August 10, 2015 - La Puente Valley County Water District

Transcription

AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
LA PUENTE VALLEY COUNTY WATER DISTRICT
112 N. FIRST STREET, LA PUENTE, CALIFORNIA
MONDAY, AUGUST 10, 2015 AT 5:30 PM
1.
CALL TO ORDER
2.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3.
ROLL CALL OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President Escalera____ Vice President Hernandez____ Director Aguirre____
Director Hastings____ Director Rojas____
4.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Anyone wishing to discuss items on the agenda or pertaining to the District may do so now. The Board may
allow additional input during the meeting. A five-minute limit on remarks is requested.
5.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Each item on the Agenda shall be deemed to include an appropriate motion, resolution or ordinance to take
action on any item. Materials related to an item on this agenda submitted after distribution of the agenda
packet are available for public review at the District office, located at the address listed above.
6.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT CALENDAR
There will be no separate discussion of Consent Calendar items as they are considered to be routine by the
Board of Directors and will be adopted by one motion. If a member of the Board, staff, or public requests
discussion on a particular item, that item will be removed from the Consent Calendar and considered
separately.
A.
Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Board of Directors held on July
27, 2015.
B.
Approval of District Expenses for the Month of July 2015.
C.
Approval of City of Industry Waterworks System Expenses for the Month of July
2015.
D.
Receive and file the District’s Water Sales Report for July 2015.
E.
Receive and file the City of Industry Waterworks System’s Water Sales Report for
July 2015.
Page 1 of 3
F.
7.
Receive and file the City of Industry Waterworks System’s Second Quarter Report
2015.
ACTION/DISCUSSION ITEMS
A.
Consideration of Resolution No. 231 Amending the Health Care Plan Benefits
provided to New Full Time Employees and Directors.
Recommendation: Adopt Resolution 231 Amending the Health Care Plan Benefits
provided to New Full Time Employees and Directors.
B.
Update on the Proposed Recycled Water System and the State Revolving Fund
Loan Application. (Staff presentation)
Recommendation: Board discretion.
C.
Discussion of Investment Options Available to the District. (Staff presentation)
Recommendation: Board discretion.
D.
Consideration of Vapor Phase Carbon Replacement Services.
Recommendation: Authorize the General Manager to proceed with Carbon
Replacement Services as Specified in the Bid from Carbon Activated Corporation.
E.
Consideration of Resolution No. 232 Supporting the Nomination of Director
Kathleen Tiegs as the Association of California Water Agencies President.
Recommendation: Adopt Resolution 232 Supporting the Nomination of Director
Kathleen Tiegs as the Association of California Water Agencies President.
F.
Consideration of Sponsorship of the La Puente Jr. All American Football and Cheer
Program Event.
Recommendation: Board Discretion.
8.
FIELD OPERATIONS REPORT
Recommendation: Receive and file report.
9.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Recommendation: Receive and file report.
10. GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT
11. OTHER ITEMS
A.
Upcoming Events.
B.
Correspondence to the Board of Directors.
C.
Newspaper Articles.
12. ATTORNEY’S COMMENTS
Page 2 of 3
13. BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
A.
Report on events attended.
B.
Other comments.
14. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
15. CLOSED SESSION
A.
Pursuant To Government Code§ 54956.9(d)(4). Pending litigation (one case)
B.
Pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9(d)(1). Existing litigation:
La Puente Valley County Water District v. Zev Neuworth, et al., LASC Case No.
BP571071.
16. REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
17. ADJOURNMENT
POSTED:
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2015
PRESIDENT JOHN P. ESCALERA PRESIDING.
Any qualified person with a disability may request a disability-related accommodation as needed to participate
fully in this public meeting. In order to make such a request, please contact Mrs. Rosa Ruehlman, Board
Secretary, at (626) 330-2126 in sufficient time prior to the meeting to make the necessary arrangements.
Note: Agenda materials are available for public inspection at the District office or visit the District’s website at
www.lapuentewater.com.
Page 3 of 3
Page 1 of 5
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
A regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the La Puente Valley County Water District was held on
Monday, July 27, 2015 at 5:30 at the District office, 112 N. First St., La Puente, California.
Meeting called to order:
President Escalera called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm.
Pledge of Allegiance
President Escalera led the meeting in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Directors present:
John Escalera, President; Henry Hernandez, Vice President; Charles Aguirre, Director; David Hastings,
Director and William Rojas, Director.
Staff present:
Greg Galindo, General Manager; Rosa Ruehlman, Board Secretary; Cesar Ortiz, Water Production
and Treatment Supervisor and Roland Trinh District Counsel.
Others Present:
No members of the public present
Adoption of Agenda:
President Escalera asked for the approval of the agenda.
Motion by Director Rojas seconded by Vice President Hernandez, that the agenda be adopted as
presented.
Motion approved by following vote:
Ayes: Escalera, Hernandez, Aguirre, Hastings and Rojas,
Nays: None.
Consent Calendar:
President Escalera asked for the approval of the Consent Calendar:
A. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Board of Directors held on July 13, 2015.
Motion by Director Aguirre, seconded by Vice President Hernandez, to approve the consent calendar
as presented.
Nays: None.
Financial Reports:
A. Summary of Cash and Investments as of June 30, 2015.
• Mr. Galindo presented the balances of cash and investments. The District’s total of cash and
investments was $2,960,296 and Industry Public Utilities Water Operations was $969,464.
Motion by Director Rojas, seconded by Director Hastings, to receive and file the Statement of the
District’s Revenues and Expenses as of June 30, 2015 as presented.
Nays: None.
B. Statement of the District’s Revenues and Expenses as of June 30, 2015.
Minutes – July 27, 2015
Page 2 of 5
•
Mr. Galindo summarized some of the revenues and expenses in the report and added that
there are some mid year adjustments to be made.
• Mr. Galindo reported that Mrs. Byerrum will be at the next Board meeting to provide a summary
on the financials and discuss the recycled water project financing and investment options.
Motion by Director Rojas, seconded by Vice President Hernandez, to receive and file the Statement of
the District’s Revenues and Expenses as of June 30, 2015 as presented.
Nays: None.
C. Statement of the Industry Public Utilities Water Operation’s Revenues and Expenses as of June
30, 2015.
• Mr. Galindo reported that Industry Public Utilities is on a fiscal year budget and this report
represents one full year of revenues and expenses. He added that there will be some yearend
adjustments to be made as we prepare for the audit.
Motion by Director Rojas, seconded by President Escalera, to receive and file the Statement of the City
of Industry Waterworks System’ Revenues and Expenses as of June 30, 2015 as presented.
Nays: None.
Action/Discussion Items:
A. Consideration of Revisions to the District’s Employee Policies and Procedures Manual Revising
the District’s Policies on Sick Leave, On-call Duty and Health Care Benefits.
• Mr. Galindo provided two options of the District’s Employee Policies and Procedures Manual
(Employee Manual) for the Board’s consideration. Option 1 of the Employee Manual includes
changes to the sick leave and on call policies. Option 2, is the same as option 1 with the added
change in Health Care Benefits for the future employees and future or appointed directors.
• Mr. Galindo shared that if the Board selects option 2, District Counsel will prepare a resolution
to formally adopt the revised Employee Manual.
Motion by Vice President Hernandez, seconded by Director Rojas to approve option 2 of the Personnel
Manual to include changes to the District benefits of future employees and future or appointed
directors.
Nays: None.
B. Consideration of New Part time Position: Assistant to the General Manager.
• Mr. Galindo shared the importance of creating a new part time position, Assistant to the
General Manager. He summarized the job description and the salary schedule. He shared a
candidate is expected to work 15 to 20 hours per week and is a temporary position at this time.
Mr. Galindo reported this will allow him more time to focus on projects such as the BPOU,
PVOU, Recycled Water Project and other upcoming projects. He will hire a skilled candidate to
assist him with letters, scheduling, phone calls, handle emails and other assigned tasks. He
recommends the Board approve the position, Assistant to the General Manager, the job
description and salary range of $18.30 to $22.90 per hour for this position.
Motion by Director Aguirre, seconded by Director Rojas to approve the new part time position,
Assistant to the General Manager, the job description and salary range of $18.30 to $22.90 per hour.
Page 3 of 5
Nays: None.
C. Consideration of Single Pass Ion Exchange Resin Replacement Services.
• Mr. Galindo reported it’s that time again to change out 425 cubic feet of resin at the Single Pass
Ion Exchange. The staff put together a notice inviting bids to three vendors and received two
responses. Staff prepared a summary of the proposals received from Calgon and Equova. He
stated Equova was the lowest bid of $224 per cubic foot. He added there is a bed life guarantee
that is also factored in the proposal and Calgon guarantees more bed volumes treated which
means more acre feet of water will be treated as compare to the other. When factoring in the
resin warantees the cost per acre foot, is slightly better even though the cost for the change-out
is more.
• Mr. Galindo stated staff would like to use Evoqua for the change-out since they provide Dowex
PSR-2. This will result in the District having the same resin in the lead and lag vessels of the
same train. He added at the next change out, expected three months, staff would like to use
Calgon resin which will result in having the same resin in lead and leg vessel of the other train.
This will provide us with a better comparison of the resin performance. He was in contact with
Calgon and their response is they will honor the quote for the next change out. He contacted
the CR’s and they are fine with this approach. He state that he will request approval from the
BPOU Committee then proceed with the change out.
Motion by Director Rojas, seconded by Director Hastings to authorize staff to enter into an agreement
for the resin replacement services with Equova.
Nays: None.
D. Consideration of memorandum of Understanding with Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal
Water District for recycled Water Project Funding. (See MOU)
• Mr. Galindo reported the full MOU has been reviewed by District Counsel and presented to
Upper District for their final approval in August. This MOU is only for phase I of the recycled
water project.
• Mr. Galindo summarized the Upper District’s and the District’s role and responsibilities.
• Mr. Galindo provided an overview of all three phases of the recycled water project, which is
estimated to cost $7.5M.
• Mr. Galindo presented an estimated project capital costs and funding summary prepared by
John Robinson Consulting that shows how the State Revolving Fund can be utilized for the
project funding. He added that Mr. Robinson will be attending a future Board meeting to review
the costs and funding options.
Motion by Director Rojas, seconded by Director Hastings to direct Staff to move forward with the MOU
once it is approved by Upper District.
Nays: None.
E. Update on the Puente Valley Operable Unit Intermediate Zone Project.
• Mr. Galindo reported the Ad hoc Committee reviewed the draft participation agreement. He
added that the Puente Basin Water Agency is still reviewing the agreement. Once all the
comments are gathered and reviewed, they will then be provided to Northrop Grumman and
followed by a phone conference between all the attorneys involved.
• Mr. Galindo shared that Northrop has some concerns about the timing of the Shallow Zone
North Remedy. He shared there are three plumes in the PVOU and the Intermediate Zone (IZ),
is the one the District will operate. He stated there is a Shallow Zone South that Northrop is
responsible for and are planning to construct a treatment system for at the same location on
Page 4 of 5
Hudson Avenue. Recent aquifer testing showed that contamination in the Shallow Zone North
may impact the IZ and shallow zone south remedy, and because that remedy belongs to
another responsible party, Northrop does not want to begin the IZ remedy until the shallow zone
north remedy is ready to go online. There is a possibility that the timing of the IZ project may
be impacted. He reported that he attended a stakeholders meeting last week and the Shallow
Zone North was discussed. He stated the EPA feels they will have a more definitive answer on
the status of the shallow zone north at the next quarterly meeting. In the meantime, during the
next quarter, Northrop will continue working on the design and work to acquire Watermaster’s
approval for this treatment facility.
Information only, no action required.
General Manager’s Report:
• Mr Galindo had no report.
Information Items:
A. Upcoming Events.
• Mrs. Ruehlman provided a memo listing all the upcoming events that have been approved by
the Board and which Directors will be attending those events.
• Mrs. Ruehlman provided information about the ACWA Conference in Indian Wells on
December 1 – 4th, 2015. Staff shared that if the Board wishes, they can attend the Tuesday and
Wednesday conference, the cost is $300 without meals or attend the full conference for $535
without meals.
• Vice President Hernandez asked that staff sign him up to attend the CSDA Conference and the
AWWA Fall Conference.
• Directors Rojas and Hastings would like staff to sign them up to attend the AWWA Fall
Conference.
B. Correspondence to the Board of Directors
• No comments made.
C. Newspaper Articles.
• News articles for the Board’s review.
Attorney comments:
• Mr. Trinh had no comments.
Board member comments:
A. Report on events attended.
• President Escalera, Directors Hastings, Rojas and Aguirre attended the SCWUA Luncheon
B. Other comments.
• No comments.
Future agenda items:
• No future items.
Adjournment:
There being no further business or comment, the meeting was adjourned 6:45 pm.
John P. Escalera, President
Rosa B. Ruehlman, Secretary
La Puente July 2015 Disbursements Check #
Payee
Amount
Description
2988
2989
2990
Mary K Partridge
CCSInteractive
Cell Business Equipment
$ 203,246.34 Lease of 335.39 AF of Water Rights
$ 54.40 Monthly Website Hosting
$ 61.40 Office Expense
2991
2992
2993
2994
2995
Chevron
CV Strategies
Eva's Cleaning Service
Highroad IT
McMaster‐Carr Supply Co
$ 2,991.22
$ 4,040.93
$ 410.00
$ 1,375.00
$ 650.81
Truck Fuel
Newsletter Development
Cleaning Service
Server Upgrade
Field Supplies
2996
2997
2998
2999
Merritt's Hardware
MJM Communications & Fire
S & J Supply Co Inc
SC Edison
$ 378.36
$ 600.00
$ 274.36
$ 2,582.82
Field Supplies
Security Monitoring Service
Field Supplies ‐ Inventory
Power Expense
3000
3001
3002
3003
Staples
Sunbelt Rentals
T‐Mobile
Underground Service Alert
$ 139.51
$ 136.89
$ 44.44
$ 68.25
Office Expense
Equipment Rental
Aircard
Line Notifications
3004
3005
Vulcan Materials Company
Weck Laboratories Inc
$ 579.09 Field Expense ‐ Sand
$ 89.00 Water Sampling
3006
3007
3008
3009
Merritt's Hardware
Konecranes
Northstar Chemical
Sierra Instruments
$ 43.31
$ 289.00
$ 1,990.15
$ 634.58
3010
3011
3012
Stetson Engineers Inc
Stetson
Engineers Inc
Univar USA Inc
Vossler & Co
$ 2,150.51
$
2 150 51 Engineering Support
Engineering Support
$ 3,513.13 Chemical Expense
$ 1,541.44 Single Pass Expense
3013
3014
Petty Cash
$ 3,623.50 Water Sampling
$ 145.53 Office/ Field Expense
3015
3016
3017
Cesar A Ortiz
ACWA/JPIA
Alliance Communications Services
$ 32.68 Field Supplies Reimbursement
$ 4,290.40 Worker's Comp 04/01/15‐06/30/15
$ 57.50 Answering Service
3018
3019
American Express
CalPERS
$ 255.07 Administrative Expenses
$ 11,224.00 Unfunded Accrued Liability Payment
3020
3021
3022
CAT Specialties Inc
Civiltec Engineering Inc
Collicutt Energy Services Inc
$ 188.03 Field & Board Shirts
$ 5,141.25 Engineering Support
$ 906.64 Generator Maintenance
3023
3024
3025
3026
3027
Ferguson Enterprises Inc #1350
Highroad IT
Industry Public Utilites
Industry Tire Service Inc
InfoSend
$ 26.15
$ 1,927.79
$ 19,852.85
$ 22.50
$ 800.39
3028
3029
Jack Henry & Associates
Klinakis Construction Co
3030
3031
3032
O'Reilly Auto Parts
Field Supplies
Quarterly Inspection & Maintenance
Chemical Expense
VOC Treatment
Field Supplies
New Computer Expense
Web Payments June 2015
Truck Maintenance
Billing Expense
$ 43.88 Web E‐Check Fee's
$ 389.63
$ 45.23
$ 708.00
$ 121.14
Exhaust Fan Installation
Field Supplies
Truck Maintenance
La Puente July 2015 Disbursements ‐ continued
Check #
Payee
Amount
Description
3033
3034
3035
Platinum Consulting Group
S & J Supply Co Inc
SC Edison
$ 1,133.75 Administrative Support
$ 4,166.46 Field Supplies ‐ Inventory
$ 3,787.37 Power Expense
3036
3037
3038
3039
3040
3041
Time Warner Cable
Time Warner Cable
USA BlueBook
Valley Vista Services
Western Water Works
$ 257.31
$ 226.81
$ 679.08
$ 288.08
$ 89.00
$ 529.26
3042
3043
3044
Grainger Inc
So Cal Industries
Time Warner Cable
$ 208.45 Field Supplies
$ 140.00 Restroom Service @ Treatment Plant
$ 516.33 Telepone Service
3045
3046
3047
3048
Waste Management of SG Valley
Staples
Superior Radiator & Air Conditioning
Petty Cash
$ 183.08
$ 43.59
$ 146.43
$ 110.97
3049
3050
So Cal Water Utilities Association
Airgas
3051
3052
Bank of America‐Visa
$ 125.00 Seminar Expense
$ 88.52 Field Supplis
$ 1,051.88 Administrative, Field & Office Expenses
3053
3054
3055
CV Strategies
G. M. Sager Construction
InfoSend
$ 4,143.93 Consumer ConfidenceReports
$ 13,167.90 Field Expense ‐ Asphalt
$
$ 124 64 Billing Expense
124.64
Billing Expense
3056
3057
Jiffy Lube My Fleet Center
Lagerlof, Senecal, Gosney & Kruse
$ 214.67 Truck Maintenance
$ 9,619.50 Attorney Fee's
3058
3059
$ 45.45 Field Supplies $ 161.25 Security Monitoring Service
3060
3061
3062
3063
Resource Building Materials
S & J Supply Co Inc
San Gabriel Valley Water Company
Staples
$ 32.04
$ 2,271.56
$ 237.87
$ 416.73
3064
3065
T‐Mobile
$ 44.46 Aircard
$ 89.00 Water Sampling
3066
3067
3068
Wesco Security Systems Inc
Western Water Works
ACWA/JPIA
$ 282.00 Security Monitoring Service ‐ Office
$ 140.16 Field Supplies ‐ Inventory
$ 27,711.34 Health Benefits August 2015
3069
3070
Lincoln National Life Insurance Company
MetLife
$ 520.51 Disability Insurance
$ 229.39 Life Insurance
3071
3072
3073
3074
3075
Premier Access Insurance Co
Pres‐Tech
San Gabriel Valley Water Association
Staples
Verizon Wireless
$ 2,490.24
$ 51.33
$ 125.00
$ 34.93
$ 641.16
3076
3077
Online
Western Water Works
Cesar A Ortiz
Home Depot Credit Services
$ 139.52 Field Supplies ‐ Inventory
$ 26.81 Clothing Allowance Reimbursement
Telephone Service
Telephone Service
Field Supplies
Trash Service
Water Sampling
Trash Service
Office Supplies
Truck Maintenance
Office/ Field Expense
Field Expense ‐ Concrete
Water Service @ Treatment Plant
Office Supplies
Dental Insurance
Field Supplies
Seminar Expense
Office Supplies
Cell Phone Service
La Puente July 2015 Disbursements ‐ continued
Check #
Payee
Amount
Description
Autodeduct Bluefin Payment Systems
Autodeduct Wells Fargo Autodeduct Wells Fargo $ 487.13 Web Merchant Fee's
$ 117.96 Bank Fee's $ 79.23 Merchant Fee's Autodeduct
Online
Online
Online
Online
$ 61.04
$ 3,514.00
$ 9,868.00
$ 3,454.11
$ 20,346.28
First Data Global Leasing
Lincoln Financial Group
CalPERS
Employment Development Dept
United States Treasury
Total Payables
$ 392,981.05
Credit Card Machine Lease
Deferred Comp
Retirement Program
California State & Unemployment Taxes Federal, Social Security & Medicare Taxes
La Puente July 2015 Payroll Check #
Employee
Amount
566
567
10690
Charles Aguirre
Charles Aguirre
David H Hastings
10691
10692
10693
10694
10695
10696
Henry P Hernandez
John P Escalera
William R Rojas
Tiffany Y Groves
Vanessa L Koyama
Albert J Vazquez
$ 123.74 $ 133.99
$ 247.47 $ 267.98
$ 123.74 $ 133.99
$ 123.74 $ 133.99
$ 123.74 $ 133.99
$ 113.75 $ 133.99
$ 446.33 $ 603.50
10697
10698
10699
Arturo B Briseno Jr
Cesar A Ortiz
Gina M Herrera
10700
10701
10702
10703
Gregory B Galindo
Keith R Bowman
Miguel A Molina
Raymond R Arvizo
10704
10705
Rosa B Ruehlman
Santiago E Loera Jr
10706
10707
Shaunte L Maldonado
William D Clark
10712
10713
10714
David H Hastings
Henry P Hernandez
John P Escalera
John P Escalera
10715
10716
10717
William R Rojas
Tiffany Y Groves
Vanessa L Koyama
10718
10719
Albert J Vazquez
Arturo B Briseno Jr
10720
10721
10722
Cesar A Ortiz
Gina M Herrera
Gregory B Galindo
10723
10724
10725
10726
10727
Keith R Bowman
Miguel A Molina
Raymond R Arvizo
Rosa B Ruehlman
Santiago E Loera Jr
10728
10729
Shaunte L Maldonado
William D Clark
Total Payroll
Gross
$ 815.61 $ 1,278.72
$ 1,894.96 $ 2,462.40
$ 1,752.26 $ 1,959.77
$ 2,724.82 $ 3,656.39
$ 2,016.39 $ 3,228.25
$ 4,067.45 $ 5,664.24
$ 2,010.25 $ 3,108.88
$ 1,992.39 $ 2,719.20
$ 2,124.57 $ 2,604.50
$ 2,406.07 $ 3,384.48
$ 1,879.02 $ 2,592.52
$ 1,406.60 $ 2,063.32
$ 2,258.25 $ 2,813.36
$ 371.22 $ 401.97
$ 123.73 $ 133.99
$
401.97
$
$ 371 22 $ 371.22
$ 237.47 $ 267.98
$ 597.88 $ 799.00
$ 616.99 $ 1,008.99
$ 1,725.64 $ 2,211.84
$ 2,544.19 $ 2,861.79
$ 2,630.17 $ 3,517.43
$ 2,098.68 $ 3,350.40
$ 4,067.45 $ 5,664.24
$ 2,124.95 $ 3,313.19
$ 2,497.22 $ 3,429.90
$ 2,070.23 $ 2,538.33
$ 2,611.73 $ 3,692.16
$ 2,002.48 $ 2,776.76
$ 1,432.27 $ 2,107.20
$ 2,897.11 $ 3,716.58
$ 59,671.78
Total July 2015 Disbursements $ 452,652.83
Invoice No. 4- 2015-07
August 1, 2015
BPOU Project Committee Members
RE: BPOU O & M Expense Reimbursement Summary
The following cost breakdown represents O & M expenses incurred by the LPVCWD for the month of July 2015.
BPOU Acct No.
Description
Invoice No.
Vendor
LP.02.01.01.00
Power
2-15-629-6188
2-03-187-2179
SC Edison
SC Edison
$
$
20,606.99
15,893.90
$
36,500.89
Subtotal
LP.02.01.02.00
Labor Costs
Jul-15
LPVCWD
$
19,812.18
$
19,812.18
LP.02.01.05.00
Transportation
Jul-15
LPVCWD - 1272 miles @ .575
$
731.40
$
731.40
LP .02.01.07.00
Water Testing
W5G0776
W5G0842
W5G0843
W5G0844
W5G0845
W5G0869
W5G0874
W5G1066
W5G1246
W5G1414
W5G1415
Weck Labs
Weck Labs
Weck Labs
Weck Labs
Weck Labs
Weck Labs
Weck Labs
Weck Labs
Weck Labs
Weck Labs
Weck Labs
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
35.00
307.00
307.00
307.00
512.00
35.00
683.50
35.00
656.50
683.50
35.00
$
3,596.50
9462; 07/15
2906; 07/15
Time Warner Cable
Time Warner Cable
$
$
216.33
300.00
$
516.33
LP.02.01.10.00
Operations Monitoring
LP.02.01.12.00
Materials/Supplies
LP.02.01.12.02
Filter Cartridges
50429
Pall Filter Specialists
$
6,468.79
$
6,468.79
LP.02.01.12.05
Hydrogen Peroxide
201/6049
Trojan UV
$
11,405.32
$
11,405.32
LP.02.01.12.06
Sodium Hypochlorite
LA141056
LA142948
LA145364
LA147628
LA149730
Univar
Univar
Univar
Univar
Univar
$
$
$
$
$
791.50
865.98
884.60
831.40
923.17
$
4,296.65
1,945.00
$
1,945.00
(62.67)
208.45
77.80
51.40
17.08
10.89 $
302.95
LP.02.01.12.11
Sodium Hydroxide
LA141867
Univar
$
LP.02.01.12.15
Other Expendables
9751712440
9777094591
2593994
4020779
9595377
87266
Grainger
Grainger
Home Depot
Home Depot
Home Depot
Merritt's Hardware
$
$
$
$
$
$
LP.02.01.12.17
Sulfuric Acid
2421
Northstar Chemical
$
1,870.90
$
1,870.90
LP.02.01.14.00
Repair/Replacement
27164
686833
142220
McCall's Meter Sales & Service
USA Bluebook
Sierra
$
$
$
1,137.00
339.54
662.99
$
2,139.53
SLS/10241680
Trojan UV
$
22,762.50
$
22,762.50
$
1,249.85
$
$
$
$
$
$
867.83
114,466.62
13,853.84
100,612.78
100,612.78
LP.02.01.15.00
Contractor Labor
LP.02.01.16.00
Direct Engineering/Legal1960-2014-04
1960-2015-102
1960-2015-103
Stetson Engineers
Stetson Engineers
Stetson Engineers
$
$
$
213.60
835.00
201.25
Other O & M
Highroad IT
MJM Communications
MJM Communications
MJM Communications
So Cal Industries
Waste Management
Total Expenditures
District Pumping Cost Deduction
Total O & M
Total Capital Cost Reimbursable
Total Cost Reimbursable
$
$
$
$
$
$
135.00
186.00
170.00
53.75
140.00
183.08
LP.02.01.80.00
1 of 1
Amount
19100
10031
10137
10356
5-Jun
9199675-2519-8
Industry July 2015 Disbursements
Check #
Payee
Amount
Description
1557
1558
1559
CCSInteractive
$ 13.60 Monthly Website Hosting
$ 2,052.50 Water Master Plan Expense
1560
1561
1562
1563
1564
1565
1566
1567
Ferguson Enterprises Inc #1350
Highroad IT
La Puente Valley County Water District
Merritt's Hardware
Peck Road Gravel
Puente Ready Mix
$ 98.38
$ 1,375.00
$ 56,369.61
$ 660.74
$ 100.71
$ 150.00
$ 700.00
$ 648.01
Field Supplies
Server Upgrade
Labor Costs June 2015
Field Supplies
Field Supplies
Asphalt & Concrete Disposal
ACE 16' Waterline Relocation
1568
1569
1570
1571
S & J Supply Co Inc
Staples
Sunbelt Rentals
Time Warner Cable
$ 5,781.93
$ 139.51
$ 180.94
$ 50.91
Office Expense
Equipment Rental
Telephone Service
1572
1573
1574
1575
Underground Service Alert
Merritt's Hardware
$ 68.25
$ 189.43
$ 191.50
$ 19.45
Line Notifications
Water Sampling
Field Supplies
1576
1577
1578
Azusa Valley Water Company
ACWA/JPIA
Alliance Communications Services
$ 306,215.00 Lease of 500 AF of Water Rights
$ 1,072.60 Worker's Comp 04/01/15‐06/30/15
$ 57.50 Answering Service
1579
1580
Collicutt Energy Services Inc
$ 5,862.00 Developer Costs ‐ Caraway
$ 4,534.95 Generator Maintenance
1581
1582
1583
Highroad IT
InfoSend
Jack Henry & Associates
$ 1,792.79 New Computers Expense
$ 554.08 Billing Expense
1584
$ 43.87 Web E‐Check Fee's
$ 170.00 Security Monitoring Service
1585
1586
1587
Platinum Consulting Group
Puente Ready Mix
Resource Building Materials
$ 20.00 Administrative Support
$ 648.01 ACE 16' Waterline Relocation
$ 41.69 ACE 16' Waterline Relocation
1588
1589
S & J Supply Co Inc
Sunbelt Rentals
1590
1591
1592
The Gas Company
Time Warner Cable
Trench Plate Rental Co
$ 1,744.71
$ 619.23
$ 21.51
$ 257.30
$ 582.60
Gas Expense
Telephone Service
1593
1594
1595
1596
1597
USA BlueBook
Airgas
Bank of America‐Visa
$ 339.54
$ 152.95
$ 126.00
$ 88.52
$ 97.24
Field Supplies
Water Sampling
Field Supplies
Administrative & Field Expenses
1598
1599
County of LA Dept of Public Works
1600
1601
1602
CV Strategies
G. M. Sager Construction
Industry Public Utility Commission
$ 489.00
$ 2,792.76
$ 7,746.00
$ 1,260.92
Permit Fee's
Consumer Confidence Reports
Industry Hills Power Expense
Industry July 2015 Disbursements ‐ continued
Check #
Payee
1603
1604
1605
InfoSend
$ 150.77 Billing Expense
$ 302.54 Web CC & Bank Fee's Reimbursement
1606
1607
1608
1609
1610
1611
1612
Peck Road Gravel
San Gabriel Valley Water Company
SC Edison
Sunbelt Rentals
Trench Plate Rental Co
$ 53.75
$ 300.00
$ 1,104.74
$ 12,865.80
$ 353.98
$ 397.75
$ 567.50
Purchased Water ‐ Salt Lake
Power Expense
1613
1614
1615
1616
Peck Road Gravel
Pres‐Tech
Staples
$ 126.00
$ 200.00
$ 51.32
$ 34.92
Water Sampling
Field Supplies
Office Supplies
1617
1618
Stetson Engineers Inc
Time Warner Cable
1619
Online
Verizon Wireless
Home Depot Credit Services
$ 1,899.00 Consumer Confidence Reports
$ 50.87 Telephone Service
$ 641.16 Cell Phone Service
Autodeduct Wells Fargo Merchant Fee's
Autodeduct First Data Global Leasing
Amount
Description
$ 79.23 Merchant Fee's $ 61.04 Credit Card Machine Lease
Total July 2015 Disbursements $ 425,570.64
WATER SALES REPORT LPVCWD 2015
LPVCWD
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
YTD
1,188
1,221
1,185
1,225
1,186
1,226
1,185
-
-
-
-
-
2,411
2015 Consumption (hcf)
33,843
52,266
31,937
68,104
37,806
64,236
39,375
-
-
-
-
-
327,567
38,646
67,979
32,813
65,786
44,866
85,193
54,764
94,412
51,184
89,011
41,783
59,021
652,667
9 Year Average Consumption
(hcf)
38,153
62,772
33,188
61,081
43,516
84,538
55,464
103,259
57,774
92,703
45,143
66,996
744,585
No. of Customers
2015 Water Sales
$
60,307
$
96,888
$
56,878
$
127,499
$
68,162
$
119,592
$
71,115
$
2014 Water Sales
$
60,291
$
119,921
$
55,246
$
116,143
$
77,129
$
151,425
$
95,525
$
2015 Service Fees
$
44,256
$
52,823
$
44,350
$
52,867
$
44,262
$
52,945
$
44,300
$
2014 Service Fees
$
44,227
$
51,189
$
43,102
$
51,252
$
42,981
$
51,386
$
42,898
2015 Hyd Fees
$
950
$
950
$
950
$
950
$
950
$
950
$
2015 DC Fees
$
301
$
6,374
$
301
$
6,435
$
301
$
6,435
2015 System Revenue
$
105,815
$
157,035
$
102,479
$
187,750
$
113,675
$
179,921
-
$
-
$
$
88,919
$
-
$
-
$
$
51,154
$
43,064
950
$
-
$
$
301
$
-
$
116,666
$
-
168,445
-
$
-
$
$
76,052
$
-
$
-
$
$
51,384
$
44,309
-
$
-
$
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
158,172
-
$
600,440
$
1,157,268
-
$
335,802
$
52,543
$
518,301
-
$
-
$
6,650
$
-
$
-
$
20,449
$
-
$
-
$
109,922
963,341
110,000 $240,000 100,000 $220,000 $200,000 90,000 $180,000 80,000 $160,000 70,000 $140,000 60,000 $120,000 50,000 $100,000 $
,
40,000 $80,000 30,000 $60,000 20,000 $40,000 10,000 $20,000 ‐
$‐
January
February
March
9 Year Average Consumption (hcf)
April
May
June
July
August
September
2014 WS and SF Revenue
October
November
December
2015 WS and SF Revenue
WATER SALES REPORT CIWS 2015
CIWS
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
YTD
953
852
951
854
953
848
953
-
-
-
-
-
1,805
46,277
23,664
49,889
27,448
58,234
28,807
64,969
-
-
-
-
-
299,288
60,857
28,585
51,593
29,800
67,225
36,695
83,072
39,554
79,633
38,042
66,583
27,770
609,409
9 Year Average
Consumption (hcf)
53,596
27,519
52,498
28,341
64,172
37,738
81,319
46,765
83,357
40,923
66,675
30,669
613,571
No. of Customers
2015 Water Sales
$
97,004
$
51,965
$
112,308
$
60,639
$
132,402
$
63,559
2014 Water Sales
$
118,796
$
54,742
$
108,256
$
61,733
$
142,942
$
77,137
2015 Service Fees
$
50,875
$
43,653
$
56,595
$
43,639
$
56,372
$
43,648
2014 Service Fees
$
45,451
$
34,490
$
51,107
$
38,925
$
50,951
$
38,804
2015 Hyd Fees
$
1,575
$
225
$
1,575
$
225
$
1,575
$
225
2015 DC Fees
$
8,897
$
2,173
$
10,608
$
2,173
$
10,997
$
$
158,350
$
98,015
$
181,086
$
106,675
$
201,345
$
2015 System Revenue
$
148,341
$
-
$
178,284
$
83,409
$
56,253
$
-
$
51,127
$
39,703
$
1,575
$
2,001
$
10,840
109,433
$
217,010
$
-
$
-
$
$
79,836
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
351,034
$
51,087
$
39,194
$
51,002
$
39,008
$
530,849
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
6,975
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
47,688
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$ 1,071,913
170,302
-
$
141,369
-
57,236
$
666,216
$ 1,274,042
100,000 $240,000 $230,000 $220,000 $210,000 $200,000 $190,000 $180,000 $170,000 $160,000 $150,000 $140,000 $130,000 $120,000 $110,000 $100,000 $90,000 $80,000 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $‐
90,000 80,000 70,000 60,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 ‐
January
February
March
9 Year Average Consumption (hcf)
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
2014 WS & SF Revenue
November
December
2015 WS & SF Revenue
Memo
To:
Paul Phillips, City Manager
John Ballas, City Engineer
Cc:
La Puente Valley County Water District Board of Directors
From: Greg B. Galindo, General Manager
Date: August 5, 2015
Re:
City of Industry Waterworks System – 1st and 2nd Quarterly Report 2015
In accordance with the CIWS Operation and Management Agreement between the City and the District,
the District provides the following City of Industry Waterworks System Quarterly Report. The report
represents calendar year to date information along with the current status of various items listed under the
appropriate heading.
Administrative/Financial
 CIWS’s UHET Program – The 2015-16 Water Operations Budget appropriates $25,000 for
conservation and public outreach activities. The majority of this funding is designated for the UHET
Program, which equates to approximately 100 UHETs. A majority of the 100 toilets have been
reserved by eligible customers and will be delivered within the next quarter.
 Update to the Water Master Plan – The 2015-16 Water Operations Budget appropriates $45,000 to
complete an update to the Master Plan. In April 2015 the City authorized a professional services
agreement with Civiltec Engineering to complete this work. Civiltec has begun work on the update to
the Master Plan. District staff is supporting this effort by providing the information/data requested.
Staff anticipates a draft report by the end of 2015.
 2014-15 Fiscal Year Budget –A report of revenue and expenses as of June 30, 2015 is attached for your
review as Attachment 1. A few yearend entries to accrue expenses are still required and not
represented on the attached report.
 Fund Disbursements – For your reference a list of disbursements from the CIWS water operations fund
for the past two quarters (by month) has been provided as Attachment 2.
 2015-16 Fiscal Year Budget – District staff prepared and submitted to the City a Water Operations
fiscal year budget for 2015-16 in May 2015.
Distribution, Supply and Production
 Field Operations Summary – A summary report of the field activities for calendar year 2015 is
provided as Attachment 3.
 Production Summary – The overall production for fiscal year 2014-15 to meet the needs of the CIWS
Customers was 1,323.23. This is 11% less than 2013-14 fiscal year. The fiscal yearend production
report is provided as Attachment 4.
 CIWS and LPVCWD Water Exchange – As of the end of June 2015, 0.86 acre-feet is due from CIWS
to LPVCWD. The summary of the water exchanges from January 2009 to June 2015 is attached for
your reference as Attachment 5.
Page 1 of 2
 MSGB Groundwater Levels – On July 24, 2014 the Baldwin Park key well level was 176.4 feet asl,
which is 10 feet lower than one year ago. Watermaster’s report on current hydrologic conditions has
also been enclosed for your reference as Attachment 6.
Water Quality / Compliance
 District Staff has collected all required water quality samples from the distribution system for the 201415 fiscal year; approximately 372 samples were collected. All results met State and Federal drinking
water quality regulations.
 All water quality samples were collected from Well No. 5, as required by the SGVWC’s B-5 Treatment
Plant Permit. These samples were collected by San Gabriel Valley Water Company staff.
 CIWS Inspection by DDW– The State Department of Water Resources Division of Drinking Water (DDW) performed an inspection of the system in January 2015. A report from DDW on the inspection
has been received and is attached for your reference as Attachment 7. District staff is in the process of
preparing the items requested by DDW.
Personnel
 As of June 30, 2015, the District has 8 full time field employees, 4 full time office/administrative
employees and 2 part time office employees.
 A summary of the hourly rates for each District employee as of June 2015 has been provided as
Attachment 8.
 Safety meetings have been held monthly for all employees, along with weekly tailgate safety meetings
for field employees.
Capital / Special Projects
 4th Avenue and Lomitas Avenue Piping Improvements – This improvement consisted of connecting
the existing 16” waterline on Lomitas Avenue located on the north side of the street to an existing 6”
waterline on the south side of the street by constructing an 8” waterline connection. This work was
needed to improve the fire flow availability for waterlines on 4th Avenue south of Lomitas Avenue.
The connection was constructed in April 2015 by the City’s On Call Water System Contractor under
the provisions of COI Project No. 415. The work was coordinated and inspected by District staff.
 ACE Grade Separation Project – Phase 1 of the 16” waterline relocation at Valley Blvd and Workman
Mill Road has been completed. This work was completed by the City’s On Call Water System
Contractor under the provisions of COI Project No. 415. This work was coordinated and inspected by
District staff. Phase 2 will be initiated after Los Angeles County Public Works completes the
relocation of the sewer and storm drain in the area.
 Forestview Avenue Waterline Extension and Fire Hydrant Installation – In July, the City authorized the
purchase of materials and services for the installation of a 6 “ waterline extension and fire hydrant for a
development at 754 Forestview Avenue. This project is funded by the developer. District staff has
acquired materials and will begin construction the week of August 10, 2015.
If you have any questions on the information provided or would like additional information, please contact
me at your earliest convenience.
Page 2 of 2
RESOLUTION NO. 231
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OF THE LA PUENTE VALLEY COUNTY WATER DISTRICT
AMENDING THE HEALTH CARE PLAN BENEFITS PROVIDED
TO NEW FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES AND DIRECTORS
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the La Puente Valley County Water District (the
“District”) provides health care plan benefits for medical, dental, and vision to all of its full-time
regular employees and the members of its Board of Directors;
WHEREAS, the District desires to continue providing excellent health care plan benefits
to its full-time employees and Directors, while also maintaining a manageable budget for said
benefits in the face of rising health care costs;
WHEREAS, the District has identified that minimally reducing the health care plan
benefits afforded to new full-time employees and Directors of the District provides an effective
avenue for the District to reduce costs both in the present and in the future;
WHEREAS, the District recognizes the importance of health care benefits and desires to
continue to provide optimal health care plan options to its new full-time employees and
Directors, and not impact the health care plan benefits currently afforded to its full-time
employees and Directors;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the La Puente
Valley County Water District hereby amends the health care plan benefits provided to new fulltime employees of the District hired after June 30, 2015, and new Directors elected or appointed
to a new or non-incumbent term after that same date, to a maximum coverage amount of
$1,500 per month for health care insurance premiums for health, dental, and vision insurance
through the District’s group plan, regardless of the particular plan chosen or number of enrollees
the new full-time employee or Director seeks to enroll.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this maximum coverage benefit of $1,500 per month
for health care insurance premiums shall be adjusted annually beginning January 1, 2016 by a
percentage equal to the cost of living adjustment that may be adopted by the Board of Directors
as part of its annual consideration thereof.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of La Puente Valley County
Water District does hereby revise its Employee Policies and Procedures Manual to reflect the
change enacted by this Resolution.
ADOPTED, SIGNED AND APPROVED this 10th day of August, 2015
Ayes:
Noes:
Absent:
Abstain:
John Escalera, President
Board of Directors
ATTEST:
Rosa B. Ruehlman, Board Secretary
G:\LAPUENTE\Resolutions\Health Care Plan Changes 2015.doc
EMPLOYEE POLICIES
AND
PROCEDURES MANUAL
Final August 10, 2015
EMPLOYEE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
MANUAL
Table of Contents
I.
PREAMBLE AND TITLE……..……………………………..…...…………………………….. 4
II.
PURPOSE……….…………………………………………………...……………………………4
III. AUTHORITY AND ADMINISTRATION………………………………………….…………….4
IV. DEFINITIONS…………………………………………………………………….………………4
V.
EMPLOYMENT………………………………………..…………………………………………5
A. At-Will Employment ................................................................................................................. 5
B. Hiring of Employees .................................................................................................................. 5
C. Introductory Period .................................................................................................................... 6
D. Periodic Employee Evaluation ................................................................................................... 6
E. Normal Work Day ..................................................................................................................... 6
F. On-Call Duty ............................................................................................................................. 7
G. Alcohol and Drug Free Work Place ........................................................................................... 8
H. Smoking .................................................................................................................................... 9
I.
Outside Employment ................................................................................................................. 9
J. Job Injury .................................................................................................................................. 9
K. Disciplinary Action.................................................................................................................... 9
L. Standards of Conduct .............................................................................................................. 12
M. Illness and Injury Prevention Program ..................................................................................... 13
N. Dress Code and Safety Equipment ........................................................................................... 13
O. Electronic Communications ..................................................................................................... 14
P. Cell Phone Usage .................................................................................................................... 14
Q. Anti-Fraud ............................................................................................................................... 14
R. Termination and Resignation ................................................................................................... 14
VI. COMPENSATION……………………………………………………………………………...15
A. Employee Compensation ......................................................................................................... 15
B. Overtime Pay........................................................................................................................... 15
C. On-Call Pay ............................................................................................................................. 15
D. Timekeeping............................................................................................................................ 16
E. Certification Bonus .................................................................................................................. 16
F. Certification and Educational Reimbursement.......................................................................... 16
G. Reimbursement for District Related Business........................................................................... 17
VII. BENEFITS………………………………..…………………………………………….……….17
A. Vacation .................................................................................................................................. 17
B. Sick Leave ............................................................................................................................... 17
C. Holidays .................................................................................................................................. 19
D. Leave of Absence .................................................................................................................... 20
E. Compassionate Leave .............................................................................................................. 20
F. Leave Related to Military Service ............................................................................................ 20
G. HIPPA..................................................................................................................................... 20
H. COBRA .................................................................................................................................. 20
I.
Jury Duty................................................................................................................................. 21
J. Time off to Vote ...................................................................................................................... 21
K. Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance ....................................................................................... 21
L. Life Insurance .......................................................................................................................... 22
M.
Disability Insurance.............................................................................................................. 22
N. Retirement Benefits and Deferred Compensation Plan ............................................................. 22
O. Retiree Health, Dental and Vision Benefits .............................................................................. 23
P. Use of Vehicles........................................................................................................................ 24
Q. Family Care and Medical Leave (CFRA Leave) and Pregnancy Disability Leave .................... 24
R. Return to Work ....................................................................................................................... 25
VIII. REQUEST FOR REASONABLE CCOMMODATION……………………………………..…25
IX. NON-DISCRIMINATION AND COMPLAINT ROCEDURE………...…………….……..….25
A. Nondiscrimination Policy......................................................................................................... 25
B. Complaint Procedure ............................................................................................................... 26
X.
WORKPLACE VIOLANCE……………………………………………………………………27
XI. ANTI-HARASSMENT AND COMPLAINT PROCEDURE……………….………………….27
A. Anti-Harassment Policy……………………………………………………………………...27
B. Complaint Procedure………………………………………………………………………...28
XII. EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF EMPLOYEE
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL ................................................................................. 30
EMPLOYEE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL
I.
PREAMBLE AND TITLE
This Manual shall be known as the La Puente Valley County Water District Employee Policies
and Procedures Manual (the "Manual"). This Manual supersedes the Personnel Manual that was
adopted by the Board of Directors on July 26, 2005 and all subsequently adopted amendments thereto.
II.
PURPOSE
It is the objective of the La Puente Valley County Water District (the “District”) to provide fair
and equitable personnel management. This Manual is intended to ensure uniform and fair
treatment of applicants for employment at the District and to define obligations, rights, privileges,
benefits and prohibitions for all employees of the District.
The Board of Directors of the District reserves the right to amend, modify or delete any and all
provisions contained in this Manual and shall comply with Government Code Section 54950 et seq.
(the "Ralph M. Brown Act") as required.
III.
AUTHORITY AND ADMINISTRATION
A. The Board of Directors of the La Puente Valley County Water District has approved the
provisions of this Manual. The Board shall approve all additions, amendments and revisions
to the personnel policies and procedures contained in this Manual.
B. The General Manager is responsible for implementing, administering and ensuring
compliance with the provisions of this Manual. In the event any provision of this Manual
needs clarification, the General Manager may issue administrative instructions or guidelines
clarifying the intent of said provision as adopted by the Board of Directors. The General
Manager may develop and enforce procedures, consistent with this Manual, to facilitate its
implementation.
IV.
DEFINITIONS
For purposes of this Manual the following definitions apply:
A. Board of Directors or “Board” - means the Board of Directors of the La Puente Valley
County Water District.
B. Department Head - means those employees who are directly responsible to the General
Manager for the Supervision of the Field Operations and Customer Service/Accounting
Departments, respectively.
C. “District” - means the La Puente Valley County Water District which is formed pursuant to
the County Water District Law (Water Code Sections 30000, et seq.).
D. Exempt/Executive Employee - means the General Manager and designated Department
Heads. These designated employees are paid on a salary basis for work performed with no
overtime pay. As salaried senior officials of the District, executive personnel are expected
to work those hours necessary to complete their duties and responsibilities.
E. Full-Time Regular Employee - means all employees appointed by the General Manager for
employment on a regular basis and work 40 hours per week.
F. General Manager - means the General Manager of the District, duly appointed by a majority
vote of the Board of Directors.
G. Non-Exempt/Part-Time Regular Employee - means any employee who is paid wages for each
hour of work performed and is eligible to receive overtime pay and sick leave according to
law. These employees are assigned a work schedule of less than 30 hours per week. Such
employees are not entitled to District benefits.
H. Temporary Employee - means any employee hired by the General Manager for a limited
period of time, paid by the hour, is not provided any District benefits, and is eligible to receive
overtime pay according to law.
V.
EMPLOYMENT
A.
At-Will Employment
Employment with the District is “at-will.” Employment is not guaranteed for any length of time and
may be terminated at any time, with or without cause, or with or without notice, by the District
or by the employee, subject to applicable law. In as much as employment is at will, the guidelines in
this Manual do not create any contractual or other rights (expressed or implied) for any employee.
Only the Board of Directors has the authority to enter into any agreement for employment for any
specified period of time for any employee of the District.
B. Hiring of Employees
1.
The District will comply with all policies of the United States and the State of
California which protect and safeguard the right and opportunity of all persons to
seek, obtain, and hold employment without discrimination because of race, religious
creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, genetic
information, physical handicap, national origin, or ancestry.
2.
In accordance with Section 30540(a) of the California Water Code, the Board shall
appoint by majority vote a General Manager, whose employment may be secured
by an Employment Agreement. In accordance with Sections 30580 and 30581 of the
California Water Code, the General Manager shall hire new employees for those
positions approved by the Board pursuant to the approved salary resolution.
3.
Prior to commencing employment with the District, applicants for safety sensitive
field positions will undergo and must pass a pre-employment physical
examination, alcohol and drug use screening, and a background investigation.
Applicants for office positions, are not safety sensitive positions, but must pass a
background investigation before commencing work with the District. All offers to
hire new employees shall be made subject to the condition that the prospective
employee successfully passes a physical exam, alcohol and drug screening, (if
applicable) and background investigations to the reasonable satisfaction of the District.
4.
The District may, in its sole discretion, abolish any position or terminate employment
due to lack of work, lack of funds, reorganization, or other legitimate reason or business
purpose. The employee holding such position or employment may be laid off
without disciplinary action and without right of hearing or appeal. Employees to be
laid off shall be given at least 14 calendar days’ prior written notice.
5.
Temporary Employees may be hired by the General Manager. The General Manager
shall determine the term of employment, for any such Temporary Employee the
amount of hours to be worked in a day or week, and the compensation the employee
will receive.
C. Introductory Period
1.
Newly hired or re-hired Full-Time Employee will serve an introductory period of six
(6) months. Upon conclusion of the introductory period, the employee’s performance
will be evaluated. The General Manager may extend an employee's introductory
period upon written notice to the employee.
2.
Passing the introductory period with a satisfactory evaluation is a requirement for
continued employment with the District. An introductory employee may be
terminated from his/her employment with the District at any time during the
introductory period without cause or notice, or the right to a hearing or appeal.
3.
Employees terminated during their introductory period shall not be entitled to nor be
paid for sick leave or floating holidays. However, introductory employees will accrue
vacation and sick leave at the normal rate during the introductory period. Accrued
vacation time shell be available for use should their employment continue beyond the
introductory period or be paid out upon termination.
4.
If an employee is promoted to a higher level position, that employee will be
required to serve a six (6) month introductory period in the new position. The General
Manager shall determine upon completion of the introductory period whether the
employee has met the performance expectation in the new position. The General
Manager may determine if an employee has not done so and demote that employee
to his/her previous position if such position is available, or an equivalent position for
which the employee is qualified if such position is available, and such decision and
action shall not be considered as discipline under Subsection K, below, and shall not
entitle the employee to the right of notice, hearing or appeal.
5.
A promoted employee will continue to accrue vacation, sick leave and is eligible
for floating holidays as provided elsewhere herein.
6.
Successful completion of the introductory period does not assure an employee of
continued employment with the District.
D. Periodic Employee Evaluation
The General Manager and the respective Department Heads shall evaluate the performance of
each employee upon completion of the introductory period. Performance evaluations will be
conducted annually thereafter.
E. Normal Work Day
The District office will be open for business Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.,
except for holidays as provided elsewhere herein. District field operation business hours are
between 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for holidays as provided elsewhere
herein. The General Manager shall determine the work schedules for employees, and may designate
alternate work day hours on a temporary basis when the District operations make such designations
desirable.
1.
Each office employee will have one (1) hour off for lunch each working day, subject to
the reasonable scheduling requirements of the District. Each field operation
employee will normally have one-half (1/2) hour off for lunch each day, subject to
the reasonable scheduling requirements of the District.
2.
Break periods not exceeding ten (10) minutes, one during each work period of three
hours or more (e.g., once in the morning and once in the afternoon), shall be
provided to employees.
3.
Daily hours of work will be assigned by each employee's Department Head or the
General Manager as required to meet the requirements of that Department.
4.
Overtime will be paid as provided in this Manual, as provided by applicable law.
5.
Punctuality is expected at all times and a lack of same is grounds for disciplinary action.
F. On-Call Duty
1.
All full-time regular field operation personnel (hereinafter referred to as “field
employees”) are required to participate in On-Call duty, which is an essential
function of the job. It is assigned on a rotating basis by the General Manager or
his/her designated Department Head.
a.
As to distribution systems and customer service related issues: One (1) field
employee will be provided with a radio equipped District vehicle and a
District cellular phone. The employee assigned this type of On-Call duty will
be the first person contacted during non-regular business hours for questions
and emergencies related to the distribution system and customer service issues,
and assist with production and treatment system related issues when needed.
Accordingly, the On-Call employee on duty must be readily available for
contact by telephone -and able to respond within 30 minutes to the service call
location. This On-Call employee shall possess at least a Grade 1 Treatment
Plant Operator license and a Grade 1 Distribution Operator license issued by the
State of California.
b.
As to production and treatment systems related issues: One (1) field employee
will be provided with a radio equipped District vehicle, a District laptop
computer and District cellular phone. The employee assigned this type of OnCall duty will be the first person contacted during non-regular business hours
for questions and emergencies related to the production and treatment systems.
The employee will also assist with distribution system and customer service
related issues when needed. Accordingly, the On-Call employee on duty must be
readily available for contact by telephone, and able to respond within fifteen
(15) minutes to any SCADA system alarm by remotely accessing the SCADA
system to acknowledge the alarm and assess the issue. If the issue cannot be
resolved via remote access, then the On-Call employee must respond to the
problem site within one hour thereafter. The employee will be required from
time to time, as directed by his Supervisor, to remotely access the SCADA
system to assess operations. This On-Call employee shall possess at least a
Grade 2 Treatment Plant Operator license and a Grade 2 Distribution Operator
license issued by the State of California.
2.
All On-Call duty personnel shall wear a District uniform at all times when
conducting District business.
3.
For personnel assigned to the distribution systems and customer service related issues,
On- Call duty cycles begin each Wednesday evening at the close of business and
end the following Wednesday at the opening of business.
4.
For personnel assigned to the production and treatment systems, On-Call duty cycles
begin each Wednesday evening at the close of business and end the following
Wednesday at the opening of business. On-Call duty may also be assigned to cover
District Holidays as needed.
5.
All On-Call personnel shall be compensated for such work as provided in Section
VI(C) of this Manual.
G. Alcohol and Drug Free Work Place
The District recognizes that behavior resulting from the use of alcohol and/or drugs may
detrimentally affect the safety and work performance of its work force, as well as the health and
welfare of its employees. In recognition of the District's responsibility to maintain a safe work
environment, the District strictly prohibits any form of substance abuse. The term “substance abuse”
includes, but is not limited to, the use or possession of illegal drugs, alcohol, or abuse of prescription
drugs, which could impair an employee’s work performance and/or ability to perform his or her job
safely.
1.
All Employees of the District shall not:
a.
Be at work, drive a vehicle on District business, or operate any District
equipment while under the influence of any amount of alcohol or illegal drugs
which would result in a positive alcohol or drug test;
b.
Ingest alcohol, possess open containers of alcohol, or use or possess illegal drugs
of any kind while on duty; and shall not manufacture, distribute, dispense,
sell or provide illegal drugs of any kind to any person while on duty. If the
use by an employee of a prescription drug may create an unsafe working
condition, this fact must be reported by the employee to his/her Department
Head prior to reporting to work. Employees whose job performance is so
restricted may be subject to reassignment, medical examination, or other
reasonable actions as determined by the General Manager or Department Head.
2.
Pre-Placement/Post Offer Controlled Substance Testing
Any offer of employment for safety sensitive field positions will be conditioned upon
the applicant passing a drug screening analysis. The General Manager shall
coordinate the drug screening process.
3.
Reasonable Suspicion Testing
a.
Field Employees are subject to drug and alcohol testing when there is a
reasonable suspicion that the employee has violated the rules set forth herein
against drug and alcohol use. Such Reasonable Suspicion Testing shall
include any drug and alcohol testing subsequent to any employment related
injury requiring medical attention or incident involving damage to any District
property.
b.
Field Employees are subject to drug and alcohol testing when they are involved
in an accident involving either: 1) the operation of a District vehicle; or 2)
physical injury to a District employee or member of the public.
c.
When a field employee has previously been found in violation of this Section
V (G), that employee may be required to submit to periodic unannounced
drug and alcohol testing as a condition of remaining in or returning to District
employment.
H. Smoking
I.
1.
Smoking is strictly prohibited at all times while carrying out District work assignments.
2.
Smoking is not permitted in any workplace, meeting room, classroom, warehouse
facility or restroom of the District. Smoking is not permitted in any District vehicle.
Outside Employment
The District is entitled to the unqualified loyalty of its employees. District employees shall
positively represent the District; and the actions of its employees will not conflict with the best
interests of the District. No employee of the District shall therefore be permitted to carry on
concurrently with their employment with the District, any private business or undertaking which may
detrimentally affect the time or quality of work for the District or create a conflict of interest with the
District, unless expressly authorized in writing in advance by the General Manager.
J.
Job Injury
1.
Injuries suffered by employees while in the course of performing work for the District
are covered by the District's workers’ compensation insurance provider. All such job
injuries shall be immediately reported to the employee's Department Head or
General Manager, who shall forthwith complete documentation of the injury and
forward it to the Office Administrator who will submit an “Employee’s Claim for
Compensation Benefits” form (DWC Form 1).
2.
Workers Compensation will be supplemented as follows:
a.
An employee will receive supplemental District pay for a period of up to three
(3) days, as determined by the General Manager, so that said employee will
receive equivalent regular pay for the maximum three (3) day period. After
the maximum three (3) day period, the employee will be eligible to receive
benefits under the District’s workers’ compensation insurance policy, should
the injury prevent the employee from returning to work for more than three (3)
days.
b.
The General Manager may grant supplemental District pay for longer periods
of time than provided above.
c.
Employees may elect to use either sick leave or vacation to supplement
Workers' Compensation benefits in order to receive an equivalent regular
paycheck, once the District payments as provided for in Subsections "a"
and/or "b" herein have been exhausted. Said sick leave or vacation will be
used in half (1/2) hour increments.
d.
The District will attempt to accommodate an employee’s return to work
after suffering a work related injury on a case by case basis depending on
the circumstances of the injury, the District’s reasonable needs and, if
applicable availability of light duty work. The General Manager shall
make such determination in his or her sole discretion.
K. Disciplinary Action
1.
2.
The District may discipline or terminate any employee for cause at any time.
Disciplinary action includes, but is not limited, to the following:
a.
Oral Warning. A formal discussion with an employee, usually by the
employee’s immediate Department Head or General Manager, about
performance or conduct problems, the need for the employee to improve and
what improvement is expected. The Department Head shall make a written
record of the warning which shall be placed and maintained in the employee’s
personnel file as an “oral warning.”
b.
Written Reprimand. A formal written notice, usually by the employee’s
immediate Department Head or General Manager, to the employee regarding
performance or conduct problems, the need for the employee to improve and
what improvement is expected. The written reprimand shall be filed in the
employee’s personnel file, along with a signed acknowledgment of receipt of
the written reprimand from the employee. The employee may respond in
writing to the written reprimand within seven (7) days, which response, if any,
shall be placed in the personnel file with the written reprimand.
c.
Suspension. An involuntary leave of absence without pay.
d.
Demotion. Reduction from one position to another having a lower salary range
for disciplinary purposes. (Demotions resulting from organizational changes
and layoffs are not disciplinary actions.)
e.
Discharge. Termination of employment.
Suspensions of Three (3) Days or Less.
The General Manager has discretion to suspend any employee for a period of three (3)
days or less, and the suspended employee shall have no right of appeal. In such cases,
a written notice will be given to and discussed with the employee. A copy of such
notice will be placed in the employee’s personnel file, along with a signed
acknowledgement of receipt thereof by the employee. The notice shall include the
specific charges upon which the action is based, identification of the rule, regulation,
or policy violated, and the duration of the suspension. The employee may respond in
writing to such notice within seven (7) days, which response, if any, shall be placed in
the personnel file with the notice of suspension.
3.
Suspensions of More than Three (3) Days, Demotion, or Discharge.
a.
Prior to suspending an employee for more than three (3) days, demoting, or
discharging an employee, a written notice of such proposed disciplinary
action shall be delivered to the employee personally, or by certified mail to
the employee’s last known address, at least five (5) business days prior to the
effective date of the proposed disciplinary action. Such written notice shall
contain:
1.
A description of the proposed disciplinary action and its effective date(s);
2.
a statement of the reasons for such proposed disciplinary action,
including the acts or omissions on which the proposed disciplinary action
is based;
4.
3.
copies of documents upon which the proposed disciplinary action is
based, if any;
4.
a statement of the employee's right to respond, either orally or in
writing, prior to the effective date of such proposed action;
5.
a statement of the employee's right to representation; and
6.
a statement of the employee's right
proposed disciplinary action become final.
to
appeal
should
such
b.
Prior to the effective date of such suspension, demotion, or discharge, an
employee will be given an opportunity to respond either orally or in writing, at
the employee's option, to his or her Department Head or General Manager.
c.
If an employee responds to a notice of proposed disciplinary action, the
proposed disciplinary action shall be stayed for two (2) business days, at
which time the employee shall receive written notice either sustaining,
modifying, or canceling the proposed disciplinary action.
d.
Should a proposed suspension, demotion, or discharge become final, an
employee shall have the right to appeal such action pursuant to Section V(K)(4),
below.
e.
An employee shall be given reasonable time off without loss of pay to attend a
pre- disciplinary meeting and/or interview pursuant to Section V(K)(4), below.
Disciplinary Appeals
a.
A suspension of more than three (3) days, demotion, or discharge may be
appealed to the General Manager. The appeal shall be presented to the
General Manager within five (5) calendar days following the employee's receipt
of the written notice of such discipline under Section V(K)(3)(a), above, or
Section V(K)(3)(c) should the employee respond to the proposed
disciplinary action pursuant to Section V(K)(3)(b). All disciplinary appeals
shall be in writing, and shall be signed by the employee.
b.
The General Manager shall initiate an investigation on the suspension that
the General Manager deems appropriate in his or her sole discretion, grant the
employee the opportunity to be heard by the General Manager and to submit
any documentary evidence the employee desires to have reviewed during the
appeal.
c.
The General Manager shall render a decision sustaining, reducing or rescinding
an appealed disciplinary action.
If an action to suspend or demote is
reduced or rescinded, the appellant shall be entitled to restoration of pay and/or
benefits in a manner consistent with the General Manager's decision. If an
action to discharge is reduced to a suspension, the appellant shall be restored to
his or her position or a similar position in the same department, subject to
forfeiture of pay and benefits for all or a portion of the period of time the
appellant was suspended. If an action to discharge is rescinded, the appellant
shall be reinstated to his or her former position or a similar position in the
same department, and shall receive pay and benefits for the entire period of
time he or she was removed from duty.
d.
The decision o f the General Manager is subject to appeal by the disciplined
employee to the Board o f Directors. The Board of Directors will not conduct a
hearing or a new investigation. The Board of Directors will review the record on
appeal and render a decision based thereon, sustaining, overturning, or
modifying the General Manager’s decision. The decis ion of the Board of
Directors is final.
L. Standards of Conduct
Disciplinary actions are imposed primarily for corrective purposes and to address deficiencies in work
performance. The following is a nonexclusive list of the common causes of disciplinary action:
1.
Actions contrary to the rules and regulations of the District, including those contained
in this Manual.
2.
Violation of any Federal, State, or local law directly impacting the employee's fitness
for employment.
3.
Using, possessing, dealing, distributing, or being under the influence of alcohol,
illegal narcotics, or non-prescription or unlawful drugs while on duty or at work
locations, or reporting to work or operating District vehicles or equipment under
the influence of alcohol, illegal narcotics, or any non-prescription or unlawful drug.
4.
Failure or refusal to comply with a lawful order or to accept a reasonable and
proper assignment from an authorized Department Head or General Manager.
5.
Inefficiency, dishonesty, incompetence, carelessness, or negligence in the performance
of duties.
6.
Sexual harassment or other unlawful harassment of another employee, customer or
any other individual.
7.
Chronic or excessive absenteeism, whether excused or unexcused, or
inconsistent attendance.
8.
Rude or discourteous treatment of other employees, customers or any other individual.
9.
Inattention to duty, tardiness, carelessness or negligence in the care and handling of
District property.
10.
Loss or misuse of District funds.
11.
Improper or unauthorized use of District vehicles or equipment or misappropriation
of supplies.
12.
Misuse of sick leave, including using sick leave under false pretenses.
13.
Furnishing false information to obtain employment, or falsification of time cards or
other District records and reports.
14.
Absence from duty without proper authorization, failure to report after leave of absence
has ended or been disapproved, revoked, or canceled.
15.
Acceptance of any bribe, gratuity, kickback, or other item of value when such is
given in the hope or expectation of receiving preferential treatment.
16.
Outside work not previously authorized in writing by the General Manager or such
work that creates a conflict of interest with District work, or detracts from the
efficiency of the employee in the effective performance of District functions.
17.
Failure to obtain or maintain necessary qualification, certificate, or license, which is
required as a condition of employment.
18.
A record of unsafe driving for those employees required to operate District vehicles,
as determined by the General Manager in his or her discretion.
19.
Refusal to submit to drug and alcohol tests when directed to do so by District
Management pursuant to Section V(G) of this Manual.
20.
Testing positive for the presence of a controlled substance or alcohol pursuant to Section
V(G) of this Manual.
21.
Failure to immediately report an accident or injury to the Department Head or General
Manager.
22.
Failure to immediately report breakdowns, improper or unsafe operation of equipment
or facilities.
23.
Working overtime without proper authorization.
24.
Failure to use or wear proper safety gear or equipment.
M. Illness and Injury Prevention Program
An injury and illness prevention program is a proactive process to help employers find and fix
workplace hazards before workers are hurt. The purpose of this program is to prevent illnesses,
injuries and fatalities in the workplace. A copy of the current Illness and Injury Prevention Program
may be obtained from the Office Administrator.
N. Dress Code and Safety Equipment
1.
The District will provide all full-time field employees with District shirts to be worn
while on duty. Employees will regularly clean and maintain the shirts. The District
will also provide all field employees with necessary District owned safety
equipment (e.g. safety vests, hard hats, etc.), which will be properly cared for by the
employee.
2.
Field employees must turn in District shirts prior to receiving new District shirts.
3.
Field employees shall be granted an allowance of up to $350 per year for the purchase
of steel-toe boots and pants. Employees must submit itemized receipts to the Office
Administrator in order to receive reimbursement for said allowance.
4.
All employees shall present a clean and neat appearance at all times.
5.
Office personnel will dress in a manner consistent with good business practices.
6.
No employee shall have visible tattoos on the head, face or neck. Any visible
tattoos cannot be obscene, sexually explicit, discriminatory as to sex, race, religion,
national origin, or be extremist in nature or gang related. Any tattoos in violation of
this Section must be covered with clothing or a bandage while at work, or must be
removed.
7.
No objects, articles, jewelry or ornamentation of any kind shall be attached to or
through the skin if visible on any body part including the tongue or any part of the
mouth, except that an employee may wear one pair of earrings in the ears as long as
the earrings do not pose a safety risk to the employee during the normal performance
of his or her duties. Any other non-conforming piercing jewelry shall be removed
while the employee is on duty.
O. Electronic Communications
The District uses various forms of electronic communications including, but not limited to,
communications via computers, email, telephones, mobile phones, smart phones, text messaging,
internet, radios, and PDAs. All such electronic communications are official District’s records and
are the property of the District. The District reserves the right to access and disclose all messages
transmitted through its system or equipment for any purpose. Communications transmitted over
said forms of electronic communications should be limited to District business and District related
activities or the accomplishment of business related tasks.
P. Cell Phone Usage
The use of cellular phones while operating a motorized vehicle while conducting any business
relates activity of the District is prohibited. Under no circumstances may a driver initiate or
answer a cellular phone call or text message while operating a motor vehicle while conducting District
business.
Q. Anti-Fraud
1.
The District and its employees must, at all times, comply with all applicable laws
and regulations. Employees uncertain about the application or interpretation of
any legal requirements should refer the matter to their Department Heads or General
Manager.
2.
The District expects its employees to conduct themselves in a businesslike manner and
perform duties conscientiously, honestly, and in accordance with the best interests of
the organization. Employees are expected to take great care when working with
District’s suppliers or contractual contacts and members. Employees should respect
the confidentiality of information acquired in the course of their work. Regardless of
circumstances, if an employee senses that a course of action may involve a conflict of
interest, fraud and/or dishonesty, they should immediately communicate all facts to the
General Manager, or appropriate Department Heads.
R. Termination and Resignation
1.
Upon termination or resignation of employment with the District, the employee shall
be given an exit interview. The exit interview will include a discussion of any
and all applicable benefits, including accrued sick leave, accrued vacation, the
District's retirement plan, health insurance, life insurance and disability insurance. The
employee is also required to return all District property, i.e. keys, credit cards,
identification tag,and District embroidered shirts and caps.
2.
Employees, including employees released during their initial introductory period or
dismissed for disciplinary reasons, will receive their final paycheck within 72 hours of
the employee’s last day of work. The final paycheck will include payment for all
earned salary due and not previously paid, and any accrued but unused leave balances
which are subject to pay. Unused sick leave shall be paid out only to those
employees who retire from the District as specified in Section VII(B)5, below.
VI.
COMPENSATION
A. Employee Compensation
1.
The Board of Directors shall have the exclusive authority to determine the General
Manager's salary. The Board shall approve changes, deletions or additions of positions
of the District. The Board shall also determine the salary ranges for positions of the
District. The General Manager shall have authority to determine the salaries of the
employees of the District within the approved salary range for each position.
2.
Hourly rate of pay will be calculated by taking the employee's monthly rate and
multiplying by 12, then dividing by 2,080.
3.
Pay periods for all employees will be bi-monthly with pay periods ending on the
fifteenth and the last day of the month.
4.
Pay earned during each pay period shall be paid to the employee within 2 working
days of the end of each period.
5.
The Board shall annually consider cost of living in salary and wages of employees
based upon recommendation by the General Manager.
6.
Adjustments in salary and wages of employees based upon performance will be
considered annually in conjunction with an annual employee performance review.
The General Manager shall have authority to adjust an employee’s salary and wages
within the approved salary range of each position
B. Overtime Pay
1.
All "Non-Exempt Employees" are eligible for overtime pay. All overtime pay must
be approved by the Department Head or General Manager.
2.
Overtime pay is defined as that time spent on the job over eight (8) hours in one (1)
normal work day or any time spent on the job on holidays, Saturdays, or Sundays.
3.
The rate paid for overtime pay is the regular hourly rate times one and one-half (1½ or
1.5) for each hour of overtime worked beyond eight (8) hours in one day and two
times the regular hourly rate for each hour of overtime worked beyond twelve (12)
hours in one day.
C. On-Call Pay
1.
Distribution and Customer Service - Each employee of the District who is on On-Call
for distribution and customer service issues will receive one (1) hour of overtime pay
for each day that the employee is performing On-Call duties. For each District
holiday, excluding floating holidays, the employee performing the distribution and
customer service On-Call duty will receive three (3) hours of o v e r t i m e p a y. If
the employee is required to respond to an after hours emergency or service call, the
employee will receive overtime pay for a minimum of one and one-half (1½) hours, or,
for actual time worked, whichever is greater. This shall apply to each call out, provided
the next call out is after the initial 1½ hours.
2.
Production and Treatment - Each employee of the District who is On-Call for
production and treatment issues will receive a h a l f (1/2) hour of overtime pay
for each weekday (Monday – Friday) that the employee is performing On-Call duty
and one (1) hour of overtime pay for each weekend day (Saturday, Sunday) that the
employee is performing On-Call duty. For each District holiday, excluding floating
holidays, the employee performing the production and treatment On -C al l dut y will
receive two (2) hours of o v e r t i m e p a y. Time spent by an employee to address a
SCADA alarm remotely via computer, will be paid overtime pay of a minimum of a
quarter-hour (1/4), or, for actual time worked, whichever is greater. If the alarm
condition cannot be resolved via remote computer and the employee is required to
respond to a District site, the employee will receive overtime pay for a minimum of
one and one-half (1 ½) hours, or, for actual time worked, whichever is greater. This
shall apply to each alarm condition requiring response, provided the next call out is
after the initial 1½ hours..
D. Timekeeping
Each employee is required to keep an accurate record of their time through the use of an online
time tracking system designated by the District. It is the employees’ responsibility to maintain the
online time tracking system on a daily basis.
E. Certification Bonus
When an employee, other than the General Manager, Office Administrator/Board Secretary,
Superintendent or Customer Service Supervisor obtains work related certifications or licenses above
the required certification or licenses for their position, the employee will receive a salary increase
of 2.5% for each certification above the required level. Certification or licenses for this bonus
program are limited to the following:
• State of California Department of Health Services Water Treatment Operator certification
• State of California Department of Health Services Water Distribution Operator certification
• American Water Works Association Water Conservation Specialist certification
• American Water Works Association Cross Control Specialist certification
• Notary Public of the State of California
• Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester licensed by the County of Los Angeles
Any salary increase provided for herein will be effective during the first full pay period subsequent to
the receipt of the certificate in question. If the employee loses certification for any reason, the salary
increase will be rescinded beginning the first payroll period following such loss of certification.
F. Certification and Educational Reimbursement
1.
Upon successfully passing the tests and certifications listed in Section VI(D), above,
the District will reimburse the employee for the cost of the test and certification, as well
as certification renewal (minus any late fees, as it is the responsibility of the District
employee to seek timely payment of fees).
2.
With prior written approval from the General Manager, employees may be entitled
to reimbursement of actual expenses for tuition, books and supplies incurred in
conjunction with courses that are directly related to improving the employee's job
skills or knowledge with respect to his or her current position, as determined by the
General Manager in his or her sole discretion, provided the employee receives a
passing grade for the course. Expenses for certification and education are limited to a
maximum of $1,500 per employee per calendar year.
G. Reimbursement for District Related Business
Use of personal automobiles by employees for District business shall be reimbursed for miles driven at
the current standard mileage rate allowed by the Internal Revenue Service.
VII. BENEFITS
A. Vacation
1.
Each full-time regular employee of the District shall receive paid vacation time in
addition to salary. Said vacation will be accrued and credited to the employee's
vacation account, on a monthly basis, as follows:
a.
During the first year of employment through the fifth anniversary of the
employee’s hired date, the employee shall accrue 6.67 hours per month of
vacation (equivalent to ten (10) days of vacation per year).
b.
During the sixth year of employment through the tenth anniversary of the
employee’s hired date, the employee shall accrue 10 hours per month of
vacation (equivalent to fifteen (15) days of vacation per year).
c.
After the tenth anniversary of the employee’s hired date, the employee shall
accrue 13.33 hours per month of vacation (equivalent to twenty (20) days of
vacation per year).
2.
An employee may utilize accrued vacation time as arranged by the employee and his or
her Department Head or General Manager at least 48 hours in advance of
commencement of the vacation. Preferred vacation times are not guaranteed, but the
employee’s Department Head or General Manager shall attempt to grant the
employee’s request. Once approved, scheduled vacations may not be changed unless
authorized by the General Manager.
3.
Accrual of vacation time is limited to a maximum of one (1) year for all
employees. Employees will be paid for any vacation accrued in excess of one (1)
year’s vacation time as of November 30 each year, which payment will be made during
the first pay period in December of the same year. Vacation time will be paid at the
employee’s rate of pay in effect at the time payment is made.
4.
In the event a District recognized holiday, as set forth in Section VII(C), below, falls
within a scheduled vacation, such holiday shall not be charged against an
employee’s accrued vacation time.
B. Sick Leave
1.
Full Time Regular Employees
a.
Sick leave with pay shall be granted to each Full-Time Regular Employee of
the District at the rate of three and one-third (3.33) hours for each pay period
of services completed. New Full Time Regular Employees must complete
ninety (90) days of employment with the District before being able to accrue sick
leave. Sick leave is not a privilege to be used at the employee’s discretion. Sick
leave may be used for preventive care or for care of an existing health
condition of the employee or an employee’s family member, or for specified
purposes when an employee is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault,
or stalking. A family member includes the employee’s parent, child, spouse,
registered domestic partner, grandparent, grandchild, and sibling.
b.
In order to request sick leave, the employee must notify the District in advance
whenever the need is foreseeable, or within one (1) hour prior to the time set
for beginning the employee's daily duties. If the request is sudden or otherwise
unforeseeable, the employee must provide notice to the employee’s
Department Head or the General Manager as soon as possible. When sick leave
absence is for more than three (3) working days, the employee may be required
to file with the District a physician's release or other evidence satisfactory to
the District, stating the cause or reason for absence. If an employee is absent
five (5) (or more) consecutive working days, a doctor's release is required in
order for the employee to return to work. The doctor's release must state that
the employee is sufficiently recovered to perform the duties of the position
without restriction or limitation, or the employee may not be permitted to return
to work.
c.
Any Full Time Regular Employee who, on the first of December of any calendar
year, has an unused sick leave balance of at least 400 hours (50 days) will be
paid for sick leave that is in excess of 400 hours. The payment will be
calculated at one-half (1/2) of the employee’s current rate of pay for the hours
in excess of 400 hours, which payment will be made during the first pay period
in December of the same year. Payments shall be made to ensure that as of the
first of December of any calendar year there shall be no employee that has a
balance of unused sick leave in excess of 400 hours.
d.
If an employee is terminated by the District, then the employee shall not be
entitled to receive payment for any unused sick leave balance that the employee
may have at the time of termination regardless of the amount of unused sick
leave.
2.
e.
Any employee who retires with either service or disability retirement will be
paid for unused sick leave up to 400 hours (50 days) at one-half (1/2) of the
employee’s then current rate of pay. Such an employee shall not be paid for any
unused sick leave in excess of 400 hours (50 days).
f.
In case of an employee’s death, the Board of Directors, in its sole discretion, may
authorize the payment for any unused sick leave to that employee’s spouse or
family.
Part-Time Regular Employees
a.
Effective as of July 1, 2015, sick leave with pay shall be granted to each Part-time
Regular Employee of the District at the rate of 2 minutes of sick time per hour
worked. New Part Time Regular Employees must complete ninety (90) days of
employment with the District before being able to accrue sick leave. Sick leave
is not a privilege to be used at the employee’s discretion. Sick leave may be
used for preventive care or for care of an existing health condition of the
employee or an employee’s family member, or for specified purposes when an
employee is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. A
family member includes the employee’s parent, child, spouse, registered
domestic partner, grandparent, grandchild, and sibling.. Unused sick leave will
be accumulated at the rate of 80 hours (ten days) a year, without limit.
b.
Any Part Time Regular Employee who, on the first of December of any calendar
year, has an unused sick leave balance in excess of 48 hours, will be paid for any
such excess sick leave at the rate of one-half (1/2) of the employee’s current
hourly rate. Payment will be made during the first pay period in December of
the same year. Payments shall be made to ensure that as of the first of
December of any calendar year there shall be no part-time regular employee
that has a balance of unused sick leave in excess of 48 hours.
c.
Sections VII.B(1)(b), VII.B(1)(d), and VII.B(1)(f), above, regarding sick leave
that apply to Full Time Regular Employees shall also apply to Part Time Regular
Employees.
C. Holidays
1.
All full-time regular employees will receive the following days off from work as
paid holidays:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
New Year's Day - January 1st
Martin Luther King Day - Third Monday in January
Presidents' Day - Third Monday in February
Memorial Day - Last Monday in May
Independence Day - July 4th
Labor Day - First Monday in September
Veteran's Day - November 11th
Thanksgiving Day – Fourth Thursday in November
Thanksgiving Holiday - Friday following Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Day - December 25th
2.
If a holiday falls on a Saturday, the immediately preceding Friday will be deemed
the District holiday. If a holiday falls upon a Sunday, the immediately following
Monday will be deemed the District holiday.
3.
In addition to the District recognized holidays, each Full-Time Employee of the
District shall be entitled to two (2) additional days off per calendar year, to be known
as a “floating holiday,” which may be utilized on any regularly scheduled District
work day with the prior approval of the General Manager or appropriate
Department Head. A “floating holiday” must be used in eight (8) hour increments.
These “floating holidays” must be used in the calendar year. If not used within the
calendar year, the unused day(s) will be paid to the employee at the close of the final
pay period of the year, at the employee’s then current hourly rate.
4.
Any full-time regular employee required to work on a holiday may be entitled to
compensation pursuant to this Section VII(C). In order for an employee to receive a
paid holiday, the employee must work on the regular work day before and the regular
workday after the holiday, or utilize vacation time on those days. If an employee takes
either or both of those days off as sick leave, the employee shall not receive a paid
holiday unless and until the employee has provided his or her Department Head or
General Manager a letter from a doctor or other medical professional substantiating the
employee’s sick leave as a permissible use of sick leave.
D. Leave of Absence
Upon submission of a written request, and written approval by the General Manager, an employee
may be granted a leave of absence without pay. No employee benefits will be paid by the
District, or accrued, during the absence, with the exception of insurance coverage(s) which will remain
in effect for the current calendar month. If an employee will be on leave of absence for a period
longer than the District will provide insurance coverage(s), the employee may elect to pay the
District the cost of insurance coverage(s) in order to continue protection. If an employee will be off
the payroll for more than 30 days, the employee may elect to pay the cost of medical and/or life
insurance coverage(s) in order to continue said coverage(s).
E. Compassionate Leave
Whenever any full-time regular employee is absent from work due to a death in the employee's
immediate family or the employee's spouse's immediate family, the General Manager, in his or her
sole discretion, is authorized to grant up to a maximum of three (3) working days compassionate
leave with pay. Compassionate leave with pay will not affect any employee benefits. Immediate
family for the purpose of compassionate leave is defined as a mother, father, wife, husband, natural
or adopted child, brother, sister, grandparent, grandchild, domestic partner, similar in-laws or step
relatives.
F. Leave Related to Military Service
Any leave taken as a result of military service must be supported by a certification of its necessity
from the United States government. A leave taken due to the need to care for a service member
shall be supported by a certification by the service member’s health care provider.
G. HIPPA
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, was enacted in 1996 and is overseen by the
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. HIPPA regulations are enforced by the Office of
Civil Rights and prevent the release, disclosure or use of an individual’s health information
without written permission. However, there are instances when certain health information can be
disclosed to what is referred to as “covered entities” without permission. A copy of the current
HIPPA notice may be obtained from the Office Administrator.
H. COBRA
The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA) was enacted to protect
employees and their eligible family members by allowing them to continue group health
insurance under the employer’s plan at affordable group rates. Employees are notified at hiring
of their rights under this law and it is the employee’s responsibility to notify the District’s Office
Administrator of any qualifying event believed to enable COBRA coverage within 60 days of
such event. Cal-COBRA is California law that has similar provisions to federal COBRA. With
Cal-COBRA the group policy must be in force with 2-19 employees covered on at least 50 percent
of its working days during the preceding calendar year, or the preceding calendar quarter, if the
employer was not in business during any part of the preceding calendar year. A copy of the
current COBRA requirements may be obtained from the Office Administrator.
I.
J.
Jury Duty
1.
District employees summoned by a local or State tribunal will be permitted time off
from work for jury duty. The affidavit or Jury Summons requiring jury service
must be presented by the employee to the Office Administrator prior to the date that
the employee must attend jury duty.
2.
For full-time regular employees, the District will pay for a maximum of up to ten
(10) working days of jury service every year at the employee’s regular rate of pay. In
order to qualify for paid jury leave, the employee must provide proof of attendance at
jury duty and pay to the District any amount of money the Court paid to the employee,
minus any amount paid for travel mileage.
3.
All full-time regular employees that are required to serve on a jury for more than 10
days will continue to receive other District employment benefits while serving on the
jury, but will not receive regular pay beyond the 10 days as set forth under Section
VII.I.2, above.
Time off to Vote
The General Manager will allow employees time off from work with pay for no more than two (2)
hours for the purposes of voting at any statewide or local government election. Such time off will
be granted during times that are least disruptive to District operations, as designated at the
discretion of the General Manager or the appropriate Department Head.
K. Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
1.
All full-time regular employees of the District, and all elected or appointed Directors
of the District’s Board of Directors, hired on or before June 30, 2015 shall be eligible
for health, dental, and vision insurance coverage. For said full-time regular employees
and Directors, the District shall pay for 100% of the cost of health, dental, and
vision insurance coverage for the employee or Director, the employee’s or
Director’s spouse, and the employee’s or Director’s dependent(s) in accordance with
a group plan provided by the District.
2.
All full-time regular employees hired after June 30, 2015, and all Directors of the
District’s Board of Directors elected or appointed to a new or non-incumbent term after
June 30, 2015, shall be eligible to enroll in health, dental, and vision insurance through
the District’s group plan. For said employees and Directors, the District shall provide
coverage up to a maximum amount of $1,500.00 toward the monthly health insurance
premium regardless of the type of plan (i.e. single, married, or family plan) or number
of enrollees the employee or Director may seek to enroll. This amount shall be adjusted
annually beginning January 1, 2016 by a percentage equal to the cost of living
adjustment adopted by the Board of Directors. The employee or Director is free to
select any available plan offered by the District, but if the monthly premium for the
desired plan is more than the maximum amount offered by the District as set forth
herein, the employee or Director is responsible for and must pay for any and all costs in
excess of that maximum coverage amount. Any such monthly payments shall be made
by regular payroll deduction.
3.
A copy of the current health, dental, and vision insurance plans may be obtained from
the Office Administrator. District paid health, dental, and vision insurance is a
b e n e f i t t h a t i s subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors, and the
plan(s) or coverage may be changed or eliminated without notice.
L. Life Insurance
1.
The District provides a life insurance benefit of $20,000 for the employee and such
lesser amount for family members of the employee as provided by the District’s
policy. The employee may voluntarily pay the premium to increase the life
insurance benefits above $20,000, at the employee’s expense, as may be
permitted under the life insurance provider’s plan.
2.
Upon a Director’s sworn Oath of Office, life insurance shall be available to the
Director in the amount of $10,000 and such lesser amount for the Director’s spouse as
provided by the District’s life insurance plan.
3.
A copy of the current life insurance plan may be obtained from the Office
Administrator. The Board of Directors reserves the right to amend said life insurance
benefits in its sole discretion at any time.
M. Disability Insurance
The District provides full-time regular employees Short-term Disability (STD) and Long-term
Disability (LTD) insurance at no cost to the employee. More information regarding said disability
plans are available for inspection at the District office during regular business hours.
N. Retirement Benefits and Deferred Compensation Plan
1.
The District participates in the California Public Employees Retirement System
(CalPERS) for full time regular and part time regular employees.
a.
For full-time regular employees hired prior to January 1, 2013, the District
currently pays 100% of the contributions (both employer and employee
contributions required under the plan). The District’s contract with CalPERS
provides employees with a 2% at age 60 retirement benefit.
b.
For full-time regular employees hired after January 1, 2013, the District’s
contract with CalPERS provides employees with a 2% at age 62 benefit
formula with an early retirement age of 52 and a maximum benefit factor of
2.5% at age 67. Said full-time regular employees hired after January 1, 2013
shall pay 50% of the total normal cost of their pension benefit. However, the
employee contribution rate may not exceed 8% of their salary as defined in the
CalPERS contract with the District.
c.
A full-time regular employee hired after January 1, 2013 that established a
CalPERS membership at his or her previous employer within six months
prior to beginning employment at the District, will qualify for the 2% at 60
formula as provided to full- time regular employees hired before January 1,
2013, as set forth in Section VII(N)(1)(a).
d.
A part-time regular employee who works over 1,000 hours within the District’s
fiscal year is entitled to retirement benefits with CalPERS. Said benefit shall be
effective upon the first day of the first pay period of the following month after
which the part-time employee completes 1,000 hours of employment with the
District. For part-time regular employees hired after January 1, 2013 that are
eligible for CalPERS as set forth herein, the benefit is the same as for full-time
regular employees as set forth in Section VII(N)(b), above.
e.
The District’s retirement benefits plan may be obtained from the Office
Administrator for inspection at the District office during regular business hours.
2.
The District also offers an employee funded Deferred Compensation Plan through
Lincoln Financial Group for all employees. Said plan may be obtained from the Office
Administrator for inspection at the District office during regular business hours.
3.
The Board of Directors reserves the right to amend the retirement benefits and
deferred compensation plans at any time.
O. Retiree Health, Dental and Vision Benefits
1.
2.
The following individuals shall qualify for post-retirement medical, dental and
vision insurance benefits:
a.
Retired Directors pursuant to Government Code Section 53201;
b.
Full-Time Regular Employees that were employed by the District prior to
November 1, 2011 who, at the time of retirement, had been continuously
employed by the District for a minimum period of ten (10) years and have
attained a minimum age of fifty (50) years; and
c.
Full-Time Regular Employees employed by the District after November 1, 2011
who, at the time of retirement, had been continuously employed by the
District for a minimum continuous period of twenty (20) years and have
attained a minimum age of fifty-five (55) years.
The District provides medical, dental and vision insurance benefits for the spouses
of eligible retired Directors and employees (hereinafter referred to as the “Retiree”) as
follows:
a. For the spouse of Retirees under Sections VII(O)(1)(a) and VII(O)(1)(b), above,
such benefits will be provided for the remainder of the spouse’s life, provided the
spouse is married to the Retiree at the time of his or her retirement from the
District and remains married to the Retiree until the Retiree’s death. Should the
spouse re-marry, such benefits shall cease.
b. For the spouse of a Retiree under Section VII(O)(1)(c), above, the District shall
make available, at the Retiree’s expense, medical insurance benefits for the spouse
of the Retiree. If payment for said coverage is not provided to the District on
the premium due date set forth by the insurance provider, said coverage is subject to
cancellation.
3.
The District shall make available to Retirees under Section VII(O)(1), above,
medical insurance benefits for the children of Retirees at the Retiree’s expense. The
eligibility of coverage for such children shall be determined by the insurance
provider. If payment for said coverage is not provided to the District on the due
date set forth by the insurance provider, said coverage is subject to cancellation.
4.
The term “retirement”, as used in this section, shall include resignation, death, or
termination due to disability, of an employee who otherwise meets the qualifications
for post-retirement benefits.
5.
The Board of Directors reserves the right and retains sole discretion to substitute
other comparable major medical, vision and dental coverage for the coverage then
provided under this Section VII(O).
P. Use of Vehicles
1.
Employees, who are required to operate a District or personal vehicle to conduct
District business, must possess a valid California Driver's License issued by the
California Department of Motor Vehicles. These employees must, at all times,
observe and abide by all state and local traffic laws. Any employee operating a District
or personal vehicle, who has his or her driver's license suspended or revoked, or is
refused insurance coverage by the District's insurance carrier, is subject to having his
or her employment terminated by the District.
2.
The District has established and maintains a Driving Record Review Program. As
part of this program, it has enrolled in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Employer Pull Notice Program, a free service for the District that provides a driver
record reports on all employees (full-time and part time).
3.
District vehicles are to be garaged at the District’s Hudson Avenue warehouse when
not in use. These vehicles are NOT to be used for personal business or transportation
of family members or friends. The General Manager may grant a temporary
exception to such prohibition when the circumstances warrant. The following
District employees shall be issued District vehicles for transportation to and from
work as well as for other District Business:
•
•
•
•
On-Call employee(s);
Superintendent;
Water Production Specialist;
General Manager.
Q. Family Care and Medical Leave (CFRA Leave) and Pregnancy Disability Leave
1.
Under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA), if an employee has more than 12
months of service with the District, and has worked at least 1,250 hours in the
preceding 12-month period, the employee may have a right to an unpaid family care
or medical leave (CFRA leave). This leave may be for up to 12 work weeks in a 12month period for the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of the employee's
child or for the employee's own serious health condition or that of the employee's
child, parent or spouse.
2.
Even if an employee is not eligible for CFRA leave, if the employee is disabled
by pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, the employee may be entitled to
take a pregnancy disability leave for up to four (4) months, depending on the
period(s) of actual disability. If an employee is eligible under CFRA, the employee
may be entitled to take both a pregnancy disability leave and a CFRA leave for
reason of the birth of the employee's child.
3.
An employee that desires to utilize CFRA or pregnancy disability leave must
provide at least 30 days advance written notice for foreseeable events (such as the
expected birth of a child or a planned medical treatment for the employee or of a
family member). For events which are unforeseeable, the employee must, at a
minimum, notify District management verbally as soon as the employee learns of the
need for the leave. Failure to comply with these notice rules is grounds for, and may
result in, deferral of the requested leave until the employee complies with this notice
policy.
4.
The District requires written verification from an employee's health care provider
before allowing an employee leave for pregnancy disability or the employee's own
serious health condition, or written verification from the health care provider of the
employee's child, parent or spouse who has a serious health condition, before al lowing
the employee leave to take care of that family member. When medically necessary,
leave may be taken on an inte rmittent or reduced work schedule.
5.
If an employee see ks leave for the birth, adoption or foster care placement of a child,
the minimum duration of the leave is two (2) weeks and the employee must conclude
the leave within one (1) year of the birth or placement for adoption or foster care.
6.
Taking a CFRA or pregnancy disability leave may impact certain employee benefits
and an employee's seniority date. An employee that wants more information
regarding and the impact on such benefits should contact the General Manager.
R. Return to Work
In an effort to minimize serious disability due to on-the-job and off-the-job injuries and illnesses
and to reduce workers’ compensation costs (if applicable), the District has developed a Return-toWork program. This policy is consistent with the District’s responsibilities under the Americans
with Disabilities Act to provide reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities. The
Return to Work Policy is available for review in the District’ Office Administrator.
VIII.
REQUEST FOR REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
To comply with applicable laws ensuring equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals
with a disability, the District will make reasonable accommodations for the known physical or
mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability who is an applicant or an
employee unless undue hardship would result. Any applicant or employee who requires an
accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of the job should contact the District’s
Office Administrator discuss the need for an accommodation. The District will engage in an
interactive process with the employee to identify possible accommodations, if any.
IX.
NONDISCRIMINATION AND COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
A. Nondiscrimination Policy
1.
The District is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on
the basis of merit. Unless based upon a bona fide occupational qualification as defined
by law, no personnel action (including appointment to or removal from a position
in District employment) shall be based upon race, creed, color, age, religion, sex,
ancestry, national origin, m i l i t a r y s t a t u s , physical or mental disability,
pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, marital status, non-disqualifying
medical condition, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, genetic
information or any other consideration unlawful under federal, state or local laws.
2.
Any technique or procedure used in recruitment or selection of employees shall be
designed to measure only the job-related qualifications of applicants. No recruitment
or selection technique or any other personnel action shall be used that, in the opinion
of the General Manager, is not justifiably linked to successful job performance.
3.
Pursuant to applicable laws ensuring equal employment opportunities to qualified
individuals with a disability, the District will make reasonable accommodations for
the known physical or mental disabilities of an otherwise qualified applicant for
employment with the District, unless such reasonable accommodations would
impose undue hardship upon the District.
4.
Any employee suffering from a disability that requires an accommodation in order
to perform the essential functions of his or her job should provide notice of such need
to his or her Department Head or the General Manager, who will then engage in
an interactive process with the employee to determine the extent of the disability as
it relates to the job and what appropriate reasonable accommodations can be made to
assist the employee carry out the essential functions of his or her job. The District
will provide such reasonable accommodations to the extent it does not impose
undue hardship, pursuant to applicable law.
B. Complaint Procedure
1.
In adopting its nondiscrimination policy, the District assures its employees that
every reasonable step will be taken to prevent discrimination from occurring. If an
employee believes that he or she has been unlawfully discriminated against, the
employee is urged to immediately provide a written or oral complaint to the
employee's Department Head or to the General Manager as soon as possible after the
incident. Such complaint should include all the details of the incident(s), names of
individuals involved, and the names of any witnesses. All information and
communication regarding the discrimination will be kept confidential, subject to
disclosure in an investigation and as required by applicable law.
2.
Anyone receiving a complaint of unlawful discrimination will immediately document
the complaint in writing and refer the complaint to the General Manager, who will
insure that an immediate, thorough, and objective investigation of the discrimination
allegation(s) is undertaken. The General Manager will inform the employee of his
or her right to seek independent legal counsel and any assistance available to the
employee under the District's policies.
3.
After the investigation is completed and findings have been made, the District will
communicate the findings to the complainant, the alleged offender, and any other
concerned party as determined by the General Manager. If the General Manager
determines that unlawful discrimination has occurred, remedial action will be taken
as warranted by the circumstances. Any employee found to be guilty of discrimination
will be subject to discipline ranging from oral or written reprimand, up to, and
including, termination.
4.
To achieve the goals of the District's policy, it is necessary that each employee
understand the importance of the policy and his or her individual responsibility to
contribute toward its maximum fulfillment. Employees are encouraged to report any
and all perceived or alleged incidents of discrimination and are assured that there will
not be any retaliation for having reported, in good faith, any incident of suspected
discrimination.
5.
This Nondiscrimination Policy and Complaint Procedure is included as part of this
Manual and shall be provided to each District employee and to all new employees at
the time of commencement of employment. Each existing and new employee shall
acknowledge receipt of the Manual by executing the form specified in Section XIII of
this Manual, which form shall be retained in each employee's personnel file.
X.
WORKPLACE VIOLENCE
A. The safety and security of employees and customers are very important to the District.
Threats, threatening behavior, acts of violence, or any related conduct which disrupts
another’s work performance or ability to execute its daily business will not be tolerated.
B. Any person who makes threats, exhibits threatening behavior, or engages in violent acts
on District’s property may be removed from the premises pending the outcome of an
investigation. Threats, threatening behavior, or other acts of violence off District’s
property, but directed at District employees, District members or the public while
conducting business for the District, is a violation of this policy.
C. Off-site threats include but are not limited to threats made via telephone, fax, electronic
or conventional mail, threats through online social media or any other
communication medium. Violations of this policy will lead to disciplinary action that may
include termination.
D. Employees are responsible for notifying the General Manager or Department Head of
any threats which they have witnessed, received, or have been told that another person has
witnessed or received. Employees should also report any behavior they have witnessed
which they regard as threatening or violent when that behavior is job related or might be
carried out on District property or in connection with employment.
E. Each employee who receives a protective or restraining order which lists District’s premises
as a protected area is required to provide the Office Administrator with a copy of such order.
XI.
ANTI-HARASSMENT AND COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
A. Anti-Harassment Policy
1.
All employees, customers of the District, and members of the public, are to be treated
with respect and dignity. The District is committed to providing an atmosphere
free of all harassment, particularly harassment based on such factors as race, creed,
color, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, nondisqualifying medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions, marital
status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or genetic information.
2.
Workplace harassment is against the law. It is the policy of the District that
workplace harassment of any co-worker, co-employee or member of the public, by
any employee, or customer of the District is absolutely prohibited and will not be
tolerated. Failure to abide by this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to, and
including, termination.
3.
Workplace harassment includes verbal, physical, and visual contact that creates an
intimidating, offensive, or hostile working environment that interferes with work
performance. Examples of workplace harassment include racial or sexist slurs, ethnic
or sexist jokes, posting of offensive statements, offensive or insulting posters or
cartoons, and unwanted touching or blocking of normal movement.
4.
It is unlawful to harass a person because of that person’s sex. Sexual harassment
encompasses many forms of offensive behavior and includes gender-based harassment
of a person of the same sex. Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to, the
making of any unwelcome advances and/or visual, verbal or physical conduct of a
sexual nature, offering employment benefits in exchange for sexual favors, or
threatening reprisals after a negative response to a sexual advance. Some examples of
sexual harassment are: requests for sexual favors, demeaning sexual remarks, leering,
making sexual gestures, displaying of sexually suggestive objects or pictures,
references to anyone in terms such as "honey," making or using derogatory
comments, epithets, slurs or jokes, comments about an individual's body, touching,
impeding or blocking movements, or any other conduct based upon an individual's sex
that creates an atmosphere or environment that interfere s with that individual's job
performance or is intimidating, hostile, or offensive to that individual.
5.
If an employee thinks that he or she or one of his or her co-workers h as been t he victim
o f harass men t, that pe rsonshould tel l the h ara sser t hat t he behavior is unwelcome.
If the harasser does stop, then immediately report such conduct to his or her Department
Head or to the General Manager. Every complaint of harassment tha t is reported to a
Department Head or the General Manager will be taken seriously and investi gated
thoroughly. The District encourages employees to report harassment, as every
employee's cooperation is crucial to maintaining a healthy workplace that is free from
harassment. Retaliation against any employee by management or other employees for
making a complaint of harassment in good faith, or participating in the investigation of
any complaint, will not be tolerated. This is the firm “zero tolerance” policy of the
District.
B. Complaint Procedure
1.
In adopting its zero tolerance harassment policy, the District assures its employees
that every reasonable step will be taken to prevent harassment at the workplace. If an
employee believes that he or she has been unlawfully harassed, the employee is urged
to immediately do the following:
a.
Make it clear to the offender that the behavior is offensive and unacceptable. If
possible, confront the offender and attempt to persuade him or her to stop
the behavior that is unwelcome. The offender may not realize that the
advances or behavior are unacceptable. A simple confrontation will often end
the situation.
b.
Don’t let confusion and self-doubt stop her or him from speaking out regarding
the behavior and actions of the offender.
c.
Keep a record of dates, times, places, witnesses and the nature of the
harassment. Such records may be very helpful if the employee finds it
necessary to pursue a formal complaint.
d.
Contact his or her Department Head or the General Manager if the employee
feels that she or he has been or is being sexually harassed, or is aware of or
suspects the occurrence of sexual harassment, or desires counseling on
coping with sexual harassment, the employee should immediately contact his
or her Department Head or the General Manager.
e.
Foster confidentiality by insuring the privacy for all parties concerned with
the exception of proper notification to the General Manager or Department
Head.
f.
Provide a written or oral complaint to the employee's Department Head or to
the General Manager as soon as possible after the incident. Such complaint
should include all details of the incident(s), names of individuals involved, and
the names of any witnesses. All information and communication regarding
the harassment will be kept confidential, subject to disclosure as required by
applicable law.
2.
The following procedures will be followed after an employee reports unlawful
harassment:
a.
Anyone receiving a complaint of unlawful harassment will immediately
document the complaint in writing and refer the complaint to the General
Manager, who will insure that an immediate, thorough and objective
investigation of the harassment allegation(s) is undertaken. The General
Manager will inform the employee of his or her right to seek independent
legal counsel and any assistance available to the employee under the District's
policies.
b.
After the investigation and findings have been concluded, the District
will communicate the findings to the complainant, alleged harasser, and
any other concerned party as determined by the General Manager. If it is
determined that unlawful harassment has occurred, remedial action will be
taken as warranted by the circumstances. Any employee found to be guilty of
harassment will be subject to discipline ranging from verbal or written
reprimand, up to, and including, termination.
3.
To achieve the goals of the District's anti-harassment policy, it is necessary that
each employee understand the importance of the policy and his or her individual
responsibility to contribute towards its maximum fulfillment. Employees are
encouraged to report any and all alleged or perceived incidents of harassment and are
assured that there will not be any retaliation for having reported, in good faith, any
incident of suspected harassment.
4.
This Anti-Harassment Policy and Complaint Procedure are included in this Manual
and shall be provided to each District employee and all new employees at the time of
commencement of employment. Each existing and new employee shall
acknowledge receipt of the Manual by executing the form specified in Section XIII
of this manual and the executed form shall be retained in each employee's personnel
file.
[Retain in Employee Personnel File.]
XII.
EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF EMPLOYEE
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL
Each existing District employee and all new employees are required to receive and read a copy of
this Manual and any amendments thereto. Each existing employee shall, within 30 days of the
adoption of this Manual, receive and sign an acknowledgement that he or she has received and
read this Manual and understands its provisions, which acknowledgement shall be placed in the
employee's personnel file. Each newly hired employee shall, at the time of commencement of
employment, receive a copy of this Manual and sign such acknowledgement prior to commencement
of work at the District, which acknowledgement shall be placed in the employee's personnel file.
EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OFRECEIPT OF EMPLOYEE POLICIES
AND PROCEDURES MANUAL ADOPTED ON THE 10th day of August , 2013.
I acknowledge that I have received, read, and understand the La Puente Valley County Water
District's Employee Policies and Procedures Manual. I understand that this acknowledgement will be
placed in my personnel file and that I will receive a copy of it upon request.
[Print Full Name]
Dated this
day of
, 2015
[Signature]
STAFF REPORT Meeting Date:
August 7, 2015
To:
Honorable Board of Directors
Subject:
VOC Treatment System Vapor Phase Carbon Replacement
Purpose -
To secure services for the replacement of 27,000 lbs of vapor phase
carbon at the District’s Treatment Plant.
Recommendation -
Review the bid results and authorize the General Manger to proceed
with the work as specified in the quotation provided by Carbon
Activated Corporation.
Fiscal Impact -
The 2015 Treatment Plant Budget appropriates $31,900 for VOC
Treatment, which includes an estimated 27,000 lbs of vapor phase
carbon to be replaced in 2015. The low bid from Carbon Activated is
within the Budget for this expense category. The cost for the vapor
phase carbon replacement services is a BPOU Project expense and
shall be 100% reimbursed by the Cooperating Respondents.
Previous Related Action -
None.
Summary
The District’s treats groundwater for VOC contamination through the operation of two air stripping
towers. As VOC contamination is removed from the water by this technology, the VOCs must then
be removed from the air that passes through the air strippers, before being released into the
atmosphere. This is accomplished by the use of adsorber vessels that utilize granular activated vapor
phase carbon to treat this air flow. Based on air quality monitoring, the carbon in the vessels must be
replaced to ensure adequate treatment capacity of the carbon beds.
The last carbon replacement was performed in July 2014. At that time both Air Stripper No. 1 and
No. 2 carbon beds were changed-out. It is now time, once again, to replace the carbon. Staff sent out
a notice inviting bids to four vapor phase carbon suppliers. Bids were due August 5, 2015. Three
suppliers submitted bids, which are summarized in the enclosed bid comparison table. As shown in
the table Carbon Activated is the apparent low bidder.
Fiscal Impact
The cost for the vapor phase carbon replacement services is a BPOU Project expense and shall be
100% reimbursed by the Cooperating Respondents. The 2015 Treatment Plant Budget appropriates
$31,900 for VOC Treatment, which includes an estimated 27,000 pounds of carbon to be replaced in
Page 1 of 2
2015. The bid from Carbon Activated is for $16,132.50. This bid is within the Budget for this
expense category.
Recommendation
Staff requests the Board authorize the General Manager to proceed with the work as specified in the
bid submitted by Carbon Activated Corporation for Vapor Phase Carbon Replacement Services.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg B. Galindo
General Manager
Enclosures
-
August 2015 Vapor Phase Carbon Replacement Services Bid Comparison Table
Page 2 of 2
4 x 8 Reactivated
Coconut GAC
Aug-15
Supplier Carbon Activated
4 x 8 Reactivated
Coconut GAC
4 x 8 Reactivated
Coconut GAC
Evoqua
Prominent
Quantity (lbs)
27,000
27,000
27,000
Unit Price/lb
$0.5975
Recycled Product
Non Taxable
$0.6583
$0.6420
Included
Included
Included
Included
NA
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$16,132.50
$17,775.00
$17,334.00
$0.598
$0.658
$0.642
Tax
Energy Surcharge
Other
Total Cost
Total Cost/lb
RESOLUTION NO. 232
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
SUPPORTING THE NOMINATION OF DIRECTOR KATHLEEN TIEGS
AS THE ASSOCIATION OF CALIFORNIA WATER AGENCIES PRESIDENT
WHEREAS, the La Puente Valley County Water District Board of Directors are active
participants in the Agency of the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA); and
WHEREAS, Director Kathleen Tiegs has expressed her interest in serving as the ACWA
President for the 2015-2016 term, and
WHEREAS, Director Kathleen Tiegs has served in a variety of leadership positions in
ACWA, including Vice-President of the Board, the local Government Committee, the
Groundwater Committee, Vice-Chair of the Federal Affairs Committee, Region 9 Board of
Directors, and as a member of ACWA/JPIA Executive Committee, and
WHEREAS, Director Kathleen Tiegs is committed to advancing ACWA’s Policy Principles
and finding common ties between members to develop a long term strategy that provides a
sustainable water future for all members and their constituents.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE LA PUENTE VALLEY COUNTY WATER
DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
1. Does hereby place its full and unreserved support of the nomination of Direccto
Kathleen Tiegs as President of the Association of California Water Agencies for
the 2015-2016 term.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting of the Board of Directors ont this 10th
day of August, 2015 by the following vote:
Ayes:
President Rojas, Vice President Hernandez, Director Aguirre, Director Escalera
and Director Hastings.
Noes:
None.
Abstained:
None.
Absent:
None.
__________________________________
President to the
Board of Directors
Resolution 232
Page 1
I, ____________________, Secretary to the Board of Directors of La Puente Valley
County Water District, hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was introduced at a regular
meeting of the Board of Directors of said District, held on the ____ day of _____________ 2015,
at which time a quorum was present, and no motion to amend or rescind the above resolution
was made.
ATTEST:
SEAL:
_____________________________________
Secretary to the
Board of Directors
Resolution 232
Page 2
L a Puente Valley County Water District
PRODUCTION REPORT - JULY 2015
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
July
Well No. 2
19.11
0.00
1.81
0.00
8.26
0.00
Well No. 3
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
5.98
Well No. 5
271.21
274.67
296.61
288.46
2.98
3.41
2.70
Subtotal
293.30
278.08
Interconnections to SWS
148.42
Interconnections to COI
Interconnections to Others
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
2015 YTD
2014
3.93
33.10
441.77
0.35
4.94
11.27
393.80
297.77
303.75
296.81
2029.28
2250.99
6.29
28.51
48.28
5.18
97.35
112.10
301.12
294.75
340.52
352.38
310.86
2171.01
3198.67
169.74
162.61
159.05
203.75
210.04
165.96
1219.56
1249.43
28.87
0.00
0.00
2.88
2.76
2.80
10.48
47.79
135.18
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
Subtotal
177.29
169.74
162.61
161.93
206.51
212.84
176.44
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
1267.35
1384.61
Total Production for LPVCWD
116.01
108.33
138.51
132.83
134.01
139.54
134.42
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
903.66
1814.06
175.25
143.79
144.62
139.93
145.32
132.81
141.75
1023.47
1734.37
SGVWC Salt Lake Ave
0.64
0.43
0.51
0.54
0.52
0.63
0.66
3.93
6.98
SGVWC Lomitas Ave
63.12
86.09
101.84
111.88
121.80
151.43
112.22
748.38
1382.38
SGVWC Workman Mill Rd
4.29
0.55
0.13
0.10
0.56
0.18
0.18
5.99
9.88
Interconnections from LPVCWD
28.87
0.00
0.00
2.88
2.76
2.80
10.48
47.79
135.18
Subtotal
96.92
87.07
102.48
115.40
125.64
155.04
123.54
806.09
1534.42
Interconnections to LPVCWD
2.98
3.41
2.70
6.29
28.51
48.28
5.18
97.35
96.59
Total Production for CIWS
93.94
83.66
99.78
109.11
97.13
106.76
118.36
708.74
1437.83
LPVCWD PRODUCTION
Interconnections to LPVCWD
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
CIWS PRODUCTION
COI Well No. 5 To SGVCW B5
Interconnections to CIWS
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
MONTHLY ACTIVITIES REPORT -JULY 2015
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
No. of Samples from Distribution System
16
35
16
28
20
33
18
29
17
27
21
41
17
29
No. of Samples from Treatment Plant
155
LP
CIWS
September
LP
CIWS
October
LP
CIWS
November
December
LP
LP
CIWS
CIWS
2015 YTD
2014 Total
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
125
222
276
367
1106
0
1740
Water Quality Monitoring
149
210
129
150
141
172
Distribution Maintenance
Repair/Replace Service Line
3
1
1
2
1
3
3
0
5
2
3
4
5
1
21
13
42
37
Repair/Replace Main Line
0
2
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
2
0
4
2
4
5
Replace Curb/Angle Stop
0
0
0
1
1
0
2
0
2
0
2
0
1
0
8
1
11
18
New Service Installations
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
1
3
1
Install New Air Release or Blow Off
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
11
Concrete/Asphalt Patch Repairs - Staff
2
0
1
0
1
2
0
1
2
0
0
2
2
2
8
7
6
11
Concrete/Asphalt Patch Repairs - Vendor
0
0
4
6
0
0
7
3
0
0
0
0
10
4
21
13
51
114
Reset Meter Box to Grade
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
1
7
2
Replace Slip Can/ Valve Lid
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
1
1
0
6
Fire Hydrant Repairs/Replaced
3
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
5
2
6
6
Valves Exercised
0
110
0
91
0
48
0
38
0
53
8
3
49
0
57
343
2
220
Hydrants / Dead Ends Flushed
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
10
17
Replaced Register/Meter/Guts
4
3
16
9
4
6
2
3
10
8
13
5
29
6
78
40
78
54
Replace Meter Box/Lid
4
0
2
1
4
0
2
2
0
0
7
0
3
0
22
3
14
34
Removed Meter
2
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
1
1
0
5
1
3
3
Repaired Meter Leaks
3
1
1
0
3
0
2
1
3
0
6
2
3
1
21
5
10
6
Re-Reads for Billing
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
3
28
17
Read for Open/Close
1
0
3
2
2
3
4
3
8
1
6
3
5
2
29
14
59
35
Turn Off/Lock
3
3
4
7
3
10
11
4
3
7
9
10
8
6
41
47
109
71
Turn On
5
18
7
15
9
17
13
11
8
8
12
15
15
7
69
91
149
131
Door Hangers - Miscellaneous
3
2
4
1
3
8
6
6
9
3
6
7
6
3
37
30
14
1
Door Hangers- Delinquents
55
132
81
99
74
105
89
98
68
91
65
108
62
98
494
731
1122
1378
Meter Maintenance
Customer Service
Door Hangers - Conservation
1
1
0
0
7
1
14
5
6
0
6
1
7
4
41
12
22
7
Shut Off - Non-Payment
Shut Off - Customer
Emergency/Request
12
21
14
16
11
22
11
15
5
14
5
11
6
19
64
118
124
203
3
2
0
3
0
1
4
3
2
2
4
0
3
2
16
13
23
31
Locate for USA
USA's - Underground Service Alerts
Marked
18
20
0
17
20
29
19
36
23
19
28
38
22
12
130
171
346
276
6
5
4
3
3
3
4
1
6
1
3
5
8
3
34
21
55
59
MONTHLY ACTIVITIES REPORT -JULY 2015
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
Check for Creeping
11
9
6
2
4
7
18
6
10
10
11
6
12
Check for Leak
12
8
5
6
5
4
7
7
9
1
15
7
14
Check for High/Low Pressure
4
1
0
0
0
1
4
0
0
0
0
2
Check for Meter Tampering
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Check for Stopped Meter
27
29
28
21
8
22
22
8
15
23
Retro Fit Program Verification
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
Misc -Other including UHET Toilet Verification
4
3
3
2
8
1
4
0
3
Water Quality - Odor/Color/Taste
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Fire Flow Test
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
LP
CIWS
September
LP
CIWS
October
LP
CIWS
November
December
LP
LP
CIWS
CIWS
2015 YTD
2014 Total
LP
CIWS
LP
CIWS
12
72
52
151
128
6
67
39
103
115
0
0
8
4
10
5
1
0
0
1
1
1
12
24
10
31
18
155
131
255
171
0
0
0
0
2
0
11
0
0
0
0
9
1
31
7
49
15
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
2
2
1
0
0
1
0
0
1
5
3
10
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
Safety Activities
Safety Inspection of Facilities
Monthly Safety Meeting
1
1
0
1
1
1
0
5
0
10
0
Weekly Tailgate Safety Mtg
3
4
5
4
4
5
4
29
0
44
0
Administrative Report
To:
From: Rosa Ruehlman, Office Administrator
Date:
RBR
08/06/2015
The following report represents activities for the prior month of July 2015, along with the
current status of various items listed under the appropriate heading:
Administrative:
•
Prepared minutes, agenda, memos and other items for upcoming Board meetings.
•
In progress - Updates to the Employee Policies and Procedures Manual, the Injury and
Illness Prevention Policy, Security Policy and Membership Policy.
•
Updates to website.
•
Posted upcoming election information for November 3, 2015.
Meetings participated or attended:
•
None for July.
Future Board Meetings/Events:
•
Monday, August 10, 2015 - Regular Board of Directors Meeting at 5:30 pm.
•
Monday, August 24, 2015 - Regular Board of Directors Meeting at 5:30 pm.
•
Monday, September 14, 2015 - Regular Board of Directors Meeting at 5:30 pm.
•
Monday, September 28, 2015 - Regular Board of Directors Meeting at 5:30 pm.
•
Monday, October 12, 2015 - Regular Board of Directors Meeting at 5:30 pm.
•
Monday, October 26, 2015 - Regular Board of Directors Meeting at 5:30 pm.
If you have any questions on the information provided or would like additional information,
please contact me at your earliest convenience.
Upcoming Events
To:
From: Rosa Ruehlman, Office Administrator
RBR
Date: 08/07/2015
Upcoming Board Approved Events for 2015:
Day/Date
Event
Wednesday,
th
Aug. 12
San Gabriel Water Association Meeting at 11:30
am at the Swiss Park in Whittier, CA
MondayThursday,
th
Sept. 21-24
CSDA Annual Conference in Monterey, CA
MondayThursday,
Oct. 26-29th
AWWA CA/NV Fall Conference in Las Vegas, NV
Tuesday Friday, Dec
th
1-4
ACWA Fall Conference in Indian Wells, CA
Aguirre
Escalera
Hastings
X
X
X
Hernandez
Rojas
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
NOTE:
•
Southern California Water Utility Association (SCWUA) Meetings are every 4th Thursday of
each month except November and December which are held on the third Thursday of those
months. Further dates TBA
•
San Gabriel Valley Water Association, Quarterly luncheon is held the 2nd Wednesday of
each quarter at the Swiss Park in Whittier, CA. Dates not yet available - TBA
If you have any questions on the information provided or would like additional information, please
contact me at your earliest convenience.
ACWANews
ACWA’s Member Newsletter • www.acwa.com
Prop. 218-Compliant Water
Conservation Pricing Explored
Water pricing models that
encourage conservation and
comply with Proposition 218
were explored in depth during a
daylong workshop July 8 hosted
by the State Water Resources
Control Board.
Water conservation experts from the California
Department of Water Resources dispense watersaving tips at the California State Fair, which runs
through July 26. Top: An outdoor garden exhibit
offers tips on landscape irrigation efficiency,
including ways to keep shade-giving trees alive
during drought. Bottom: Fairgoers explore hands-on
demonstrations of ways to save water in kitchens,
laundry rooms and bathrooms at DWR’s exhibit in
the counties building.
The workshop examined ways
water agencies can adopt best
practices and avoid potential
pitfalls when developing water
conservation pricing. State officials also discussed how the state
may help local agencies develop
effective pricing structures by
establishing an information clearinghouse where agencies report
effective rate structure models.
“We know that an effective price
signal is one of the most effective
43
07
July 24, 2015
3
Gov. Brown Signs
Budget Trailer Bill on
Mandatory Water
System Consolidations
Gov. Jerry Brown’s April 1 emergency executive order on the
drought directed the State Water
Board to promote water conservation pricing mechanisms.
Members of the State Water
Board listened to several panels
of speakers who talked about
the state and local approaches to
water financing. Lester Snow, executive director of the California
Water Foundation, stressed that
the price of water should reflect
the cost of investments in water
infrastructure. Snow also advocated for a statewide water fee,
as well as reform of Prop. 218,
Conservation Continued on page 7
California WaterFix: Revised Delta
Project Opens for Public Comment Period
California WaterFix — a
proposed water conveyance
improvement plan for the
Sacramento-San Joaquin River
Delta — is now available for
public review and comment.
On July 9, state and federal
officials jointly released draft
environmental documents that
analyze California WaterFix
– the Delta conveyance
plan preferred by state and
Vol.
ways to achieve conservation,”
said State Water Board Chair
Felicia Marcus.
4
Drought News Digest
federal officials also known as
alternative 4a of the Bay Delta
Conservation Plan.
The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation
and the California Department
of Water Resources have
identified California WaterFix
as the new preferred alternative.
The project, which is a scaledback version of the original
BDCP, consists of a water
WaterFix Continued on page 11
8
Save Our Water Ramps
Up With Viral Campaign
july 24, 2015 • 1
ACWA News is a publication of
the Association of California
Water Agencies
Periodicals postage paid at
Sacramento, CA.
POSTMASTER: send address
changes and subscription
requests to ACWA News,
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President’s Column • John Coleman
Amid Drought, Some Good
News on Headwaters
With many of California’s forests facing
extreme wildfire risk this summer, ACWA
and other Western water interests are
cheering passage of H.R. 2647, the
Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2015, by
the House of Representatives earlier this
month.
The legislation would provide critical
tools to help safeguard California’s
future water supply reliability and water
quality. ACWA’s Headwaters Framework
identifies the need for such tools as well
as collaboration to help prevent highintensity fires that have a devastating
impact on watersheds and cause millions
of dollars in damage to habitat, reservoirs
and facilities.
Another welcome development is the
announcement of $130 million in federal drought assistance specifically for
restoration of
California’s
headwaters
and other key
waterways.
The funding — and a new designation of
several headwaters areas as federal Resilient
Lands and Waters sites — is part of a new
federal initiative focused on restoring these
critical areas to make them more resilient
to climate change.
ACWA continues to work with partners
such as the California Forest Watershed
Alliance and the National Water Resources
Association to elevate the importance of
these and other initiatives. The ongoing
drought makes it more important than
ever to focus attention on headwaters areas
that play a critical role in the reliability
and quality of our water supply.
Executive Director’s Column • Timothy Quinn
Long-Term Actions Still Key
to Water Future
Droughts tend to be an all-consuming
experience for water managers, and this
year for the vast majority of Californians.
But even as we navigate historic challenges
this year, we can’t lose focus on the longerterm actions that must move forward to
meet our 21st century water needs.
Delta conveyance improvements are a
prime example. As noted in the Statewide
Water Action Plan (SWAP) adopted by the
ACWA Board of Directors in September
2013 and formally endorsed by more than
100 ACWA member agencies, a Delta
solution that includes conveyance improvements is a critical component of a broader
set of actions to address water supply reliability and ecosystem health in California.
The recent release of revised
environmental documents for the
proposed conveyance project now known
as California WaterFix is an important
step forward
for a Delta
solution.
Long-term
Delta conveyance improvements are
needed to enhance the value of surface and
groundwater storage investments, better
management of our headwaters areas
and development of a more efficient and
effective water market — all of which are
key elements of ACWA’s SWAP.
It’s hard to imagine right now, but this
drought will end at some point. And we
will emerge from it as we have from others
— with new approaches and new ideas
for more effectively managing California
water. If we stay focused on long-term
actions and investments now, those new
approaches will help us assemble the
“all-of-the-above” strategy we need for the
future.
Brown Signs Budget Trailer Bill on Mandatory Consolidation of
Public Water Systems; New Clean-Up Legislation Pending
During the last week of June, Gov.
Jerry Brown’s administration moved
to advance several substantive public
policy changes through budget trailer
bills. One of the most significant
changes authorized the State Water
Resources Control Board to mandate
consolidations of public water systems
under certain circumstances.
Though the Administration had been
examining the consolidation issue
for some time, many in the water
community were surprised when
language granting consolidation
authority to the State Water Board
emerged on the Department of Finance’s
website and later was added to SB 88, a
budget trailer bill dealing with drought.
Coalition Formed
When the budget trailer bill language
on consolidation first surfaced,
ACWA quickly formed and led a local
government coalition opposing the
concept and supporting the current
process that leaves responsibility and
authority for consolidations at the local
level under the guidance of local agency
formation commissions.
ACWA was joined by several statewide
associations in opposing SB 88,
including the League of California
Cities, the California State Association
of Counties, the California Municipal
Utilities Association, the California
Special Districts Association, Rural
County Representatives of California,
the California Association of Local
Agency Formation Commissions,
and the California Association of
Sanitation Agencies.
Despite strong opposition and
hundreds of letters from ACWA
member agencies, SB 88 passed on a
strict party-line vote on both the Senate
and Assembly floors on June 19. The
governor signed the bill into law on
June 24.
The State Water Board is expected to
utilize its new consolidation authority
when a public water system, a small
water system serving a disadvantaged
unincorporated community or a mutual water system serving a disadvantaged
community consistently fails to provide
an adequate supply of safe drinking
water. The State Water Board may
order that system to consolidate with,
or receive an extension of service from,
another public water system (receiving system). Under the language of SB
88, the receiving system would not be
held liable for claims resulting from the
subsumed system’s actions prior to the
consolidation or extension of service.
Before ordering consolidation or extension of service, the State Water Board
must notify the systems, consult with
various entities, and allow time to negotiate another means of providing an
adequate supply of safe drinking water.
The State Water Board also must make
certain findings prior to mandating
consolidation or extension of service.
Clean-Up Bill Emerges
Due to the last-minute nature of
the budget trailer bill process, SB 88
contained some unintended errors and
omissions. Two weeks after the bill was
signed, the Administration announced
that it was supporting a clean-up bill,
SB 552 by Sen. Lois Wolk (D-Davis).
The Wolk bill would include mobile
home parks in incorporated or
unincorporated areas in the definition
of “disadvantaged community,”
expressly limit the authority of the State
Water Board to order consolidation
or extension of service only to a
disadvantaged community and not the
entire state, eliminate a public meeting
for potentially-subsumed domestic well
owners and limit their ability to obtain
grant funding if they do not provide
written consent, and authorize the
Public Utilities Commission and the
State Water Board to determine the fair
market value of a subsumed system and
prohibit fees or charges over and above
the costs of consolidating the subsumed
water system.
SB 552 is expected to undergo
additional amendments during the final
weeks before the Legislature adjourns
on Sept. 11.
For more information on this issue,
please contact Director of State
Relations Wendy Ridderbusch at
[email protected] or (916) 4414545.
july 24, 2015 • 3
Drought News Digest
Curtailments Issued for Senior
Water Right Holders on Merced
and Upper San Joaquin Rivers
Two weeks after announcing curtailments for 114 senior water right
holders in the Sacramento-San Joaquin
River and Delta watersheds, the State
Water Resources Control Board on
June 26 extended curtailments on the
Merced River to senior water rights
dating back to 1858 and to all pre1914 appropriative rights on the Upper
San Joaquin River watersheds.
The latest curtailments affect 11 senior
water right holders. Also on June 26,
the State Water Board announced a
curtailment notice was being issued to
the City of San Francisco for four appropriative water rights it holds on the
Tuolumne River dating back to 1903.
New Landscapes to Use Less
Water Under Model Ordinance
The California Water Commission
on July 15 adopted a revised model
landscape ordinance that requires yards
and commercial landscapes installed in
California after Dec. 1 to use up to a
third less water on average.
The new model ordinance, developed
by the California Department of Water
Resources, limits lawns in commercial settings to uses such as recreation
and public assembly, requires efficient
sprinkler nozzles in landscape irrigation
systems and, with some exceptions, bans
turf in street medians and parkways.
Statewide Water Use Declined
29% in May
Statewide residential water use declined
nearly 29% in May, the steepest drop
to date since urban water suppliers
began reporting monthly conservation
levels last year.
4 • ACWANEWS
Vol. 43 No. 7
The May figures, released by the
State Water Board on July 1, are an
improvement over the 13.6% reduction
achieved statewide in April. The
monthly figures reflect same-month
water use comparisons of 2015 to
2013. The State Water Board soon
will release the conservation figures for
June, the first month of mandatory
water cutbacks.
Impacts of Temperature Control
Plan for Salmon Explored
A proposed temperature management
plan for the Sacramento River could
result in historically low levels in two
key reservoirs and less water than
expected this summer for cities and
farms south of the Delta, members of
the State Water Board were told at a
daylong workshop on June 24.
The temperature management plan,
developed by state and federal officials
to preserve cool water behind Shasta
Dam to protect winter-run Chinook
salmon, was criticized harshly at the
workshop by several growers and
representatives from irrigation districts
and water districts south of the Delta
who said the proposed plan threatens
crops already planted and could unravel
water transfer deals.
Under the plan, flows from Folsom
reservoir would increase this summer
to ensure healthy salinity levels in the
Delta. Officials estimate Folsom Lake
could drop to 120,000 acre-feet by the
end of September. Lake Oroville also
could drop to historic-low levels last
seen in the fall of 1977, officials said.
State Water Board Reissues
Water Supply Notices Following
Court Ruling
In response to a recent court ruling, the
State Water Board on July 15 partially
rescinded and reissued water supply
availability notices to more than 4,600
holders of junior and senior water rights
to clarify that while previous notices
were only advisory, diverting water
where none is legally available could
result in significant penalties.
In response to Sacramento Superior
Court Judge Shelleyanne W. L.
Chang’s ruling July 10 calling some
of the State Water Board’s notices in
violation of due process, the State
Water Board reissued some notices to
clarify that there is no order to stop
taking water, but diversions when
there is no available water for groups
of diverters under their priority of
rights are unauthorized and subject to
enforcement.
On July 10, Chang granted a
temporary restraining order against
the State Water Board barring it
from “taking any action” to enforce
curtailment notices sent to West Side
Irrigation District, Central Delta Water
Agency, South Delta Water Agency and
Woods Irrigation Company.
Water Contractors File
Complaint Alleging Unlawful
Diversions
The State Water Contractors filed a
complaint June 16 requesting the State
Water Board take action to protect
State Water Project releases from
“substantial, unlawful” diversions in
the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta
by water diverters south of the San
Joaquin River.
Specifically, the SWC is seeking an
order requiring diverters south of the
San Joaquin River to stop diverting in
excess of their water rights.
ACWA-Sponsored Bills: SB 385 Moves to Floor, AB 291 Now 2-Year Bill
SB 385 (Hueso), an ACWA-sponsored
bill that would aid compliance with
the state’s chromium-6 drinking water
standard, cleared its final policy committee in the Assembly on July 15 and
now moves to the Assembly floor. AB
291 (Medina), which seeks to streamline California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) noticing requirements
for multicounty water projects, will
continue as a two-year bill.
Support Letters Requested for
SB 385
SB 385 would establish a carefully
monitored process for public water
systems to work toward and achieve
compliance with the chromium-6 standard. The measure would authorize the
State Water Resources Control Board
to grant a limited period of time for
affected water systems to work toward
achieving compliance without being
deemed in violation as long as strict
safeguards are met.
ACWA thanks member agencies that
have engaged on this bill and encourages
them to continue advocating for the
measure by sending letters to their Assembly members supporting SB 385 and
requesting an “aye” vote on the floor. A
copy of your final letter should also be
sent to ACWA by fax at (916) 325-4927
or emailed to [email protected].
For questions on SB 385, please contact
ACWA Deputy Executive Director for
Government Relations Cindy Tuck at
[email protected] or (916) 441-4545.
Work Continues on AB 291
ACWA continues to work with the
author’s office to address opposition to
AB 291, including concerns raised by
several environmental groups about the
potential shortening of the timeframe
for physical posting of notifications at
the county level.
As amended June 10, AB 291 would
require local agencies to submit a
CEQA notice of determination to the
Office of Planning and Research for
posting on the CEQAnet website. Local agencies also would be required to
file the notice with the county clerk in
their home county and send a copy by
certified mail to each county affected
by the water project.
The provisions are aimed at reducing
confusion and administrative burdens
under current CEQA notification
requirements for projects, such as water
transfers, that can address pressing
water needs during droughts.
ACWA thanks the many member
agencies that are supporting AB 291
and will provide updates on significant
developments. ACWA also appreciates
the author for his efforts to date and
future work on this issue.
For questions about AB 291, please
contact ACWA Legislative Advocate
Whitnie Wiley at whitniew@acwa.
com.
DWR Releases Draft Regulations on Groundwater Basin Boundaries
The California Department of Water
Resources on July 17 opened the public
comment period on proposed draft
emergency regulations that will outline
the process local agencies must follow
when requesting modifications to existing boundaries of groundwater basins
and subbasins.
The draft basin boundary regulations
also identify the methodology and
criteria that will be applied by DWR
when reviewing and approving the
modification requests. In general, local
agencies will be required to address all
of the following:
•
•
How to assess the likelihood
that the proposed basin can be
sustainably managed.
How to assess whether the proposed
basin would limit the sustainable
management of adjacent basins.
•
How to assess whether there is
a history of sustainable management of groundwater levels in the
proposed basin.
DWR is required to adopt emergency
regulations by Jan. 1, 2016.
ACWA remains actively engaged on the
issue. ACWA member agencies with
questions may contact ACWA Special
Projects Manager David Bolland at
[email protected].
The public comment period on
the draft regulations began July 17
and will close Sept. 4. For copies
of the draft regulations, additional
information, and to learn more
specifics on how to comment visit
DWR’s Basin Boundary Revision
webpage at water.ca.gov/groundwater/
sgm/basin_boundaries.cfm.
Copies of the draft regulations can be
received by mail by contacting Lauren
Bisnett at (916) 653-7564 or Lauren.
[email protected].
DWR will be hosting three required
public meetings for public comment
on the draft regulations. Information
on the meetings is available online.
Comments must be received
electronically or postmarked by Sept.
4. Email to: [email protected]
Mail to: California Department of
Water Resources, Attn: Sustainable
Groundwater Management Section,
P.O. Box 942836, Sacramento, CA
94236.
For more information regarding
the draft basin boundary revision
regulations please contact Steven
Springhorn at (916) 651-9273 or
[email protected].
july 24, 2015 • 5
ACWA-Led Advocacy on Drinking Water Program Funding Proposal
Results in Safeguards for State Water Board Fee Authority
Gov. Jerry Brown signed a budget
trailer bill on June 24 that included
significant changes to state law governing how the state’s Drinking Water
Program (DWP) is funded. After advocacy from an ACWA-led coalition, the
version of SB 83 signed into law was
much improved relative to the Brown
Administration’s original proposal.
Background on Drinking Water
Fees
Early in 2015, the State Water
Resources Control Board signaled
that the existing fee structure was
not generating sufficient revenue to
support the program. The Legislature
had established many years back a feefor-service approach for large public
water systems (systems that serve
1,000 or more service connections).
The Legislature set a cap on the total
amount of these fees for fiscal year
2001-’02 at $7 million. At the same
time, the Legislature enacted a 5% cap
on annual increases to those fees.
Had the Department of Public Health
(DPH) increased those fees each year
while it was implementing the DWP,
the cap for FY 2014-’15 for large
systems would have been over $13
million.
By April of this year, the projected
expenditures for large water systems for
FY 2014-’15 was $15.4 million, with
the difference between fee revenue and
expenditures being covered by federal
funding. Several factors contributed
to the level of expenditures, including
increases in employee compensation
packages.
Administration Proposal
Earlier this year, the Administration
proposed to repeal many of the existing
fee provisions – including the fee-forservice approach, the cap on the total
6 • ACWANEWS
Vol. 43 No. 7
After negotiations at the Capitol, the final version of the language,
which is now state law, includes important safeguards for the fee
structure. In short, SB 83 does the following:
1) Maintains a fee-for-service approach for large water systems for FY
2015-’16;
2) Includes a cap on large system fees for FY 2015-’16 set at
$15,938,000;
3) Requires the State Water Board to develop a new fee schedule for FY
2016-’17 through the full APA rulemaking process;
4) Sets a cap on total funds received for state operations program
costs (covering both large and small systems) for FY 2016-’17 at
$30,450,000;
5) Sets a 5% cap on annual increases in those total funds received; and
6) Requires setting of the fee schedule in subsequent fiscal years by
emergency regulation.
fees for large systems and the cap on
annual increases. The Administration
also proposed adopting changes to the
fee schedule through the emergency
regulation process, as opposed to
through the full Administrative
Procedures Act (APA) process, which
is more transparent and allows
stakeholders an increased opportunity
to provide input.
draft alternative proposal. ACWA then
further developed that proposal jointly
with the California Municipal Utilities
Association and the California Water
Association. The three associations
worked together with ACWA members
as a coalition in the budget process
to express concerns about the budget
trailer bill proposal and to advance the
alternative proposal.
ACWA’s State Legislative Committee
had strong concerns with the proposal
because of the proposed removal of all
the safeguards for the fee authority. The
committee did, however, agree with
the Administration that the DWP is a
critical program that needs adequate
funding.
In significant part, the alternative
proposal recommended:
Alternative Proposal
ACWA requested a background paper
from the State Water Board so it
could provide constructive input on
the issue. After receiving and reviewing the background paper provided
by the State Water Board, the State
Legislative Committee developed a
3) Using the full APA rulemaking
process for the adoption of the fee
schedule.
1) Maintaining a fee-for-service
approach for large water systems;
2) Increasing the cap on large water
systems to $15. 4 million for FY
2015-’16; and
ACWA will continue to work with the
State Water Board as it considers how
to change the DWP fee structure for
FY 2016-’17.
Delta-Mendota Canal Delivers Water Uphill
Nine temporary pumps are reversing
the flow of a 62-mile stretch of the
Delta-Mendota Canal in order to
send water back upstream to several
water districts and the City of Tracy.
Completed in early July, the innovative
reverse flow project was deemed
necessary due to the state’s ongoing
drought and the canal’s compromised
ability to deliver sufficient water.
The Delta-Mendota Canal, part of the
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s Central
Valley Project operated by the San Luis
& Delta-Mendota Water Authority,
typically carries water southeasterly
from the C.W. “Bill” Jones Pumping
Plant down to the Mendota Pool,
located at the confluence of the San
Joaquin River and the north fork of the
Kings River.
On a temporary basis, the new pumps
will convey water from San Luis
Reservoir to upstream water districts
facing water shortages.
The SLDMWA developed the DeltaMendota Canal Reverse Flow Project
with cooperation from the Bureau after
it became clear that drought conditions,
coupled with pumping restrictions and
reduced releases from Shasta Dam,
would leave the CVP contractors
without enough water.
“These emergency pumping plants
were designed and installed within
three weeks of inception by the
San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water
Authority staff in order to meet the
emergency needs of providing water to
our Water Contractors,” said Frances
Mizuno, assistant executive director of
SLDMWA. “Everyone pulled together
and made it all happen. I am so
impressed and proud of our staff.” Officials at agencies receiving the water
also were grateful.
“This was an amazingly efficient effort
by all involved to roll up our sleeves
and solve a last minute challenge that
had the potential to cause hundreds of
millions of dollars worth of loss not only
to the current years’ local agricultural
economy, but to the long-term investments of our landowners in permanent
crops,” said Anthea Hansen, general
manager for Del Puerto Water District. According to project documents, water
released from the San Luis Reservoir
into O’Neill Forebay will be pumped
in reverse and delivered to CVP contractors in the north, while the upper
portion of the canal will continue to
operate normally. Byron-Bethany Irrigation District, Banta-Carbona Irrigation
District, City of Tracy, Del Puerto Water
District, Patterson Irrigation District,
West Stanislaus Irrigation District, San
Luis Water District, and Central California Irrigation District will all receive
water from the reverse flow project.
The SLDMWA estimates the project will cost the participating water
districts $500,000 per month just to
power the pumps and keep the reverse
flow moving a total of 18 feet uphill.
Peter Rietkerk, general manager for
Patterson Irrigation District, praised
the project.
“Our district and other Upper DMC
districts with San Joaquin River
water rights were threatened with
curtailments this year and relying
on stored water from the San Luis
Reservoir was the only contingency
plan available to meet critical crop
demands,” said Rietkerk. .
Conservation Continued from page 1
which he called a “hindrance to aggressive tiered pricing.”
Ellen Hanak, senior fellow with the
Public Policy Institute of California, said
local agencies could do a better job of
communicating to customers the fixed
costs of producing water. She added that
the recent San Juan Capistrano decision that deemed that city’s tiered water
pricing structure in violation of Prop.
218 — while concisely written in some
areas — gave the impression that water
pricing is a “precise science” when it is in
fact somewhat complicated.
Hanak also said it would be helpful for
the state to collect data on the types of
pricing structures water agencies have
adopted so there would be a clearinghouse of information.
David Bolland, special projects manager
for ACWA, testified that every local water agency has unique circumstances that
come into play in its pricing of water.
“This is about location, location,
location…,” said Bolland. “This is
about the local agencies doing this
work and setting the price signals.”
ACWA submitted a comment letter to
the State Water Board in advance of the
workshop outlining suggested roles the
board may take to help agencies adopt
effective pricing structures. Those roles
include acting as a clearinghouse for
information, public education and
funding.
Stacy Taylor, communications manager
at Mesa Water District, described how
her district uses a volumetric approach
to pricing, where each unit of water is
priced the same.
resource
Comment letter: www.acwa.com/
sites/default/files/post/2015/07/
acwa-comments_-swrcb-conservationpricing-7-1-15_final.pdf
july 24, 2015 • 7
Save Our Water Ramps up with Viral
Campaign, New PSAs, Media Placement
With a $4 million infusion from the
2015-’16 state budget, Save Our Water’s
summer campaign is in full swing with
media buys in targeted areas, a viral
social media campaign and a new public
service announcement featuring San
Francisco Giants star Sergio Romo.
during this historic drought. The
partnership is highlighting tips at
www.saveourwater.com/tree for both
residents and agencies on how to water
and care for trees so they survive the
drought and thrive.
The phased summer campaign, which
is tailored to support urban water
conservation in communities with
the highest state-mandated reduction
targets, emphasizes the need for immediate reductions in water use with a
sharp focus on outdoor irrigation and
limiting irrigation of ornamental turf.
Toyota dealerships in Northern California also are partnering with Save Our
Water to help conserve water in the state
through a new program called, “The
Wash Can Wait.” The program offers
customers the opportunity to opt out of
a complimentary car wash following a
service appointment, with a goal of saving 20 million gallons of water.
A key feature is the new “Saving
Together” viral campaign, designed to
encourage Californians to shoot a selfie
and share their water saving efforts
on social media and encourage their
friends to do the same, using the hashtag
#KeepSavingCA. “Saving Together” already is gaining traction with actors such
as Amelia Rose Blair from MTV and is
prominently featured on the Save Our
Water website at saveourwater.com.
In early June, ACWA on behalf of Save
Our Water worked with FM3 Research
to conduct a survey on attitudes around
water conservation. The poll of 800
California voters was targeted to those
living in water districts with the highest
water-reduction targets as identified
by the State Water Resources Control
Board. The data is being used to frame
messaging for the statewide Save Our
Water program.
Other components of the summer
campaign include digital media, smallscale billboards, theatre ads, and radio
spots in targeted areas.
The survey results clearly show that concern about the drought and awareness of
the new water-reduction targets is nearly
universal, even in areas with the highest conservation targets. Overwhelming majorities are both familiar with
California’s mandatory reduction targets
(91%) and support the state’s overall
package of water conservation requirements (82%). Three-quarters (76%)
report having reduced their water use
during the current drought. However, a
majority (51%) reports that, realistically,
they have already done what they can
and are unlikely to further reduce their
water use this summer.
Save Our Water also has rolled out a
full-scale Spanish-language website
and has ramped up Spanish-language
marketing to account for 25% of its
total media buy.
The 30-second PSA with the Giants’
Romo is airing on Comcast SportsNet
in Northern California. A shorter
15-second version will air in AT&T
Park, and Spanish-language versions
are in development. Visit www.
saveourwater.com to see the new PSA,
produced in partnership with the Bay
Area Council.
Save Our Water also has partnered with
California ReLeaf, a statewide urban
forest nonprofit, to raise awareness
of the importance of proper tree care
8 • ACWANEWS
Vol. 43 No. 7
Survey highlights are available in the
Save Our Water toolkit at saveourwater.
com/toolkit/.
ACWA members are encouraged to
utilize the all-new Save Our Water
toolkit and other resources available on
Save Our Water’s new “Saving Together”
viral campaign is designed to encourage
Californians to shoot a selfie and
share their water saving efforts on
social media and ask their friends
to do the same using the hashtag
#KeepSavingCalifornia. Top: A CalFire
captain shares his conservation selfie.
Middle: Actress Amelia Rose Blair
encourages her friends and followers
to conserve in her selfie. Bottom: San
Francisco Giants Pitcher Sergio Romo
pitches the notion of water conservation
in a public service announcement.
saveourwater.com, and to partner with
the program on local media buys.
ACWA manages the Save Our Water
program in partnership with the
California Department of Water
Resources.
Water Technology Summit Explores New Tools for Water Future
Leaders from a wide array of industries
— including government, water,
agriculture and technology — gathered
in Sacramento July 10 for a water
technology summit that explored
how technological advances will help
improve California’s water future across
all sectors.
The Water Technology & California
Drought Summit, co-sponsored by
ACWA and Imagine H2O, examined
in depth how advanced technology can
provide efficiencies in the water field.
Several speakers cautioned, however,
that technology alone cannot solve
the state’s water challenges. It must be
coupled with new thinking, collaboration, better data tracking and reliable
financing mechanisms. More than 300
people attended the conference.
Assembly Member Marc Levine (D-San
Rafael) delivered the opening address
and called for new ways of thinking
about water statewide and noted the
need for increased recycled water use
and rainwater capture to expand the
state’s water supplies.
“We have the tools to be smarter about
how we plan for and use water,” Levine
said. “While none of us can make it
rain, I’m confident that the minds in
this room can make the most of every
drop of water.”
Drought Brings Heightened
Awareness
California Natural Resources Secretary
John Laird said the drought has heightened awareness around water.
“Californians are paying attention…
this doesn’t often happen in water,”
said Laird. He added that we have an
opportunity to make real progress using
the technology available to us. Laird
moderated discussions that highlighted
agricultural water challenges and innovations, residential water conservation
progress since the 1970s, and emerg-
ing technologies that will continue to
advance water efficiency in all sectors.
Several speakers focused on water
efficiencies in agriculture. California
Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen
Ross said the agricultural sector
“needs education, training, technical
assistance and incentives to better apply
technology.”
Leaders from local water districts also
spoke about how their districts are embracing technology. East Bay Municipal Utility District General Manager
Alexander Coate said his district is
“applying technology day-to-day across
our operations…from leak detection to
customer water use budgets.” He noted
the importance of technologies such as
automated metering infrastructure and
geographic information systems and
satellite imagery to assess water use.
Implementing New Technologies
Following the opening session, summit
attendees broke out into “deep-dive”
sessions to discuss topics ranging from
desalination and water recycling to
the water-energy nexus. During the
afternoon plenary session Sen. Bob
Wieckowski (D-Fremont) delivered
opening remarks. Inland Empire Utilities Agency General Manager Joseph
Grindstaff participated in a panel that
explored some of the current challenges
to expanding current water technologies and how to prioritize and implement new technologies.
“There are opportunities all around us
to do things better,” said Grindstaff.
Jennifer West, managing director of
WateReuse California, talked about
how “public acceptance is critical to the
advancement of recycled water.”
“Potable reuse projects are increasing
and will continue to do so as the public
becomes more accepting,” said West.
California Natural Resources
Secretary John Laird talks about the
public’s heightened awareness of
water during the Water Technology
& The California Drought Summit
July 10 in Sacramento. Laird said
the increased public focus on water
is an opportunity for progress.
Other speakers talked of water use
efficiencies and technologies that will
help the state with water challenges
now and in the future.
Water a Priority for Brown
Administration
Wade Crowfoot, deputy cabinet
secretary and senior advisor in the
office of Gov. Jerry Brown, told
attendees that “water is a priority for
the Brown Administration for the long
haul.”
“We need a strategic plan to better
advance technology as it is applied
to water...,” Crowfoot added.
“Technology is a piece of the overall
water picture but is not the solution
alone. We lag behind on how best to
scale up technology in a decentralized
water system. The state has a role
in this and we need to continue the
discussion around what’s next.”
At the start of the summit, Crowfoot
thanked ACWA for being a “critical
partner of local government” during
the drought.
july 24, 2015 • 9
Federal Issues: Drought, Headwaters Bills Advance in Congress
The U.S. House of Representatives
on July 16 approved a bill designed to
alleviate water shortages brought on
by California’s ongoing drought. The
bill, H.R. 2898, the Western Water and
American Food Security Act of 2015,
sponsored by Rep. David Valadao (R21), passed the House by a vote of 245176, largely along party lines, with Rep.
Jim Costa (D-16) the sole Democratic
member of California’s Congressional
delegation voting to support it.
The bill is designed to increase water
flows by mandating the volume of
water that the federal government is
obligated to push through the Central
Valley Project. By so doing, the bill
is confronting head on suggestions
that the Obama Administration has
been prioritizing the water needs of
endangered fish populations over those
of humans. Water flows could only be
restricted to assist fish populations if
there were concerns about extinction
and all other measures had been
exhausted.
“Congress cannot make it rain but
we can enact policies that expand our
water infrastructure, allow for more
water conveyance, and utilize legitimate
science to ensure a reliable water supply
for farmers and families,” Valadao said
in a statement.
Democrats pushed back against such
criticism, portraying it as opportunism
on the part of Republicans, who have
long held reform of the Endangered
Species Act in their sights.
“This bill is a major disappointment
to me, to the people of California, and
to the 90% of Americans who think
the Endangered Species Act is worth
preserving,” Rep. Raúl Grijalva (DAriz.), ranking member on the House
Natural Resources Committee, said in
a statement.
The measure now heads to the Senate,
where passage is uncertain. The White
10 • ACWANEWS
Vol. 43 No. 7
House has threatened to veto the
measure.
Headwaters-Wildfire Legislation
Advancing
The House on July 9 also passed
ACWA- supported H.R. 2647, the
Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2015.
Upon passage, ACWA Executive Director Timothy Quinn said, “With many
of the state’s headwaters increasingly
at risk of wildfires, action is needed to
help safeguard California’s future water
supply reliability and water quality.
This legislation provides vital tools for
us to actively manage our forests and
protect our precious water supply.”
H.R. 2647 would work within
existing federal authorities to expedite
forest management activities in the
National Forest System and Bureau
of Land Management to promote
healthy, resilient forests and prevent
high intensity wildfires. It incentivizes
collaboration with the private sector for
management activities and would end
the practice of transferring money out
of vital U.S. Forest Service programs
and services in order to fund wildfire
suppression costs.
On the Senate side, on July 16 the
Senate Subcommittee on Public Lands,
Forests and Mining held a hearing on
S. 1691, the National Forest Ecosystem
Improvement Act of 2015. The hearing
explored many issues, including how
to increase the pace and scale of forest
restoration, fix “fire borrowing” where
the Forest Service raids other funds
to pay for fire suppression, whether
arbitration could help reduce frivolous
lawsuits and best ways to streamline
permitting under the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
To help provide input to the legislative
process, ACWA is participating in the
California Forest Watershed Alliance
(CAFWA) along with the California
Farm Bureau Federation, California
Forestry Association, Rural County
Representatives of California and
The Nature Conservancy, California
Chapter. ACWA member Steve
LaMar, president of the Irvine Ranch
Water District, is chairing ACWA’s
Headwaters Task Force.
House Appropriation Process
Stalls
Debate over displaying the confederate flag on federal lands has slowed
the passage of House appropriations
bills. On July 9 the House Interior and
Environment 2016 Appropriations bill,
H.R. 2822, was pulled from the House
floor after almost a full week of debate.
Southern Republicans refused to vote
for the bill unless an amendment was
added clarifying that the confederate
flag could still be displayed on certain
federal lands. Speaker John Boehner
(R-Ohio) chose to remove the bill from
floor consideration rather than have his
party vote on this amendment.
House leadership also chose to delay the
other appropriations bills scheduled to
come to the floor this month because
they too could have been a vehicle
for more debates over the confederate
flag. The House had been on pace to
complete all 12 appropriation bills
before the fiscal year ends on Sept. 30.
However it now appears likely that there
will need to be a continuing resolution
to keep the government funded in the
next fiscal year.
California Headwaters Designated Resilient Lands and Waters
Citing the far-reaching benefits of
healthy watersheds and headwaters
— particularly during drought —
top-ranking state and federal officials
on June 25 announced a new $150
million federal drought relief package
that includes $130 million for the
restoration of California’s headwaters
and other key waterways.
Officials also announced details of
the recent designation of California’s
headwaters, North-Central Coast and
Russian River Watershed as federal
Resilient Lands and Waters sites,
making them part of a federal initiative
focused on conserving and restoring
designated land and waters to make
them more resilient to climate change.
The announcement was welcomed
by ACWA, which has prioritized
watershed restoration and issued
a Headwaters Framework policy
document in March that outlines
recommendations aimed at preserving
California’s source waters.
ACWA Executive Director Timothy
Quinn applauded the funding and the
designation.
“At a time when California is working
to manage every drop of water amid
record drought, we are pleased to see
California’s headwaters areas receive
this designation as part of the Resilient
Lands and Waters initiative,” Quinn
said. “This designation will elevate the
importance of collaborative partnerships and help leverage opportunities
to landscape-scale demonstrations
and research. Given the severity of the
drought and the risk of more destructive wildlife this summer, we must
focus attention on these upstream
headwaters areas and pursue strategies
that can improve water quality and supply conditions now.”
The relief package — in addition to its
watershed and headwaters restoration
funds — also includes $13.7 million to
assist agricultural producers with water
infrastructure support as well as $6.3
million for emergency drinking water
assistance in rural communities.
Waterfix Continued from page 1
conveyance facility with three new
intakes on the Sacramento River and
dual tunnels to convey water to existing
state and federal pumping plants.
The environmental impact report
and environmental impact statement
recirculated July 9 analyze only the
portions of the BDCP that have been
altered significantly since the original
environmental review period closed
last summer. The initial description of
California WaterFix was first released
in April.
In a media call July 13, DWR Director
Mark Cowin called California WaterFix
a “very realistic, science-driven and
achievable approach” for fixing the Bay
Delta.
“The status quo in the Delta is not
sustainable and ultimately not good for
California,” said Cowin. “We would
be remiss if we didn’t try to fix the
system.”
Cowin said the project is a critical step
in improving water reliability throughout the state. It also is a key piece of
the Gov. Jerry Brown’s California Water
Action Plan, a statewide template for
water improvements.
The footprint for the Bay Delta project
has shrunk by 50% since 2013 and
now allows for gravity-driven flow of
water, which eliminates the need for
additional power lines. The project’s
habitat restoration also has been separated out into a second project known
as California EcoRestore. California
EcoRestore accelerates restoration of
30,000 acres of Delta habitat over the
next five years to protect native Delta
fish and wildlife species.
Under the new preferred alternative,
state and federal agencies are not
seeking a 50-year permit to operate the
project.
Jeffrey Kightlinger, general manager of
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, said in a statement that
release of the new documents marked
the last planning milestone before a
final plan will be produced for MWD
and other agencies to consider.
“Metropolitan and other public water
agencies have invested nearly a quarterbillion dollars in this process because
California simply had no other plan to
reliably deliver water to two-thirds of
California and to restore the Delta,”
said Kightlinger.
Maureen Stapleton, general manager of
the San Diego County Water Authority, said her agency is committed to
a Bay-Delta solution and will review
the new set of documents and likely
provide formal comment.
“The future of the Bay-Delta is important to all Californians, as is the strategy that the state adopts to address the
Bay-Delta’s many costly and complex
environmental and water supply challenges,” Stapleton said in a statement.
Two public meetings have been scheduled to provide more information.
• Sacramento: Tuesday, July 28 from
3 – 7 p.m. at the Sheraton Grand
Sacramento Hotel
• Walnut Grove: Wednesday, July 29
from 3 – 7 p.m. at the Jean Harvie
Senior and Community Center
Written comments may also been
submitted by mail or email until
August 31.
For more information please
visit baydeltaconservationplan.
com/2015PublicReview.aspx.
july 24, 2015 • 11
ACWA Seeks
Legislative
Proposals for
Second Half of
Session
ACWA is seeking legislative
proposals from its member
agencies for the second half
of the 2015-’16 legislative
session.
The deadline to submit proposals is Friday, Sept. 4. The
association’s State Legislative
Committee will hear presentations and consider proposals at its meeting Oct. 23 in
Sacramento.
Agencies interested in submitting legislative proposals
for ACWA to sponsor or
support next year should take
the following steps:
•
•
•
Complete the Legislative
Proposal Form available
at www.acwa.com/sites/
default/files/news/statebudget-fees/2015/06/legproposal-form-2015.pdf .
Obtain a resolution
passed by the agency’s
governing body in
support of the proposal
(or at a minimum have
noticed by Sept. 5 for
consideration of the
resolution).
Submit all proposals and
resolutions by Sept. 4 to
ACWA State Relations
Assistant Katie Almand.
Agencies submitting proposals will be contacted by
ACWA staff to schedule a
presentation at the Oct. 23
committee meeting. Contact
Katie Almand at katiea@
acwa.com with any questions
or comments.
12 • ACWANEWS
Ballots Emailed for Region Board Elections;
Voting Begins July 31 for 2016-’17 Term
Sept. 30 is Deadline to Vote for Chairs, Vice Chairs, Board Members
ACWA’s region
ACWA Region nominating
committees will
Elections announce their
recommended slates
for ACWA’s 10 region boards by issuing an
official ballot to all agency general managers
and board presidents on July 31. Votes can
be cast starting July 31 and must be returned
by Sept. 30. The election results reflecting
the new region boards for the 2016-’17 term
will be announced Oct. 5.
Each ballot will contain the recommended
slate, candidates listed by position, and voting instructions. Each agency is entitled to
cast only one vote for its Region Board and
must have an authorized person sign the
ballot before it’s returned to ACWA.
Your Agency Vote is Very Important:
The region board members are elected to
represent the issues, concerns and needs of
your region. The region chair and vice chair
will serve on ACWA’s Board of Directors for
a two-year term of office. The newly elected
chair will communicate the region board’s
committee recommendations to the ACWA
President for the 2016-’17 term. Either the
chair or vice chair will serve on the ACWA
Finance Committee.
If you have any questions, contact Regional
Affairs Representatives Katie Dahl (katied@
acwa.com) or Brandon Ida (brandoni@
acwa.com) or call (916) 441-4545.
Additional region election information is
available online at www.acwa.com/content/
region-elections.
DWR Announces Water and Energy Grants
The California Department of Water
Resources on June 24 announced its first
round of grants using proceeds from California’s cap-and-trade program, awarding
$28 million to 22 agencies to help fund
projects designed to save water and energy
and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
All told, the 25 funded projects will save
an estimated 270,000 acre-feet of water
and prevent the release of approximately
199,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas
emissions. Over 70% of the funding
will provide benefits to disadvantaged
communities, according to a press release
from DWR. The projects are targeted for
investments from the Greenhouse Gas
Reduction Fund.
The projects include the installation of
water meters for Merced residents that
can be read and tracked by satellite, the
Vol. 43 No. 7
design and installation of a smart irrigation
control system for 18 Bakersfield parks and
distribution of water conservation toolkits
to households in the small Tulare County
town of Alpaugh.
The full list of awards is at www.water.
ca.gov/waterenergygrant/awards.cfm.
The projects are part of the California
Climate Investments program, a broad
multi-agency state initiative to invest
proceeds from the cap-and-trade program
in California projects that directly reduce
greenhouse gases and provide additional
benefits. An additional $9 million in local
assistance funding was authorized as part of
the 2015 drought legislation.
DWR announced draft funding recommendations in March and considered public
comments on those proposals.
ACWA Provides Drought Response Communications Toolkit
In an effort to provide one-stop
shopping to members seeking to ramp
up public outreach on the drought and
mandatory water restrictions, ACWA
has prepared a Drought Response
Toolkit with a broad array of in-depth
and concise communications materials.
The toolkit — with fact sheets, message
points and other resources — may be
modified by member agencies to fit
local needs. Many of the suggested
actions and resources in the toolkit
were identified during a special webinar
series sponsored by ACWA in May in
partnership with the Governor’s Office,
the State Water Resources Control
Board and other organizations.
The toolkit contains:
• Drought Conditions and Statistics
• Drought Response Action Checklist
• Facts about California’s Water System
• Myths About California’s Drought
• Fast Facts on the Value of Water
Service
• Message Points on Water Rate
Increases
• Message Points on New
Development and Drought
• 2015 Drought Resources List
• State Water Board Emergency
Conservation Regulations
Infographic
Members may download the
entire toolkit at www.acwa.com/
droughtresponsetoolkit. A member login is required.
For questions or help in customizing the
resources for your agency, please contact Lisa Lien-Mager, ACWA communications director, at (916) 441-4545.
ns
EmErgEncy WatEr consErvation rEgulatio
ProhibitEd for
EvEryonE
rEquirEd for
WatEr suPPliErs
• Usingpotablewatertowashsidewalks&
driveways
• Achievedesignatedconservationstandard
(4%-36%)
• Runoffwhenirrigatingwithpotablewater
• Notifycustomersaboutleaksthatare
withinthecustomer’scontrol
• Usinghoseswithnoshutoffnozzlesto
washcars
• Usingpotablewaterindecorativewater
featuresthatdonotrecirculatethewater
• Reportonwateruse,compliance&
enforcement
businEssEs
• Usingoutdoorirrigationduring&48
hoursfollowingmeasurableprecipitation
rEquirEd for
• Usingpotablewatertoirrigate
ornamentalturfonpublicstreetmedians
• Restaurantsandotherfoodservice
establishmentscanonlyservewaterto
customersonrequest
• Usingpotablewatertoirrigatelandscapes
ofnewhomes&buildingsinconsistent
withnewstaterequirements
• Hotelsandmotelsmustprovideguests
withtheoptionofnothavingtowels&
linenslaundereddaily
ACWA’s Drought Response Gallery Adding Member-Agency
“Drought Busters” Daily to its Online Bulletin Board
With new agencies being added daily,
ACWA’s unique new Drought Response Gallery showcases participating
members and provides information
about agency’s conservation activities
including water restrictions, outreach,
rebates, tools and more. Similar to a Pinterest-type online bulletin board, the gallery displays miniprofiles of agencies (or cards), agency
logos, an agency image, a short text
summary of conservation activities
and icons indicating drought response
actions in five categories. The categories
are: restrictions and enforcements, outreach and education, rebates and incentives, new consumer tools and devices,
and system/operational efficiencies.
Joining the gallery is free, quick and
easy. Interested members must com-
plete a short survey and ACWA staff
will create your agency card using the
information you provide. A confirmation email will be sent to let you know
when your agency card is on display.
With more than 65 participating
agencies, ACWA is promoting
the gallery on Twitter and
dubbing participating agencies
#DroughtBusters. ACWA members
with Twitter accounts are encouraged
to use the #DroughtBusters hashtag.
The gallery is linked to
ACWA’s Drought Spotlight
page and can be accessed directly
at droughtresponse.acwa.com.
Questions about completing the
survey or features of the Drought
Response Gallery may be directed to
ACWA Communications Specialist
Emily Allshouse at (916) 441-4545
or [email protected].
resource
Survey: outreach.acwa.com/site/
Survey?ACTION_REQUIRED=URI_
ACTION_USER_REQUESTS&SURVEY_
ID=2780
july 24, 2015 • 13
Spotlight
Rancho California Water District Hits the Big 5-O;
Embraces New Technology and Conservation
District
facts
Location
Temecula
Number of Customers
Served
Over 37,000
residential customers
and nearly 1,611
commercial users
Water Source
Groundwater,
recycled water, and
imported water from
the Colorado River
and Sacramento-San
Joaquin Bay Delta
Notable Projects
• Vail Lake acquisition
and preservation
• Water shortage
contingency plan
• Water use efficiency
programs
• MyWaterTracker
Website
www.ranchowater.com
Like a growing number of Baby Boomers
across the nation, Rancho California Water
District hits the Big 5-0 this year – Aug. 16 to
be exact. For half a century, the water district
headquartered in Temecula has evolved from
serving a small, rural community to providing
water to an expansive area of 156 square
miles and a population of more than 147,000
people.
As it shifts into its second half-century on the
road to the 100-year mark, Rancho Water —
as it calls itself in shorthand — is embracing
new technology to help customers conserve
water and plan expenses. The district also
has adopted a diverse array of water supplies
and approaches to meet the needs of a 21st
century water provider.
“As we plan for the future, challenges
continue to face us. Whether they be
supplying water to an increasing population,
meeting stricter water quality regulations,
dealing with drought conditions, or
protecting our water resources, we are
committed to meeting these challenges with
the same dedication and sense of purpose as
those who founded the district 50 years ago,”
said Rancho California Water District Board
of Directors President John Hoagland. Small District Consolidates and
Grows
Rancho Water got its launch in 1965 when
the developers of the Temecula/Rancho
California community — Kaiser Corporation
and Macco Realty Company — formed the
Rancho California Water District over 41,000
acres in the eastern part of the community.
The Santa Rosa Ranches Water District
formed in 1968 to serve the westerly part of
the community. In 1977, Rancho Water and
Santa Rosa Ranches were consolidated into
Rancho California Water District. Land areas
in the district were designated as the Rancho
District and the Santa Rosa Division.
Rancho Water has made some key moves
in working to secure its water supply. One
such move was the 1978 acquisition of
the Vail Dam and its associated water. The
district uses water stored in Vail Lake to help
recharge the groundwater basin that provides
approximately 25% to 40% of its water
supply. A healthy store of groundwater is one
way the district secures a reliable water supply
that is insulated from imported water price
increases. The district also purchased the land
around Vail Lake to allow it to better steward
the resources of the watershed.
Since its formation in 1965, Rancho Water
has grown from serving a small community
to a population of more than 147,000
people. Left: The very first structure owned
by what is now Rancho Water stood alone
on the district’s rural land near Temecula in
1965. Right: Members of Rancho Water’s
Board of Directors study a map of the
district’s land in 1985.
Embracing Technology to Help
Customers Plan and Conserve
As California’s drought drags on, Rancho
Water moved into stage 4a of its water
contingency plan. Under the State Water
Resources Control Board’s new water
conservation mandates, it must cut its water
usage by 36% over 2013 usage. To help
achieve that goal, on July 1, the district
launched MyWaterTracker, an online tool
that allows customers to log onto their district
accounts and track in near real-time their
current water usage. Customers can then
compare usage with a water budget for the
month that is designed to help them achieve
targeted cutbacks.
The district also has implemented a bill
estimator intended to help customers better
understand their bills. The online tool allows
customers to look at their possible future bills
from the perspectives of proposed new rates,
or stage 4a reductions, and get a sense of their
costs under these scenarios.
In addition to these new online tools, Rancho
Water is going full throttle to embrace every
method of incentivizing water conservation.
It runs an expansive rebate program, offering
rebates for everything from turf removal to
weather-based irrigation controllers to highefficiency toilets. The district also offers water
use efficiency evaluations where a trained
district staff will go to customers’ homes to
check their meters and explain additional
ways to cut water usage.
Anniversary Celebrations
Rancho Water plans to honor its hitting the
half-century mark with a special luncheon
on its premises Aug. 13 at 11:30 a.m. Food
trucks will be on hand and local elected
officials, their staff and Rancho Water staff are
expected to attend the brief presentation and
event. The local Chamber of Commerce also
is planning a mixer Aug. 9 in honor of the
district’s 50th.
Top Left: Among the
district’s many water
conservation efforts is
its aggressive public
outreach touting its
successful Cash for Grass
program, advertised in
this flyer. Top Right: The
district acquired Vail Dam
and the land surrounding
Vail Lake — and its
associated water — in
1978.
Matthew Stone, general manager of
Rancho Water, said the 50th anniversary
is a distinct moment in time to mark the
accomplishments of the district.
“Celebrating 50 years of providing high
quality and reliable water service to our
customers is a milestone Rancho California
Water District takes pride in achieving,” said
Stone.
“As we plan for the future, challenges continue to face us. ... we are
committed to meeting these challenges with the same dedication and
sense of purpose as those who founded the district 50 years ago.” —
Rancho California Board of Directors President John Hoagland
july 24, 2015 • 15
Capitol Hearing Explores Fish, Flows and Marijuana Grows
California officials must crack down on
illegal water diversions by marijuana
growers to help save the state’s imperiled salmon and other fish that are
already hit hard by ongoing drought,
several speakers told a joint legislative
committee on July 1.
high temperatures. Last year, 95% of
the population of winter-run Chinook
salmon in the Sacramento River died
due to hot temperatures of water flows
from Shasta, several speakers testified.
Illegal diversions by pot growers are
worsening the problem, speakers said.
Members of the Joint Committee on
Fisheries and Aquaculture heard from
several state officials who outlined the
current precarious situation for salmon
— particularly winter-run Chinook —
and talked of steps being taken to stop
illegal water diversions by pot growers.
The hearing was titled “Fish, Flows and
Marijuana Grows: Drought and Illegal
Impacts to Fisheries.”
“The amount of water being diverted
(by pot growers) is staggering,”
added Assembly Member Jim Wood
(D-Healdsburg), vice chair of the
committee.
In his opening remarks, Sen. Mike
Maguire (D-Healdsburg), chair of the
committee, said illegal diversions by pot
growers have been “left unregulated for
20 years” and have hurt fish populations. The problem is particularly acute,
given the ongoing drought, he added.
“There are a minimum number of
growers who disregard the environment
for personal profit,” said Maguire.
Salmon populations are particularly
vulnerable to the lack of water and its
California Natural Resources Secretary
John Laird detailed how the state’s
water system is stressed hugely by the
ongoing drought. Laird suggested to
lawmakers that a “regulatory scheme”
be developed to deal with the illegal
diversion of water by pot growers – a
practice that is stressing an already
over-burdened system.
“We recognize that this is a big issue
that needs to be dealt with,” said Laird.
Charlton Bonham, director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, said commercial fisheries are facing
a potential “disaster” with the threats
from inadequate flows. Some species
of fish — particularly salmon — could
approach the “tipping point” of extinction. Bonham said that DFW received
about 24,000 contacts in the past year
from people reporting potentially illegal diversions from growers.
Tom Howard, executive director of the
State Water Resources Control Board,
said his department is working with
DFW on a program to address illegal
diversions by growers. The program has
four elements: a developing regulatory program, enforcement, education,
and outreach. Howard said officials are
having ongoing discussions with local
county leaders and law enforcement
officials about the problem.
The State Water Board also has developed a draft permit program for the
North Coast region that establishes
regulations for growers and requires
them to pay a fee for the administrative
costs of the program. Other similar permit programs will follow, Howard said.
John McManus, executive director of
the Golden State Salmon Association,
outlined the impacts of the loss of
salmon to fisheries. Later in the hearing, law enforcement officials talked
of their efforts to crack down on the
illegal diversions.
Sept. 1 Deadline Nears for ACWA’s Popular Fall Awards
The deadline for two of ACWA’s prestigious awards — Huell Howser’s Best
In Blue Award and the ACWA Emissary Award — is Tuesday, Sept. 1. Both
awards will be presented at ACWA’s
Fall Conference & Exhibition in Indian
Wells in December.
long-term public outreach, crisis
communications, employee relations,
self-promotion campaigns, customer
education, legislative outreach and
agency anniversary campaigns. School
education programs are not eligible for
this award.
The Huell Howser Best in Blue
Award honors outstanding public water
agency efforts in communicating with
customers, legislators, media, the public and others. The award focuses on innovation and transparency, while taking
agency’s budgets into consideration.
Established in 2006, the Emissary
Award recognizes individual ACWA
member volunteers who have made
remarkable and visible contributions to
the enhancement, protection or development of water resources in California
by participating in, supporting and
advancing ACWA’s goals.
A variety of communications programs
are eligible, including short- and
16 • ACWANEWS
Vol. 43 No. 7
Individuals may have demonstrated
leadership in the course of service
on ACWA committees, conducted
advocacy/outreach at the local, state or
federal levels and committed time and
expertise for the benefit of an ACWA
program or issue.
Guidelines and official entry forms are
available at www.acwa.com.
resource
Best In Blue entry form – www.acwa.
com/sites/default/files/page/2013/06/
best-blue-entry-form.pdf
Emissary entry form – www.acwa.com/
sites/default/files/page/2010/02/
emissaryaward-form.pdf
Impressive Students Awarded 2015-’16 ACWA Scholarships
Each year, ACWA awards several
scholarships to deserving students
pursuing water-related degrees and
careers. This year, an outstanding group
of students has been selected to receive
assistance from ACWA in the 2015-’16
academic term.
All recipients are selected based on
academics, extracurricular activities,
water-related work experience and a
personal essay describing their interest
and aspirations in water.
ACWA Scholarships
ACWA awarded
two $3,500
scholarships to
students in water
resources-related
fields. The 2015’16 recipients are
Holli Tripp and
Gregory Borba.
Tripp, a senior
at California
Polytechnic State
University, San
Luis Obispo, is
majoring in construction management, with a minor
in water policy. She grew up in Auburn
on 20 acres overlooking the American
River and Folsom Lake, and attended
Sierra College before transferring to Cal
Poly in 2014.
“My interest in water stems from the
opportunity I had to intern at Placer
County Water Agency,” said Tripp.
“My supervisors really took the time to
give me a wider view of the agency, the
importance of our watershed and the
diversity of responsibilities it takes to
steward California water rights.”
Borba is majoring in agricultural
systems management at Cal Poly, with
a minor in water science. He grew up
working on his family’s cattle ranch
where he “learned the value of a hard
day’s work,” he said. Borba received
an internship with Oakdale Irrigation
District, while attending Columbia
Junior College.
At Cal Poly, Borba is secretary of the
Agricultural Engineering Society and
is a Certified Agricultural Irrigation
Specialist.
“I plan to receive not only my bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly, but my
master’s in irrigation as well,” said
Borba. “I want to continue my work
with the same passion that propelled
me to where I am today.”
Clair Hill Scholarship
The Clair Hill Scholarship awards
$5,000 to a deserving undergraduate
student. The recipient is chosen by the
water agency that most recently won
the Clair A. Hill Water Agency Award
for Excellence.
Tehama Colusa
Canal Authority,
the 2014 winner
of ACWA’s Clair
Hill agency award,
announced its selected scholarship
recipient — Dylan
Soares — during a luncheon program
at ACWA’s 2015 Spring Conference
& Exhibition in Sacramento. Soares
will be a senior at Cal Poly and studies
bioresource and agricultural engineering. He comes from a family that has
worked in agriculture for more than
30 years, which led him to focus on
taking courses that center on irrigation
system design, canal modernization and
pumps and wells.
“After graduating from Cal Poly, I plan
on continuing my education by attending UC Davis School of Law,” said
Soares. “I would like to work for an
engineering company to continue my
goal of being both a registered engineer
and lawyer.”
Stephen K. Hall Scholarship
The Stephen K. Hall ACWA Water
Law and Policy Scholarship was created
in 2007 to honor former ACWA
Executive Director Steve Hall upon
his retirement. The $7,000 scholarship
is awarded annually to a qualified
graduate student majoring in law,
policy or public administration with
a focus or concentration in California
water resources.
This year’s Hall
scholarship
recipient is Olivia
Filbrandt, who is
pursuing her Juris
Doctorate at UC
Davis School of
Law. Filbrandt was
raised in the Midwest and Northern
California, where her parents instilled
in her a commitment to service and
hands-on environmental restoration.
Filbrandt has held externships with
U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, the
Honorable Edward Davila, and
the California Governor’s Office of
Planning and Research. Her research
has focused on such topics as domestic
and international energy externalities,
alternative energy choices, and
genetically modified organisms. In
law school, she is the senior articles
editor of the Environmental Law
Journal, publications director of the
UC Davis Business Law Journal, as well
as an active member in the Water Law
Society.
“In the future, I hope to use my
background in social and legal research
to pursue work in natural resource
law by focusing on the interplay of
modern demands for natural resources
to social and political frameworks,” said
Filbrandt.
july 24, 2015 • 17
Member News
Foresthill PUD Receives Grant for Environmental Studies
The Foresthill Public Utility District
received a $15,000 grant from the
Placer County Water Agency to
help pay for environmental studies
associated with its application for
extension of water rights permits,
FPUD announced on June 16.
The FPUD is seeking an extension of
its water rights permits from the State
Water Resources Control Board.
“We greatly appreciate the support of
PCWA by assisting us with this grant,”
Neil Cochran, a member of the FPUD
Board of Directors, said in a written statement. “They’ve been willing
partners in sharing both funds and
advice on several projects in the past
few years.”
Two environmental studies are
underway concurrently: a California
Environmental Quality Act
Environmental Impact Report, and
a National Environmental Policy Act
Environmental Impact Statement.
The studies also will examine potential
impacts of two radial gates at Sugar
Pine Dam that would increase local
water storage capacity at Sugar Pine
reservoir.
Dublin San Ramon Opens Second Recycled Water Fill Station
Due to the popularity of its first fill station, the Dublin San Ramon Services
District in late June opened a second
recycled water fill station that allows
people to drive off with up to 300 gallons of free recycled water per visit as
many times per day as they like.
Since the first recycled water fill station
opened last year, DSRSD has served
more than 2,000 registered users and
distributed 73.6 million gallons of
water as of June 29.
The new fill station, located at the City
of Dublin Public Safety Complex, is
open Monday, Wednesday and Fri-
day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Due to the
size of the parking lot at the complex,
the fill station cannot accommodate
vehicles with trailers. Vehicles with
trailers may use the original Pleasanton
fill station instead.
Residents need not be DSRSD customers to take advantage of the fill stations,
but must sign up for the program,
receive training and agree to the terms
of the program.
For more information on using
DSRSD’s recycled water fill stations
please visit: www.dsrsd.com/freerecycled-water.
MWD Launches Summer “Take a Turn” Conservation Campaign
The Metropolitan Water District of
Southern California on July 1 launched
a new $5.5 million multicultural summer water conservation campaign titled
“Take a Turn,” which asks customers
to turn off water and other water-using
appliances as they step up and take
their turn conserving.
The “Take a Turn” campaign features
television, radio, and digital and online
outlets and is available in five languages
– English, Spanish, Mandarin, Korean
and Vietnamese. 18 • ACWANEWS
Vol. 43 No. 7
“‘Turn’ has a powerful double meaning:
Much of water conservation being with
the action of ‘turning’ something off
and now it’s time to take our ‘turn’ –
the word encourages us to take action,”
MWD General Manager Jeffrey Kightlinger said in a statement.
The full campaign will run through
November, while the campaign’s
television ad will run from July to
September.
“This campaign has a simple but
powerful message. Every bit that every
one of us does to
save water will add
up to big savings.
And it is now all
of our turns to
take conservation
to the next level,”
said MWD Board
President Randy Record.
More information on the campaign
is available at www.bewaterwise.com/
campaign-ads.html.
Carlsbad Desalination Project Moves Closer to Completion
The nation’s largest seawater desalination plant took a significant
step toward completion on June 29
when construction crews installed the
final segment of its 10-mile conveyance pipeline. The pipeline links the
Carlsbad Desalination Plant to the
San Diego County Water Authority’s
regional water distribution system.
The lowering of the final piece of pipe
— No. 2177 — into Macario Canyon
in Carlsbad completed a major element
of the $1 billion project that has been
under construction for about two years.
The project, now about 90% complete,
is expected to begin delivering water by
the end of this year.
“This project will provide a core water
supply for our region day-in and dayout for decades, reducing our reliance
on vulnerable imported water supplies,” said Mark Weston, chair of the
SDCWA Board of Directors. “We are
particularly eager to start receiving the
benefits of this project given the severe
drought conditions faced statewide.”
The project is the result of a 30-year
agreement between SDCWA and
Poseidon Water, the private developer of
the project, for the purchase of between
48,000 and 56,000 acre-feet per year
of desalinated seawater. The project includes three main components: the desalination plant, the pipeline, and about
$80 million in upgrades to SDCWA
facilities for distributing the desalinated
water throughout the region.
The reverse-osmosis plant is on schedule to start commercial water production this fall, following approvals from
state regulators. It will produce an
average of 50 million gallons of highquality water per day — enough water
to serve about 112,000 families — and
meet 7% to 10% of the region’s water
demand. The plant’s water will amount
to one-third of all the water generated
in San Diego County.
During its three-year construction
process, the project is estimated to support about 2,500 jobs, infusing $350
million into the local economy.
For more information about the
project, visit the project website at
www.carlsbaddesal.com.
State Water Board Delivers Drinking Water Plan to Legislature
The State Water Resources Control
Board in mid-June delivered to the
Legislature The Safe Drinking Water
Plan for California, which details how
the board plans to supply safe and reliable drinking water to all Californians.
The report focuses on the nearly 8,000
public water systems that are under
the purview of the State Water Board’s
Division of Drinking Water. The report
includes a five-action plan to support
and provide resources to the water
systems that serve the 2% of consumers
who do not receive safe drinking water. The document does not address private
wells and facilities that are not public
water systems. “This plan serves as a roadmap to bring
safe and sustainable water supplies to
all Californians,” Division of Drinking
Water Deputy Director Cindy Forbes
said in a statement announcing delivery
of the plan.
About 98% of California residents
served by public water systems receive
drinking water that meets federal and
state drinking water standards. The
remaining 2% are served by smaller
public systems that struggle to provide
safe and affordable drinking water due
to many obstacles, including lack of
technical, managerial and financial resources. The Safe Drinking Water Plan
identifies the improvements needed to
bring the smaller systems into compliance with a secure and reliable supply.
Some of the key areas addressed in the
report include:
•
accessing water in a drought;
•
providing safe drinking water for
disadvantaged communities;
•
increasing and sustaining capacity
development of systems;
•
identifying shared solutions to supplying safe drinking water, including the consolidation of systems;
•
developing cheaper and effective
treatment and analytical methods;
and
•
building better emergency
preparedness and response
protocols for small systems.
Many of the recommendations within
the report have already been, or are
in the process, of being implemented,
with some recommendations requiring
legislative action.
july 24, 2015 • 19
OCWD Celebrates Expanded Groundwater Replenishment System
Orange County Water District on June
26 formally dedicated the expansion of
it Groundwater Replenishment System,
which now produces 100 million gallons a day. The expansion was celebrated during a ceremony that featured
local and state government officials as
well as representatives from regional
water retail agencies.
The original GWRS was constructed
in partnership with the Orange County
Sanitation District and has been operational since 2008. The system takes
highly treated wastewater and purifies
it using a three-step advanced treatment process consisting of microfiltration, reverse osmosis and ultraviolet
light with hydrogen peroxide, resulting
in high-quality water
used to replenish regional
groundwater basins.
According to OCWD,
the June GWRS expansion boosts the facility’s
purified water production from 70 MGD to
100 MGD, or enough to
supply water for 850,000
people. Further expansion of the facility also is
being explored.
For more information on
the GWRS, visit www.
gwrsystem.com.
Officials toast the initial expansion of Orange County
Water District’s Groundwater Replenishment System.
They are: (left to right) Philip Anthony, OCWD board
member; Tom Beamish, chair, Orange County Sanitation
District; Assembly Member Travis Allen (R-Huntington
Beach); Denis Bilodeau, OCWD board member; Cathy
Green, OCWD president; Sen. John Moorlach (R-Costa
Mesa); and Assembly Member Matthew Harper
(R-Huntington Beach).
Photo courtesy of Black & Veatch Corporation
Eastern MWD Displays Signs Highlighting Recycled Water
New signs indicating that recycled
water is irrigating parks, agricultural
fields, school grounds and other
community landscaping in Eastern
Municipal Water District’s service area
began popping up in mid-June as the
district launched a new campaign to
highlight its customers’ responsible use
of recycled water.
EMWD placed the large banners and
real estate-style signs at recycled water
sites to show that many customers
have proactively chosen to invest in
this drought-proof water supply and
therefore will be exempted from the
same state-mandated restrictions as
potable water users.
water supply. It currently meets nearly
30% of its demand through recycled
water efforts.
“Many of our recycled water customers
have come under increased scrutiny
because casual observers may not know
they are using recycled water. This is to
help alleviate those concerns,” EMWD
President Randy Record said in a
statement.
EMWD provides recycled water to
more than 300 accounts, including
nearly 11,000 acres of agriculture. The
district has received several awards for
its recycled water program, including
California Agency of the Year (2010),
California Customer of the Year (2011,
2012), National Project of the Year
(2012) and President’s Award (2013).
EMWD is a national leader in recycled
water. In 2014, the district reached
100% beneficial reuse of its recycled
Got an outreach program worth
talking about?
Calling for Entries
Enter your agency’s outstanding public relations efforts in
ACWA’s Huell Howser Best in Blue Award!
The award recognizes outstanding achievements by public
water agencies in communicating with customers, legislators,
media and the public.
The award will be presented at ACWA’s 2015 Fall Conference
& Exhibition. Entries must be submitted by Sept. 1.
Details and entry forms are at www.acwa.com.
20 • ACWANEWS
Vol. 43 No. 7
People News
Castaic Lake Water Agency General
Manager Masnada to Retire in 2016
After serving as Castaic Lake Water Agency’s
general manager for more than 12 years, Dan
Masnada in June announced plans to step
down from his role at the end of the year to
work on special projects before completely
retiring from the agency in September 2016.
Calling his leadership “extraordinary,” CLWA
Board President Tom Campbell commended
Masnada for his service and praised his accomplishments at the district. In a written
statement, Campbell added that Masnada’s
“vision of developing a diverse array of water
management programs and supply sources
has positioned our community to withstand
water supply fluctuations.’
Masnada’s career in the water industry spans
three decades and includes accomplishments
such as the construction of CLWA’s Sand
Canyon pipeline, pump station, and reservoir,
two solar power projects, and the development of the SCV Urban Water Management
Plan. Prior to serving CLWA, Masnada was
the executive director of the Central Coast
Water Authority.
The district will begin recruiting for Masnada’s successor this summer and make its
decision by the end of the year.
Peltier to Lead San Luis & Delta
Mendota Water Authority in 2016
The San Luis & Delta Mendota Water
Authority announced on July 9 that Jason
Peltier has been selected to succeed Dan
Nelson as the authority’s next executive
director, following Nelson’s year-end
retirement. As part of the authority’s succession
plan, Peltier will begin his employment in midAugust working as a deputy executive director
before taking over officially on Jan. 1, 2016.
Nelson, who has served as the authority’s executive director since its formation, will retire
after 24 years of service, making Peltier the
second executive director to serve the agency.
KRCD General Manager David Orth
Resigns
The Kings River Conservation District Board
of Directors announced July 22 that it
received the resignation of General Manager
Dave Orth at its July 14 meeting.
Orth co-chaired the Governor’s Drinking
Water Stakeholder Group. He also serves on
the California Water Commission.
“My time at KRCD has been a remarkable experience,” Orth said in brief farewell remarks
at the meeting. “It’s been a pleasure serving
under the direction of KRCD’s Board and
working with KRCD’s excellent staff.”
Orth’s resignation takes effect Aug. 15.
Orth became general manager of KRCD in
February 2002. Prior to KRCD, Orth was
the director of finance and general manager for Westlands Water District. Orth has
been deeply involved in the development of
sustainable policies for local groundwater
management and water quality protection.
Peltier currently serves as Westlands Water
District chief deputy general manager. He
has previously served as U.S. Department of
Interior deputy assistant secretary for water
and science and Central Valley Project Water
Association manager.
“Under his direction, KRCD has positioned
itself as a regional leader in the areas of water,
power, and environmental resources,” David
Cehrs, chair of the KRCD board, said in a
written statement.
Highlights of Orth’s tenure at KRCD include
the construction of the Malaga Peaking Plant,
greater regional water management collaboration through the Kings Basin Water Authority, and the continuation and support of the
Kings River Fisheries Management Program.
Randy Shilling, deputy general manager
of business operations, will serve as
interim general manager of KRCD as the
board initiates an executive search for the
recruitment of a new general manager.
july 24, 2015 • 21
What kinds of products and services do
you need to meet the new state mandatory
water conservation regulations?
June
Feedback
Here are excerpts from replies sent to
[email protected].
Reclamation District No. 2068 – The agricultural sector could use funding,
such as:
• Funding for mechanisms to communicate crop specific water demand in real
time formats, tailored to an ag user;
• Funding for regional water balance data collection to help local agencies
maximize water reuse;
• Funding for additional metering and measurement within local districts;
• Infrastructure funding to facilitate recapture and reuse; and
• Infrastructure funding to reduce transmission losses and distribution system
inefficiencies.
Indian Wells Valley Water District – We no longer have a functioning AMR
system so we are unable to monitor our customers’ usage on an hourly
basis. We have gone back to manual meter reading until such time as we can
implement a pilot program involving installation of an AMI system on 468 of
our services (we have about 12,000 total). We have a significant opportunity to conserve water used in evaporative
coolers… Converting to HVAC would result in significant savings, however
the electrical costs are much higher to operate air conditioning compared to
evaporative cooling. Perhaps some incentive to replace coolers with HVAC
would be successful.
Carpinteria Valley Water District – Products/services that will help CVWD with
the conservation regulations.
• Translation for multi-cultural messaging – primarily Spanish
• More public outreach to CII customers
• Plumbing Repair Programs for customers facing financial hardship
• Funding for customer engagement software programs such as WaterSmart,
Aquahawk, or Smart Utility Systems
• Funding for conversion to AMI
Send us your feedback!
Now that mandatory water use
reductions have been in place for
a few months, what is your agency
doing to sustain the momentum with
your customers to conserve?
Email your answer to [email protected]
by August 11, 2015. Please put in subject line
“Feedback July 2015.”
West Basin Votes to
Study Ocean-Water
Desalination Facility
In an effort to increase its local
water supply, the West Basin
Municipal Water District Board
of Directors voted this spring to
launch the formal environmental
studies necessary to build a fullscale ocean-water desalination
facility in its south bay.
By initiating a formal
environmental impact report,
West Basin will evaluate possible
environmental effects associated
with building and operating a 20
million gallon-per-day ocean-water
desalination facility as well as a 60
million gallon-per-day facility. The EIR will quantify potential
impacts attributed to the facility’s
intake, discharge, air quality,
greenhouse gas emissions and more.
This document also will determine
how much mitigation would be
required for the facility to have a
net zero environmental impact.
“As a coastal water agency, it is
important that West Basin evaluate
a responsible ocean-water desalination program, should it be needed
in the future,” said West Basin
Board President Gloria D. Gray.
“As the drought worsens, and with
the uncertainty of climate change,
it is prudent to explore ocean-water
desalination.’
In addition to increasing water recycling, groundwater desalting and
water conservation, investigating
ocean-water desalination to diversify local water supplies is a key
part of West Basin’s water reliability
program.
For more information about West
Basin’s ocean-water desalination
studies and water reliability
program, please visit www.
westbasin.org.
22 • ACWANEWS
Vol. 43 No. 7
Employment
Senior Water Resources
Specialist
Santa Clara Valley Water District
$9,756.93 – $12,486.93 monthly-based on
a seven-step salary plan
$117,083.20 – $149,843.20 annually-based
on a seven-step salary plan
Duties: The Senior Water Resources
Specialist position in the Imported Water
Unit provides a leadership role in: (1)
protecting and promoting the District’s
interests in its imported water contracts;
(2) developing imported water supplies
consistent with the District’s water supply
planning efforts; (3) engaging in Statewide
evaluation of water supply planning
efforts, including evaluating operational
components of Delta conveyance facilities
and new reservoirs; (4) improving the
efficient integration of imported water
supplies with District Operations; and (5)
minimizing imported water costs. Key job
functions and responsibilities include:
A. Represent the District in meetings
and committees; participate in technical
development work conducted by
coalitions of agencies; provide a
leadership role for the District in technical
negotiations.
B. Perform analyses of complex
technical, operational, economic and
other information as needed to support
Imported Water projects and provide
recommendations to management.
C. Organize and manage and lead technical
work to support the development,
negotiation and administration of
water supply contracts and cooperative
agreements with other agencies, semitropic groundwater bank operations, and
other imported water projects.
An important part of this job is
maintaining working relationships with
other water districts, as well as local, State
and federal agencies. This will require
extensive travel and may require overnight
stays 3 days a month and may include
4-5 hours of freeway driving in a single
day several times a month to and from
external meetings. Last minute travel may
also be required.
This position may require supervision of
lower level staff.
Experience: One year of professional
water resources management experience
at a level equivalent to the District’s
Associate Water Resources Specialist,
Associate Geologist or Associate Engineer
(Civil) classifications (total of five years).
Training: Equivalent to a Bachelor’s
degree from an accredited college
or university with major course work
in physical science, engineering or
other directly related field (such as
environmental science, geology, biology,
hydrology, or ecology).
A Master’s or other higher degree is
preferred.
Closing Date for Applications: 7-28-15 by
5:00 pm.
For detailed information regarding
requirements and qualifications for
this opening and to apply online,
please see the job posting by clicking
on the following link: http://agency.
governmentjobs.com/scvwd
Calling All Nominations
Objective
ACWA
Emissary
Award
2015
Recognizing
Remarkable
Contributions
The award recognizes individual ACWA member volunteers who have advanced
ACWA’s mission and goals through their direct involvement.
Individuals demonstrate:
• Leadership in the course of service on ACWA committees
• Advocacy / outreach at local, state and / or federal levels
• Commitment of time and expertise for the benefit of an ACWA program or issue
Who Is Eligible?
Any ACWA committee member, ACWA region board member or ACWA Board
member who is employed by an ACWA public agency member is eligible to
nominate any staff, consultant or board member of an ACWA public agency
member.
When Are Nominations Due?
Nominations must be received at the ACWA offices by September 1, 2015. An
official nomination form and further details about the award, eligibility and selection process are available at www.acwa.com.
july 24, 2015 • 23
Most Clicked
Here are some of July’s most-clicked
stories on ACWA’s website,
www.acwa.com. Be sure to subscribe
to ACWA’s eNews to get the latest
news in your email box each week.
See www.acwa.com/newsletters/
ACWA-eNews for more.
Periodicals Postage
Paid
Sacramento, CA
Association of California Water Agencies
Sacramento, CA 95814-3577
Time Valued Material
Draft Regulations Released to
Guide Groundwater Basin Boundary
Revisions — 07/20/2015
New Landscapes to Use a Third Less
Water Under Newly Adopted Model
Ordinance — 07/15/2015
Upcoming Events
Water Summit Focuses on
Technology, Policy for Efficient
Water Use — 07/10/2015
Visit acwa.com for complete listing
31
Water Conservation Pricing
Explored in Workshop —
07/08/2015
August 2015
Twitter Chatter
Capital Press @capitalpress • June 26
| Strong El Nino likely this winter, but
no end of drought seen
KQEDscience @KQEDscience • July
13 | ‘No Water Here’: Drought Drives
California Ranchers to Thin Herds
NBC Bay Area @nbcbayarea • July
15 | DROUGHT: California is shutting
down “rinse-off” showers at state
beaches to conserve water.
Deb Dutta @DuttaDeb • July 15 | To
save water, new California homes will
have less lawn
California WaterFix @CAWaterFix
• J uly 9 | Public comment period for
#BDCP/ #CAWaterFix recirculated
docs officially begins July 10.
California WaterFix @CAWaterFix •
July 10 | #BDCP/ #CAWaterFix FAQ
tackles tough questions.
17 – 19
Smart H2O Summit will be held at the San Francisco Marriott. More
information available at www.smarth2osummit.com/attend.html.
28 – 29
DesalTech2015, the International Conference on emerging water
desalination technologies in municipal and industrial applications, will
take place in San Diego. For event details, visit www.desaltech2015.com.
September 2015
1 – 2
A two-day drought tour sponsored by the Water Education
Foundation explores the impacts of California’s four-year drought.
For more information, visit www.watereducation.org/tour/droughttour-2015.
10 – 11
ACWA’s 2015 Continuing Legal Education will be held at the
Waterfront Hotel in Oakland, CA. You can earn up to 12.25 hours of
general credit by attending these workshops. Online registration is
available at www.acwa.com.
24 – 25
A groundwater tour sponsored by the Water Education Foundation
will travel through the Sacramento region to view sites that explore
groundwater issues. For more information, visit www.watereducation.
org/tour/groundwater-tour-2015.
30
A financing sustainable water workshop hosted by Regional
Water Authority at the Sierra 2 Center, Sacramento CA. Learn about
the newest resources and strategies that can help you navigate the
challenge of developing rate structures. For more information, visit
www.acwa.com — go to the events calendar.
October 2015
14
ACWA’s 2015 Regulatory Summit will be held at DoubleTree Hotel,
Ontario. Online registration available at www.acwa.com/events/acwa2015-regulatory-summit.
25 – 26
ACWA’s Region 5 is hosting a program, The Lake Cachuma Project,
in Buellton, CA. The program will begin with a visit to Lake Cachuma
and reconvene at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott for a program featuring
Santa Barbara County water management.
SOLUTIONS
FOR A
CHANGING
OCTOBER 26-29, 2015
TROPICANA RESORT, LAS VEGAS, NV
WORLD
OCCUPATION CODES (please check one): ___WTR Water Utility ___CTR Contractor ___CNS Consultant ___MFG Manufacturer ___REF Manufacturer’s Representative
___DIS Distributor ___EDU Educator ___RES Research Laboratory ___FED Federal Government ___STA State Government ___STU Student___OPR Water Operator
___I am a speaker at this conference. Date __________________________________ Time _______________________________________
Attendee Name___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Title ___________________________________________ Company _________________________________________________________________________________________
Address _________________________________________________________________ City _____________________________________ State__________ Zip_____________
Phone _________________________________________ Cell _____________________________________________ Fax ___________________________________________
Attendee Email________________________________________________________________________ AWWA Member #________________________________________
Type of Membership (check one) ___Individual ___Organization ___Operator/Admin. ___Utility ___I am a CWEA Member (same rate as CA-NV AWWA Member)
Complimentary Spouse/Guest (If attending) *Household members only. Does not include Water Industry Personnel._____________________________________________
Early
On or Before
8/ 21/ 15
PRE
On or Before
10/ 11/ 15
FULL REGISTRATION: Includes Keynote Lunch & Exhibitor
Hosted Lunch & Exhibitor Reception
$445
$495
$545
$ ____________
Tuesday One-Day : Includes Keynote Lunch & Exhibitor
Reception
$225
$275
$315
$ ____________
Wednesday One-Day: Includes Exhibitor Hosted
Lunch & Exhibit Hall Entrance
$225
$275
$315
Member Registration
EDUCATION PACKAGE Wednesday/Thursday
Includes Technical Sessions & Exhibit Hall Entrance
$275
$275
Onsite
From
10/ 12/ 15
$315
NO MEALS
Thursday One-Day Includes Technical Sessions
$149
NO MEALS
STUDENT - Must be full time Student/AWWA Student
RETIREE REGISTRATION - Must be: 1) Retired from all
gainful employment. 2) A member of AWWA for at least
15 years. 3) At least 60 years of age.
FREE
FREE
FREE
NO MEALS
NO MEALS
NO MEALS
Non Member Registration
$149
Early
On or Before
8/ 21/ 15
PRE
On or Before
10/ 11/ 15
$ ____________
$ ____________
$ ____________
$545
$595
Tuesday One-Day : Includes Keynote Lunch & Exhibitor
Reception
$275
$325
$375
Wednesday One-Day: Includes Exhibitor Hosted
Lunch & Exhibit Hall Entrance
$275
$325
$375
$325
$375
$325
$ ____________
$ ____________
$ ____________
NO MEALS
NO MEALS
NO MEALS
$ ____________
$149
$149
$149
$ ____________
Thursday One-Day Includes Technical Sessions
Subtotal $___________
SPECIAL EVENTS
Tues. Technical Tour
Wed. Technical Tour
$40
$40
CONTACT HOURS
FREE
(I am an individual, operator or
administrative AWWA member)
$20.00
(My utility/organization is an
AWWA member or I am not an
AWWA member)
PAYMENT INFORMATION
PAYMENT METHOD
Check #______________________________________________________________________________________________
Registration Total: __________________
Payable to CA-NV AWWA (U.S. funds)
PO#__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Must be accompanied by a physical copy of the PO
Visa
Exhibitor Hosted Lunch $50
Subtotal $___________
Onsite
From
10/ 12/ 15
$495
Credit Card:
$50
Water for People Event $45
FULL REGISTRATION: Includes Keynote Lunch & Exhibitor
Hosted Lunch & Exhibitor Reception
EDUCATION PACKAGE Wednesday/Thursday
Includes Technical Sessions & Exhibit Hall Entrance
Keynote Lunch
$ ____________
NO MEALS
$149
LUNCHES
MC
AMEX
Card No.:_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Exp. Date:____________________________________________________________________________________________
Name on Card:_______________________________________________________________________________________
Authorized Signature:________________________________________________________________________________
Billing Zip Code:______________________________________________________________________________________
Must be Zip Code in which your credit card statement is mailed
For copy of receipt, please write email address:
Meal Total: _______________
Special Events Total: ___________________
Contact Hours: ___________________
Total Amount Due: ___________________
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September 1, 2015. A $50 administrative fee will be deducted from all
refunds. No Refunds Granted after October 1, 2015. By submitting this
form, you are consenting to having your photo taken at the event which
may be used for future Section promotions.
CA-NV AWWA: 10435 Ashford Street, 2nd Floor
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730,
Phone: (909) 481-7200
Fax: (909) 291-2107
www.ca-nv-awwa.org
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SEPTEMBER 21-24
Monterey, CA
California Special
Districts Association
Districts Stronger Together
Ingredients: 100% California Special Districts Association
Annual Conference, keynote speakers, breakout sessions,
networking, large exhibit hall, receptions, beautiful
location, many learning opportunities, no preservatives
ATTENDEE REGISTRATION
The Leadership Conference for Special Districts
The CSDA Annual Conference &
Exhibitor Showcase is the one
conference special district
leaders can’t afford to miss!
Join 600-plus special district professionals and industry
experts for a three-day, must-attend education and
networking extravaganza.
Participate in inspiring and motivating keynote sessions. Walk away with strategies,
new connections and innovative ideas to move your district forward.
who
SHOULD
ATTEND?
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Board Members/Trustees
General Managers
Fire Chiefs
Police Chiefs
Department Managers
Supervisors
Administrative Staff
Finance Managers
HR Managers
Board Secretaries
Legal Counsel
Consultants
Suppliers
Support Staff
why
SHOULD I
ATTEND?
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Interact with industry experts
Hear success stories from colleagues
Learn about challenges and solutions from special district case studies
Be the first to hear about special district trends
Gain knowledge and inspiration from nationally recognized speakers
Specialized workshops and sessions designed to address your needs
Meet one-on-one with industry suppliers who understand your needs
Attend numerous networking opportunities
Make new contacts and maintain key relationships
Earn SDRMA Credit Incentive Points
where
IS IT
HELD?
Monterey, California
Monterey Marriott Hotel
350 Calle Principal
Monterey,CA 93940
877.901.6632
Monterey Conference
Center
One Portola Plaza
Monterey, CA 93940
September 21 – 24, 2015
wow
GROWTH
OVER THE
YEARS
MORE
EXHIBITORS
MORE
ATTENDEES
MORE
PRE-CON
EVENTS
The CSDA Annual Conference
& Exhibitor Showcase has
seen significant growth in each
aspect of the conference for
over a decade!
MORE
BREAKOUT
SESSIONS
conference.csda.net
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#csdaconf2015
SEPTEMBER 21-24
Monterey, CA
hotel
BOOK
TODAY
Hotel & Location
Monterey Marriott Hotel
350 Calle Principal
Monterey, CA 93940
877.901.6632
Room reservations are available
at the Marriott Monterey at the
CSDA rate of $169 plus tax single
or double occupancy, which includes
complimentary wireless guestroom
internet access. Call 877-901-6632
and ask for the California Special
Districts Association rate. The first
night room and tax becomes
non-refundable if a reservation
is cancelled after the cut-off
date of September 4, 2015.
what
TO DO?
Just 100 miles south of San Francisco, Monterey’s breathtaking
scenery, rich history, world-renowned attractions and outdoor
adventures invite one to grab life by the moments! Monterey is a
dramatic setting for endless choices of activities all within minutes
of convenient, charming overnight accommodations. Monterey
is named a Top North American Golf Destination and the 2013
Top Ten Wine Travel Destination in the World. The Monterey
Bay National Marine Sanctuary is home to favorite marine
life that can be observed in one of the most amazing natural
environments found anywhere in the United States.
www.seemonterey.com
2015 CSDA Annual Conference & Exhibitor Showcase
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Pre-Conference
WORKSHOPS, EVENTS & TOURS - Sept. 21
pre-registration/payment required for these events
8:00 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
So You Want to Be A General Manager?
$100 includes continental breakfast and lunch.
A practical career development workshop for senior executives and
emerging leaders in special districts. This action-oriented workshop
includes group and panel discussions on: the journey, roles and skill
sets of a general manager; identifying general manager opportunities,
including positioning yourself for executive recruitment; developing
positive relations with the board, staff and peer agency executives; and
leadership practices. Limited class size, register early!
Sponsored by CSDA and the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF)
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Building Confidence in Public Speaking
CPS HR CONSULTING
$225 Member • $375 Non-member
This workshop is designed to help employees improve their public
speaking skills in a supportive and non-threatening environment.
As a result of this workshop, students will learn how to: deal with
nervousness about speaking in public; improve their presentation
skills; prepare the best introduction for their audiences; fine tune their
messages; deal with difficult questions; and develop a positive outlook for
their next public speaking opportunities.
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Special District Leadership Academy Module 1:
Governance Foundations - Earn SDRMA CIPs
As the core curriculum of CSDA’s Special District Leadership Academy,
this workshop serves as the “foundation” for the series on effective
governance of special districts. It is specifically designed for special district
board members and meets the requirement for six hours of governance
training for Special District Leadership Foundation programs.
12:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Communication Strategies for Board Members & General Managers
BHI MANAGEMENT CONSULTING
Communication is the fluid of any organization. Poor communications
can grind the “heels” of an agency to a halt and are cause for most of
the greatest challenges in the work of public agencies. This is why this
particular pre-conference workshop is critical for both districts that
know they have organizational challenges and those who know enough
to believe that good communications are an absolute best practice. The
class will deal with the most commonly overlooked and complicated
areas of public agency communications. This class is a must for both
board members and GMs/administrators who want to drive their
agency to the top and avoid unnecessary trouble.
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Special District
Administrator (SDA) Exam
9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Special District Leadership Foundation
(optional – must be scheduled prior to conference)
Credit Incentive Points
What are SDRMA
Credit Incentive Points?
Special District Risk Management Authority
(SDRMA) is committed to establishing a
strategic partnership with our members to
provide maximum protection, help control
losses and positively impact the overall cost of
property/liability and workers’ compensation
coverage through the Credit Incentive Program.
Credit incentive points can be earned based
on an agency’s attendance at the CSDA Annual
Conference & Exhibitor Showcase reducing
SDRMA member’s annual contribution amount.
“The CSDA Conference is the most
valuable annual conference of all the
ones we attend. If you are a special
district, this is the only place to learn
everything you need to know that
relates to special district governance,
trends, issues and legislation.
Kudos to CSDA for a job well done.”
Kimberly Thorner, SDA
Olivenhain Municipal Water District
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10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Elk Horn Slough Safari ™ and
Moss Landing Harbor District Tour
$48 per person includes transportation to/from the hotel.
Ekhorn Slough Safari ™ is an exciting way to visit Elkhorn
Slough, where you will see a fantastic variety of wildlife
such as playful sea otters, curious harbor seals, sea lions,
and hundreds of species of birds. The tour will provide
excellent opportunities to view and photograph wildlife
close at hand. These two-hour boat cruises include an indepth look at various aspects of slough ecology, fascinating
history, and birding in the company of a naturalist guide.
12:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Pure Water Monterey
MONTEREY PENINSULA WATER MANAGEMENT
DISTRICT AND MONTEREY REGIONAL WATER
POLLUTION CONTROL AGENCY
$45 includes transportation and lunch.
Pure Water Monterey is a multi-benefit, integrated, regional
solution that will provide a water recycling model for other
regions in California. Using proven, advanced, multi-stage
treatment to provide a safe, reliable and sustainable drinking
water supply that will comply with or exceed strict state
and federal drinking water standards, the project will reduce
water taken from the Carmel River and the Seaside Basin.
In doing so, it will help meet regulatory orders and enhance
water supply reliability by diversifying local water sources.
Visit www.purewatermonterey.org for more information.
4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
District NetWorks Meetings
Designed by local special district leaders to connect and interact with other
leaders from throughout the state, come take part in one of our six District
NetWorks meetings. No matter where you are in the state, you belong to
a district network. Share challenges, solutions and opportunities with your
neighboring districts. Learn how you can take part in CSDA’s Grassroots
Advocacy efforts, meet your new public affairs field coordinator, connect
with special district leaders and grow your network!
Visit www.csda.net/about-csda/district-networks/ for more information.
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10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
CSDA Annual Golf Tournament
PACIFIC GROVE GOLF LINKS
$95 includes golf with cart, lunch, and prizes!
Transportation to/from on your own
Join special district elected officials, staff and business
affiliates at this optional fun event.
Great golf skills are not necessary!
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CONFERENCE BEGINS
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
President’s Reception with the Exhibitors
(all registered attendees welcome)
Join us as we network with business
professionals who provide all types of
goods and services to special districts. Enjoy
appetizers and refreshments as you meet with
CSDA’s current Board President Steve Perez
and board members from around the state.
Entertainment will
feature a CSDA
Annual Conference
& Exhibitor
Showcase favorite guitarist John Sherry.
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Conference Keynote Presenters
PETER SHEAHAN & MICHAEL BAZZELL
Opening Keynote Presentation
Peter Sheahan, Founder and CEO of
ChangeLabs™ and author of six books,
including the international bestsellers FL!P
and Generation Y.
FLIP! Creative Strategies for Turning
Challenges into Opportunity and
Change into Advantage
The fact that special districts face major
change is not new to anyone. The more
important question is what do we need to
do in the face of this change? Whether you
are dealing with legislation, new technology
related to service delivery, or changing constituent expectations - it is crucial
that as a leader you take the time to understand the changes and have an
approach designed to generate a constructive outcome.
In Peter Sheahan’s case-study rich session, he will explore best practices from
multiple industries that have experienced similar transformative change, and unpack
the key insights from those who benefited from the change compared to those
that became victims to it. Specifically, he will discuss:
• The role our assumptions, biases, and beliefs play in
blinding us to new opportunities.
• The need to take manageable, intelligent risks to
enable new approaches.
• The importance of building a narrative to shape
stakeholder perception and drive influence.
• Embracing collaboration to drive transformation through
partnerships and community engagement.
Peter Sheahan will be presenting
Tuesday, September 22
9:00 – 10:45 a.m.
FLIP! Creative Strategies for Turning Challenges into Opportunity,
and Change into Advantage
Due to Michael’s full time job with
the FBI, he is not allowed to have
any photos published.
SDRMA General
Session, Safety Awards,
Keynote Presentation
Michael Bazzell
Computer Security
Specialist & Privacy
Consultant, author of
Hiding from the Internet:
Eliminating Personal Online
Information and Personal
Digital Security: Protecting
Yourself from Online Crime
Hiding from the Internet
This presentation will demonstrate the need to protect
yourself from the numerous data brokers who make millions
of dollars from your private life. Among other techniques, you
will learn to: remove your personal information from public
databases and people search websites; create free anonymous
mail addresses, email addresses, and telephone numbers;
control your privacy settings on social networks and remove
sensitive data, use a credit freeze to eliminate the worry
of financial identity theft and fraud; and change your future
habits to promote complete privacy and anonymity.
Sponsored by
Special District Risk Management Authority (SDRMA)
Michael Bazzell will be presenting
Wednesday, September 23
9:00 – 10:45 a.m.
SDRMA General Session, Safety Awards and
Keynote Presentation
“I had a great experience. The education and information
gathered will help me make better and more informed
decisions for the citizens in my special district.”
Henry Miller, Trustee
Temecula Public Cemetery District
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conference.csda.net
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Recognitions and Scholarships
TWO GREAT EVENTS AT CONFERENCE
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Submit for Awards!
RECOGNIZE YOUR PEERS
Do you have a board member, staff member, local
chapter or program you feel deserves recognition?
Each year, CSDA presents various awards during the CSDA Annual Conference and Exhibitor Showcase.
Please consider outstanding individuals within your districts for individual awards. Chapter awards and district
awards are also open for nominations. Visit conference.csda.net for more information. If you have any questions
regarding the awards or process, please contact Charlotte Lowe, executive assistant, toll-free at 877.924.2732
or by email at [email protected]. Additional information and forms can be found at www.conference.csda.net.
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“My overall
impression was
that the event was
very well organized.
Probably the best I
have ever attended.”
Deadline for submissions is Friday, August 7, 2015. All applicants will be notified prior to the Annual
Conference as to the winner. Winners will be awarded at the CSDA Annual Conference & Exhibitor
Showcase during the Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, September 23.
CSDA Annual Awards Luncheon will be held
12:30 – 2:00 p.m.
Awards include: Board President, General Manager and Chapter of the Year, the prestigious
William Hollingsworth Award of Excellence, Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF) awards and more!
George Emerson, Director
Goleta Sanitary District
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“As a new member,
we couldn’t be
more pleased with
the CSDA Annual
Conference &
Exhibitor Showcase.”
Fundraising for Scholarships
SDLF is an independent, non-profit organization formed
to promote good governance and best practices among
California’s special districts through certification,
accreditation and other recognition programs.
SDLF and its activities are supported through the California Special Districts Association and Special District
Risk Management Authority. SDLF offers a number of scholarships for districts., designed to help special
district elected/appointed officials and staff participate in the Foundation’s programs and other educational
offerings. These scholarships include: Dr. James Kohnen Scholarship, John Yeakley Special District Administrator
Scholarship and the Education Allowance Fund. More information can be found at www.sdlf.org
Taste of the City
BBQ, Blues & Brews will be held
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Felix Hernandez III, General Manager
Bodega Bay Public Utility District
7
Program
TUESDAY - Sept. 22
all registered attendees & exhibitors welcome to events unless otherwise stated
9:00 – 10:45 a.m.
Peter Sheahan, Founder and CEO of
ChangeLabs™ and author of six books, including
the international bestsellers FL!P and Generation Y.
FLIP! Creative Strategies for Turning
Challenges into Opportunity and Change
into Advantage
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (BREAKOUT SESSIONS)
Required Ethics AB 1234 Compliance Training (part 1)
MEYERS NAVE
This two-part training covers general ethics principles and state laws
related to: personal financial gain by public servants; conflict of interest,
bribery and nepotism; gift, travel and mass-mailing restrictions; honoraria;
financial interest disclosure and competitive bidding; prohibitions on the
use of public resources for personal or political purposes; the Political
Reform Act; the Brown Act open meeting law and the California Public
Records Act. Must attend both sessions in order to receive your certificate.
The 3 Cs: Using Communications, Consistency
and Cooperation to Benefit Your District
DAVID ARANDA
Districts of all shapes and sizes face the difficult task of being efficient,
effective leaders for the community. Gain an understanding of how
three simple words carry a powerful punch in allowing your district and
the board, management and staff to service excellence.
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New Developments in the Brown Act:
What Special Districts Need to Know
LIEBERT CASSIDY WHITMORE
Agencies must know how to comply with the complex set of laws found
in the Brown Act, which governs how boards must meet in public. In this
session, we will go over common mistakes districts make with the Brown
Act, including the intricacies involved with closed sessions, administrative
decisions, litigation and settlements. This workshop will also explain the
new amendments to the Brown Act addressing transparency, which can
pose a challenge for districts.
Design-Build Delivery and Beyond–Alternate Delivery or Alternate
Reality in CA Public Works Construction
ATKINSON, ANDELSON, LOYA, RUUD & ROMO
Law has been revised in the past several months to allow, under certain
conditions, local agencies and public entities to contract using the design-build
method.The goal of this workshop is to educate about the design-build delivery
method and the qualifications and legal requirements to implementing such a
project in the state of California. Design-build is recognized as an alternative to
traditional design-bid-build and this workshop will educate the audience as to
the pros and cons of choosing design-build over other delivery methods.
•
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Lunch with the
EXHIBITORS
12:00 – 1:45 p.m.
Lunch with the Exhibitors
Attend lunch in the exhibit hall where
a deli buffet will be served along
with the chef ’s award winning clam
chowder.
conference.csda.net
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Ongoing Drought and California’s New Sustainable
Groundwater Management Act Creates New Challenges
for Local Agencies
KRONICK, MOSKOVITZ, TIEDEMAN & GIRARD
With ongoing drought and last year’s passage of the Sustainable
Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), California special districts
are being forced to navigate uncharted legal and technical territory.
This session will provide the latest updates on drought management
and provide a comprehensive review of the SGMA, which sets an
aggressive multi-year timeline for local agencies in groundwater
basins throughout the State to coordinate and develop groundwater
management plans to achieve sustainability.
Smooth Sailing: Navigating an Audit by the
State or Federal Government
ALESHIRE & WYNDER LLP
Following an audit from the State Controller on two special districts, the
Controller has called for more oversight of California special districts. The
controller cited serious failures of the audited districts with respect to
financial internal control procedures, comparing such failures to the serious
failures in Bell. Learn what they are looking for and how best to navigate
through an audit successfully.
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Continental Breakfast with the Exhibitors (RAFFLE)
(BREAKOUT SESSIONS CONTINUED)
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7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Exhibitor Showcase Open
#csdaconf2015
2:00 – 3:15 p.m. (BREAKOUT SESSIONS)
Required Ethics AB1234 Compliance Training (part 2)
MEYERS NAVE
Description can be found on Tuesday, Sept. 22 in the 11:00 am time slot.
Must attend both sessions in order to receive your certificate.
Water and Sewer Rates: From Defensibility to Tailor-Made Rate Design
NBS
Setting fair and defensible water and sewer rates requires utility managers
to carefully balance a number of competing requirements and objectives.
This session will cover how to go through the rate-setting process and
develop a defensible rate structure.
Public Records Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Come away with an understanding of the basic requirements of the California
Public Records Act.The discussion will focus on practical approaches to
difficult situations public officials and employees may face in responding to
requests for information and records from the public, particularly when
controversial or potentially damaging information is requested.
CEQA: What Special Districts Need to Know in 2015 and Beyond
BEST BEST & KRIEGER LLP AND DUDEK AND ASSOCIATES
Most actions taken by special districts need to comply with CEQA. But in
the fast-changing world of CEQA litigation, it is difficult to keep up. This
panel will address recent changes to CEQA from legislation and 2015 cases.
CalPERS: Strategic Issues Update
CalPERS
Deputy Executive Officer of External Affairs Robert Glazier will share an
update on key pension, health, and investment issues that will help guide
the way special districts plan for retirement and health care. This session will
include a description of CalPERS business functions, customer service and
opportunities to engage at all levels before, during and after a policy is set.
Peak GM Performance: Three Perspectives
This seminar presents the results of a broad survey that asks just that
question, “What Makes a Great General Manager?” The survey, sent to over
2,000 special district individuals throughout the country, will be presented by
Brent Ives and David Aranda of BHI Management Consulting.They will relate
their findings to their organizational consultancy with districts in California.
Advanced Media Relationships: When the Going
Gets Tough, Step it Up!
COMMUNICATION ADVANTAGE
This session will help special districts elevate their public outreach and
media relations skills beyond merely answering questions and stating
the facts. We will explore strategically planning messaging for longerterm issues, projects and crises, and proven techniques to handle
controversial issues.
Furious 7 (Hundred). A Fast Class on FPPC Compliance
ATKINSON, ANDELSON, LOYA, RUDD & ROMO
The attendee will learn the various ethics and conflict of interest
requirements, including legal prohibitions and mandated disclosure
obligations under California Law. This breakout will be useful for public
officials and employees who are required to file Form 700s,.
Negotiating with Employee Organizations –
How to Avoid Disasters
BEST BEST & KRIEGER LLP
A summary of legislative changes related to public sector labor
relations over the past year and a review of recent decisions from
the Public Employment Relations Board affecting how special districts
must interact with employee organizations.
Is Your District as Good as it Could Be? What Your Board and
Staff Can Do to be Even Better
RAUCH COMMUNICATION CONSULTANTS
How your board, manager and staff can work together as a team to
improve every aspect of your district through smart planning, clear
internal communication and adherence to proper roles and relationships.
Payments for State Mandates & What Programs are
Still Available
NICHOLS CONSULTING
With the State’s fiscal outlook improving, the State began making
payments for the outstanding programs in October 2014. More
programs are expected to be paid this fall with additional and final
payments possible in 2016. At this session attendees with learn what
payments have been made, what they represent and what payments
are likely to be paid in the fall of 2015 and 2016.
Mix & Mingle in the
EXHIBIT Hall
4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Mix & Mingle in the Exhibit Hall:
Grand Prize Drawings
Connect with exhibitors in the exhibit hall for a
cocktail and appetizer before you head out to
dinner. Be sure to enter for one more chance to
win one of our fabulous prizes!
Entertainment by jazz duet Dizzy Burnett and
Grover Coe, covering jazz, blues, and popular
standards with pizzazz.
9
Program
WEDNESDAY - Sept. 23
11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
CSDA Finance Corporation Board and Annual Meeting
11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. (BREAKOUT SESSIONS)
Liability - What Exactly is a Dangerous
Condition of Public Property?
SPECIAL DISTRICT RISK MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY (SDRMA)
This workshop will discuss the legal issues relating to the public entity’s
statutory duty regarding premises/operations liability exposures. Is every
condition dangerous? Does there have to be a physical “defect” to be
dangerous? What is a trivial defect? We will discuss current California law
and recent court decisions affecting public entity liability.
Rock the Vote without Rocking the Boat: Election Laws
This topic covers laws applicable to special district elections, including
but not limited to the restriction on the use of district resources for
campaigning, validation actions, and ballot measure elections. It will cover
the latest cases and statutes that impact such elections.
Informing Solid Board Decisions
KAMPA COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS LLC
This session will provide district board members and managers with
the tools necessary to optimize the amount and type of agendasupporting information provided to the board and public in advance of
each meeting so they can prepare to make knowledge-based decisions
while providing a solid public record to increase transparency and
accountability.
Stop Fraud Before it Starts: Internal Controls and Fraud
Prevention for Those Charged With Governance
ROGERS ANDERSON MALODY & SCOTT LLP
This session will cover internal controls and fraud prevention. Attendees
will become familiar with internal controls and the control environment,
policies and procedures and the evaluation of internal controls, learn
causes of fraud and preventing fraud, and learn common types of fraud.
10
Building Relationships in the Capitol: A Panel Discussion
CSDA
Do new laws imposed at the Capitol keep impacting your district’s
budget and operations? How can your district start impacting the State
Capitol? Learn some simple steps for building successful relationships
with decision-makers in the Capitol and how those relationships can
benefit your district! You will be sure to come away from this session
with some new dos and don’ts and tips and tricks. We will cover
everything from the basics to the more advanced efforts, like branding
your district in the Capitol and identifying surrogates.
Affordable Care Act – Planning to Deal with the Pay-or-Play
Penalties Effective 1/1/15
HANSON BRIDGETT LLP
Effective 2015, significant tax penalties will apply to large employers
who do not offer qualifying health coverage to substantially all full-time
employees. Join us for a comprehensive overview of the employer-shared
responsibility rules, and what you need to do to comply with the new
law to avoid these penalties. Learn what you need to know about how
these rules may affect both the financial and administrative aspects of your
business operations. We will also discuss the new information reporting
requirements that apply beginning in 2016 for coverage offered in 2015.
Strategies to Lower Both Your OPEB and Pension Liabilities
PARS
This session will address the latest funding strategies and trends to
reduce both OPEB and pension liabilities. Our expert panel will address
questions your district needs to know such as: How can my district
reduce its retiree health care obligations? What benefit and funding
strategies should my district consider? What options do I have available
to lower my pension liabilities and improve my NPL (GASB 68)?
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9:00 – 10:45 a.m.
SDRMA General Session, Safety Awards,
and Keynote Presentation Michael Bazzell,
Computer Security Specialist & Privacy Consultant,
author of Hiding from the Internet: Eliminating Personal
Online Information and Personal Digital Security:
Protecting Yourself from Online Crime
CSDA Annual
AWARDS LUNCHEON
12:30 – 2:00 p.m.
CSDA Annual Awards Luncheon
Join us as we celebrate the best of special districts with awards
including: Board President, General Manager and Chapter of the Year,
the prestigious William Hollingsworth Award of Excellence, Special
District Leadership Foundation (SDLF) awards and more!
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LEA
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SPEC
IAL
8:15 – 9:00 a.m.
SDRMA Sponsored Full Plated Breakfast
Building Better Buildings: What to do Before
you Begin Construction
CSDA FINANCE CORPORATION, LIEBERT CASSIDY WHITMORE
AND WARD YOUNG ARCHITECTURE & PLANNING
Join finance, legal and architecture experts who will help you plan for
a successful building project. Attendees will learn: how to select an
architect; the process for design; about arranging financing sources and
entering into finance agreements; preparing for bidding; an overview of
the bidding process including authorization from the board to obtain
bids and the notice to proceed; and contractor requirements. Don’t put
on your hard hat until you attend this session!
Liability – Employment Law Update
This workshop will discuss the current status of California Employment
Law. Between the Legislature and the courts, employment law is
subjected to constant change. We will discuss pregnancy disability leave
laws; the good faith interactive process; reasonable accommodations and
protected leave (FMLA/CFRA).
Workers’ Compensation – The Clock is Ticking
This workshop will discuss the specific statutory time limits involving
the notification of a workers’ compensation claim and the provision of
medical treatment and disability benefits to the injured employee. When
does Temporary Disability start? And when does it stop? How long do
Permanent Disability payments last?
Financial Leadership: A Guide to Special District Fiscal Health
JAMES MARTA & COMPANY LLP, CPAs
Special district best practices identify specific policies and procedures
as contributing to improved special district management. This session
aims to promote and facilitate positive change rather than merely codify
current accepted practice. We will discuss and share current and best
practices for: accounting, auditing and financial reporting, budgeting
and fiscal policy, long-term fiscal management, reserves, information
technology, and financial leadership. This session is designed to be
interactive so participants can share what works and what doesn’t given
current economic conditions, staffing and management.
SB 854: Administration of Prevailing Wage Requirements
on Public Projects
CONTRACTOR COMPLIANCE AND MONITORING
SB 854 is requiring new contract clauses, new registration of public
works projects by agencies, new requirements for contractors and
new rules and regulations relating to the implementation and delivery
of certified payrolls. The DIR will roll out its new eCPR program in
May with lots of “new improvement” throughout the year. Come learn
about the new requirements and best practices in managing new
prevailing wage obligations for agencies.
Can’t We All Just Get Along? Keys to Understanding and
Working with Your LAFCO
CALAFCO AND MONTEREY LAFCo
Do you ever wonder who LAFCo really is and why they make the
decisions they do? As a special district are you represented on your
region’s LAFCo and a part of that decision-making process? Join us
for this fun and informative session in which you will be given the
keys to understanding and working with your LAFCo. We will discuss
LAFCo authority (the can-do and the cannot-do), share insights on
why decisions are made the way they are, and explore the changing
landscape of LAFCos and special districts.
Onboarding the Board: Properly Preparing New Board
Members for Service
New board members need a good start. Proper and comprehensive
orientation to public service, decision making, communications, roles and
responsibilities and authorities is crucial as they begin their service to the
public.The instructor will provide you with what you ought to know as
a new board member, as well as what you should do as an agency to
properly prepare for effectively onboarding your new members.
“This conference gave me insight
and solutions to issues that my
district is seeking to overcome.”
Al Morrissette
Phelan Pinon Hills Community Services District
ADERS
HI
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ONFERENC
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day
nes23
.
ept
2014 Chapter President of the Year
Presented by Brent Ives to Kathleen
Coates Hedberg.
2014 Innovative Program Award
Presented by Marty Boyer (left) to
Administrative Support Supervisor
Becky Aguilar, Monterey Regional
Waste Management District.
Brent Ives prepares to announce the 2014 Chapter President of the Year
award during the Annual Awards Luncheon.
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Program
WEDNESDAY - Sept. 23
Brown Act Update – Can We Talk?
This workshop will focus on how and when board members
communicate in order to comply with the Brown Act. Is every
communication, regardless of the form or type, subject to the Brown
Act? Is an agenda really necessary? Is every document a public record?
What is a privileged statement?
GASB Reporting Requirements and Their Impact
on Your Special District
MANN URRUTIA NELSON CPAs
The governmental accounting and financial reporting landscape
gets more complex each year. Some of the more complex GASB
pronouncements have been issued in recent years can have a major
impact on your district’s finances. This course will provide you with an
update of GASB requirements and provide relevant steps you can take
to minimize their impact on your district.
Coaching for Performance
CPS HR CONSULTING
The three keys to successful leadership are knowing your people, getting
results and establishing a positive work environment. Coaching is the
leadership competency that creates development and growth within all
three keys. Coaching is a process that enables learning and development
to occur and performance to improve. We will explore this process and
how you can improve performance and overcome barriers.
Welcome to the Fishbowl: An Interactive
Government Ethics Workshop
HANSON BRIDGETT LLP
Come take a turn in the hot seat, try to stump your friends or
just watch the show as we take a trip through Ethicsland and the
unpredictability of local government. Join us as we practice applying rules
concerning conflicts of interest, government transparency and more!
This is not your grandma’s ethics training.
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Special District Financing and Ballot Measures from A to Z
RICHARDS WATSON GERSHON
Economically-challenging environments call for effective financing solutions.
A team of professionals will walk you through the various types of special
district financing measures, including special ballot measures, and provides
insight into the legal challenges and pitfalls to avoid, as you work through
the process of seeking needed revenue to support your work.
Get the Most Out of Your Board Committees
KAMPA COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS, LLC
Using committees of the board can be one of the most effective time
management strategies to keep regular board meetings focused and on
task. Committees inform the decisions of the full board by engaging the
public in discussions, providing a venue for sharing thoughts and ideas in
a less formal setting, and reviewing options and staff recommendations.
This session will provide methods to guide management and the board
in establishing proven effective committees, defining their roles and
responsibilities, and creating operating procedures that really work.
Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF)
TASTE OF THE CITY
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
BBQ, Blues & Brews
Join us for an evening of all things awesome…BBQ, Blues and Brews!
Sample local BBQ and craft brews while we enjoy the band Bleu,
featuring a soulful set list of vintage blues, gospel and Americana music.
S
OR • PECIAL
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This party has a purpose. Attendees at this reception will have the
opportunity to participate in the SDLF silent auction to raise funds for
scholarships for the Special District Leadership Foundation programs.
A special wine raffle will also be held at 7:30 p.m. Be sure to purchase
tickets throughout the conference for the chance to win a deluxe
35-bottle wine cellar fully-stocked - almost a $1,000 value. You must be
present to win!
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Program
THURSDAY - Sept. 24
8:30 – 10:00 a.m. (BREAKOUT SESSIONS)
Community Engagement without Breaking the Bank
SCI CONSULTING GROUP
Positive, consistent engagement forms the basis for strong ongoing community
support of special districts There are easy ways to make outreach and education
part of the standard operating procedures without hurting a budget.
Chapter Roundtable Discussion
Join CSDA board members and local chapter leaders from across the state to
share best practices and discuss issues and opportunities.
Generations in the Workplace
PLACER COUNTY WATER AGENCY
For the first time in history, four and perhaps five generations may be working
side-by-side in our organizations.The differing values, beliefs and perspectives
that result from this multi-generational workforce can create challenges
among employees and for managers.This session will explain generational
differences and provide strategies to recruit, retain and engage a productive
and motivated workforce.
Disruptive Behavior at Board Meetings: Balancing the
Constitutional Rights of Citizens with the Duty to Conduct
Meetings in an Orderly Manner
COTA COLE LLP
Board members and district staff are occasionally required to address the
disruptive behavior of citizens during board meetings. In addressing disruptive
behavior, districts must carefully balance their duty to preserve order and
decorum with the constitutional rights of their citizens.This session will
address what pitfalls to avoid in dealing with disruptive parties and what the
more legally defensible options are for maintaining order at meeting.
Drought Discourse: A Panel Discussion:
KAMPA COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS (MODERATOR), CALIFORNIA
STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD – DIVISION OF
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE, METROPOLITAN WATER DISTRICT OF
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA AND CALIFORNIA WATER COMMISSION
Join us for a lively panel discussion regarding all things related to the California
drought. Learn more about emergency drought legislation, including where
the money is dedicated, how to apply for it, and how agencies can be
successful in the application process, how drought conditions are affecting all
types of special districts, new conservation requirements and more.
Uh-Oh! How to Steer the Ship Back to Safety in Emergency Situations
MEYERS NAVE
Natural disasters, political dramas, personnel issues, and capital projects gone
awry are just some possibilities that could plunge a district into emergency
mode. We’ll provide the tools to navigate these crises with composure, in
both short- and long-terms.
10:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (CLOSING BRUNCH)
2015 Legislative Update:
The Impact on Your Special District
CSDA’s advocacy team will present attendees with the most up-todate information on the outcome of the biggest state budget and
legislative issues impacting special districts in 2015, as well as a sneak
peak of what to expect in 2016. This year included major proposals
on property taxes, new “green” local revenue opportunities, mandates,
mandates, mandates, and the continued implementation of public
employee pension reforms. Get all the latest legislative results and learn
what they mean for special districts going forward.
Kyle Packham
Christina Lokke
Dillon Gibbons
Jimmy MacDonald
“These conferences are a great, oncea-year opportunity for special district
elected officials and managers to
share and learn among our peers.”
Joe Barget, SDA
Vandenberg Village Community Services District
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2015 Conference
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
Creative Strategies for Turning Challenges into Opportunity
and Change into Advantage
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2015
Registration
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
So You Want to Be A General Manager?*
8:00 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.
SDLF: Special District Administrator (SDA) Exam
9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Building Confidence in Public Speaking*
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Special District Leadership Academy Module 1: Governance Foundations*
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Communication Strategies for Board Members and General Managers*
12:00 - 3:00 p.m.
CSDA Annual Golf Tournament*
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Elk Horn Slough Safari ™ and Moss Landing Harbor District Tours*
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Pure Water Monterey Tour*
12:00 - 3:00 p.m.
District NetWorks Meetings
4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
President’s Reception with the Exhibitors
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2015
Registration
7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Exhibitor Showcase Open
7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Continental Breakfast with the Exhibitors
7:30 - 8:45 a.m.
Opening Keynote Presentation: Peter Sheahan - FLIP! Creative Strategies for Turning Challenges into
Opportunity and Change into Advantage
9:00 - 10:45 a.m.
Breakout Session Options
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Lunch with the Exhibitors
12:00 - 1:45 p.m.
2:00 - 3:15 p.m.
3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Mix and Mingle in the Exhibit Hall + Grand Prize Drawing
4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Closes
6:00 p.m.
Registration
All day
SDRMA sponsored full plated breakfast
8:15 - 9:00 a.m.
SDRMA General Session, Safety Awards and Keynote Presentation: Michael Bazzell - Hiding from the Internet
9:00 - 10:45 a.m.
CSDA Finance Corporation Board Meeting
11:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
11:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
CSDA Annual Awards Luncheon
12:30 - 2:00 p.m.
2:15 - 3:30 p.m.
3:45 - 4:45 p.m.
SDLF Taste of the City Event: BBQ, Blues and Brews
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
* pre-registration/payment required
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2015
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015
Registration
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
8:30 - 10:00 a.m.
Closing Brunch: 2015 Legislative Update
10:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
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2015 Conference
ATTENDEE REGISTRATION FORM
one form per attendee, please print
Three Ways to Register:
1. ONLINE by visiting the CSDA Annual Conference website at conference.csda.net
2. FAX your registration form to 916-520-2465. All faxed forms must include payment.
3. MAIL CSDA, 1112 I Street, Suite 200, Sacramento, CA 95814, please include registration form
along with payment. Check should be made payable to: California Special Districts Association.
Not sure if you are a member?
Contact the CSDA office at 877-924-2732 to find out if your agency or company is already a
member. To learn more about the benefits of membership contact Cathrine Lemaire at
[email protected] or call toll-free 877-924-2732.
Name:
Registration fee includes:
• President’s Reception with the Exhibitors Monday evening
• Keynote Sessions and all Breakout Sessions
• Continental Breakfast with the Exhibitors on Tuesday
• Lunch with the Exhibitors on Tuesday
• Mix and Mingle in the Exhibit Hall on Tuesday
• SDRMA Full Plated Breakfast on Wednesday
• Awards Luncheon on Wednesday
• SDLF “Taste of the City” Reception on Wednesday
• Closing Brunch on Thursday
Title:
District:
Address: City: State:
Phone: Fax: Zip:
Email:
Website:
Emergency Contact:
Member status:
Member
Non-member
Vegetarian
Conference Registration Fees
Any Special Needs:
Early Bird (on or before Aug. 14)
Regular (after Aug. 14)
CSDA Member - Full Conference
$550.00
$600.00
Non-member - Full Conference
$750.00
$800.00
Guest - Full Conference (Cannot be from a district/company)
Vegetarian
$260.00
$300.00
CSDA Member - One-day registration
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
$260.00 each day
$275.00 each day
Non-member - One-day registration
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
$375.00 each day
$435.00 each day
Member
Non-member
Pre-Conference Workshop: SDLA Module 1: Governance Foundations - Sept. 21
$225.00
$375.00
Pre-Conference Workshop: Building Confidence in Public Speaking - Sept. 21
$225.00
$375.00
Pre-Conference Workshop: Comm. Strategies for Board Members & Gen. Man. - Sept. 21
$125.00
$175.00
Pre-Conference Workshop: So You Want to Be A General Manager? - Sept. 21
$100.00 (includes breakfast and lunch) (limited to 20 attendees)
Tour: Moss Landing Harbor District and Elkhorn Slough Safari™ - Sept. 21
$ 48.00 (includes transportation) (limited to 21 attendees)
Tour: Pure Water Monterey, Monterey Peninsula Water Management District and Monterey
Regional Water Pollution Control Agency - Sept. 21
$ 45.00 (includes transportation and lunch)
CSDA Golf Tournament - Sept. 21
$ 95.00 (includes lunch)
CSDA Awards Luncheon (Guests only) - Sept. 23
$ 40.00
SDLF “Taste of the City” Reception (Guests only) - Sept. 23
$ 55.00
Separate Registration Fees
SUBTOTAL
SUBTOTAL
TOTAL
Payment type:
Check
Visa
MasterCard
AMEX
Discover
Account name:
Account Number:
Expiration date:
Authorized Signature:
Cancellations/Substitution Policy: Cancellations must be in writing and received by CSDA not later than August 28, 2015. All cancellations received by this date will be refunded
less a $75 processing fee. There will be no refunds for cancellations made after August 28, 2015. Substitutions are acceptable and must be done in writing no later than September 4,
2015. Please submit any cancellation notice or substitution request to [email protected] or fax to 916-520-2465.
Consent to Use Photographic Images: Registration and attendance at, or participation in, CSDA meeting and other activities constitutes an agreement by the registrant to CSDA’s
use and distribution (both now and in the future) of the registrant or attendee’s image or voice in photographs, videotapes, electronic reproductions and audiotapes of such events and
activities.
15
Draft INTINERARY
INSPECTION TRIP OF THE STATE WATER PROJECT
and the SACRAMENTO-SAN JOAQUIN DELTA
Sponsored by
Director Michael Touhey
The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
Representing Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal
Water District
Saturday - Sunday, September 12-13, 2015
Saturday, September 12
6:00 a.m.
-
Meet at MWD’s Weymouth Treatment Plant
700 Moreno Ave., La Verne
USGVMWD contact: Patty Cortez (626) 453-6630
MWD Contact: Al Mendez (562) 298-8071
6:30 a.m.
-
Depart promptly for Ontario Airport via Silverado Stage Coach
7:00 a.m.
-
Arrive at the Ontario Airport
8:00 a.m.
-
Depart on Southwest Flight #2557 to San Jose
9:10 a.m.
-
Arrive San Jose International Airport
9:30 a.m.
-
Depart San Jose Airport for San Luis Reservoir, Gustine
Overview California Agriculture and the Central Valley
Mike Wade, California Farm Water Coalition (En route)
10:45 a.m.
-
Arrive San Luis Reservoir
Briefing on current water issues and agriculture
Water in the mainstem of the California
Aqueduct flows south by gravity into the San Luis
Joint-Use Complex, which was designed and
constructed by the federal government and is
operated and maintained by the Department of
Water Resources. Within the complex are O’Neill
Forebay, Sisk Dam and San Luis Reservoir, the
nation’s largest offstream reservoir (it has no
natural watershed), the Gianelli PumpingGenerating Plant, Dos Amigos Pumping Plant,
and the San Luis Canal. This section of the
California Aqueduct serves both the SWP and the
federal Central Valley Project.
www.mwdh2o.com
11:30 a.m.
-
Depart For Los Baños
12:00 a.m.
-
Lunch at Woolgrowers Restaurant
609 H Street, Los Baños
1:30 p.m.
-
Depart Los Baños for Firebaugh
2:00 p.m.
-
Arrive at Del Bosque Farms
51481 W Shields Ave, Firebaugh
Del Bosque Farms grows fresh fruits, nuts, and
vegetables on the Great Westside of the San
Joaquin Valley, and is an advocate for
agriculture, water supply, and farm workers.
Firebaugh, Calif., melon grower Joe L. Del
Bosque is the son of a migrant farm worker; he
earned his way through college as a farm
worker, and his wife Maria Gloria Del Bosque
is a former migrant worker who immigrated to
this country with her family.
3:30 p.m.
-
Tour Panoche Drainage District
Quietly whirring away in a dusty field in the Central
Valley is a shiny solar energy machine that may
someday solve many of California's water
problems.
It's called the WaterFX solar thermal desalination
plant, and it has been turning salty, contaminated
irrigation runoff into ultra-pure liquid for nearly a
year for the Panoche Water and Drainage District.
It's the only solar-driven desalination plant of its kind in the country - Kevin Fagan is
a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer
4:45 p.m.
-
Depart for Fresno
5:45 p.m.
-
Arrive at Fresno Hotel and Conference Center
2233 Ventura St, Fresno
(559) 268-1000
6:45 p.m.
-
Depart for Dinner
7:00 p.m.
-
Dinner at Manhattan Steakhouse
1371 Bullard Avenue
Fresno, CA 93711
(916) 442-8226
8:30 p.m.
-
Arrive at Fresno Hotel and Conference Center
2233 Ventura St, Fresno
www.mwdh2o.com
Sunday, September 13
7:00 a.m.
-
Breakfast in Hotel before departure –
8:00 a.m.
-
Depart hotel for California State University, Fresno
International Center for Water Technology
5370 N Chestnut Ave, Fresno
8:30 a.m.
-
Arrive California State University, Fresno
International Center for Water Technology
The International Center for Water
Technology was established to provide
education and research to assist in
developing and adopting innovative
solutions and technologies that improve
water use efficiency. The program’s broad
mandate includes water supply and
quality;
flood
protection;
and
environmental enhancement. Activities focus on extended education, laboratory and
field research, and policy development. Water is a finite resource. Responsible
management requires the inclusion of all stakeholders to determine appropriate longterm use and allocation. While the program targets opportunities and issues within
the San Joaquin Valley region, solutions and experiences are applicable worldwide.
10:00 a.m.
-
Depart for Bakersfield
12:00 p.m.
-
1:30 p.m.
-
Lunch at La Costa Mariscos
3401 Chester Avenue
(661) 322-2655
Depart for Pyramid Lake
2:30 p.m.
-
Arrive DWR's Vista Del Lago Visitors Center
Vista Del Lago Rd.
With a sweeping view of Pyramid Lake from its
wraparound balcony, Vista del Lago Visitors
Center is the largest of DWR's three information
facilities. Resident tour guides offer guests both
personal and school tours. And as installation
of new exhibits continues, the center now
supports
California's
Education
and
Environment Initiatives (EEI) Curriculum.
3:00 p.m.
-
Depart for La Verne
5:00 p.m.
-
Arrive at Weymouth Treatment Plant
* * * * * * * * *
Emergency Contact
www.mwdh2o.com
In case of emergency during this trip, telephone contact to our group may be made through MWD’s
24-hour Security Watch Center, (800) 555-5911. Inform the operator that you are calling for an
inspection trip guest with Dir. Touhey and Inspection Trip Specialist Al Mendez. You may also reach
the group directly by calling Al’s cell: (562) 298-8071 or emailing him at [email protected].
Guidelines for Photography & Audio/Video Recording
To help ensure the security of Metropolitan’s operations and facilities, taking photographs, making audio
recordings and/or videotaping are strictly prohibited except where indicated by Metropolitan staff. For
the privacy and comfort of all participants, guests are requested to seek permission before taking photos
or recordings of other participants.
All photographs and audio/video recordings are assumed to be for a participant’s personal use. The
release or presentation of any photos or audio/videotapes for public viewing (e.g. on Facebook,
YouTube, agency website or at a public meeting) requires Metropolitan’s prior approval and the written
permission of any identifiable persons in the photo or videotape. All such photos and presentations
must clearly indicate the party or parties that have made or produced them, that Metropolitan is NOT
responsible for their content or display, and that Metropolitan is not endorsing any party or parties that
have taken or produced the photos or videos. Use of photographs, audio or video recordings taken
during an inspection trip for commercial purposes is strictly prohibited.
For your convenience, Metropolitan maintains a portal of pre-approved photos of the various facilities
and sites that are typically included on our Southern California inspection trip itineraries. You may
access these photos at:
http://www.mwdh2o.com/DocSvcsPubs/inspection-trip/
www.mwdh2o.com
Official
Region 8 Board Ballot
2016-2017
Term
Clear Form
1
Nominating Committee’s Recommended Slate
I concur with the Region 8 Nominating Committee’s recommended slate
below.
Chair:
• Michael Touhey, Board President, Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal
Water District
Vice Chair:
• Stephen L. Cole, General Manager, Newhall County Water District
Please return completed
ballot by September 30, 2015
Board Members:
• Frederick “Brian” Bowcock, Director, Three Valleys Municipal Water District
• William Cooper, Director, Castaic Lake Water Agency
• Gloria D. Gray, Board President, West Basin Municipal Water District
• Michael Holmes, General Manager, Walnut Valley Water District
• Melvin L. Matthews, Director, Foothill Municipal Water District
E-mail:[email protected]
Mail:ACWA
Sacramento, CA 95814
OR
General Voting
Instructions:
Individual Board Candidate Nominations
(See Rules & Regulations before selecting)
1 You may either vote for
the slate recommended by
the Region 8 Nominating
Committee or vote for
individual region board
members (please note rules
& regulations for specific
qualifications). Mark the
appropriate box to indicate
your decision.
I do not concur with the Region 8 Nominating Committee’s recommended
slate. I will vote for individual candidates below as indicated.
Candidates for Chair: (Choose one)
Michael Touhey, Board President, Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal
Water District
Candidates for Vice Chair: (Choose one)
Stephen L. Cole, General Manager, Newhall County Water District
Leonard E. Polan, Director, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District
2 Complete your agency
information. The
authorized representative
is determined by your
agency in accordance with
your agency’s policies and
procedures.
Candidates for Board Members: (Max of 5 choices)
Frederick “Brian” Bowcock, Director, Three Valleys Municipal Water
District
Stephen L. Cole, General Manager, Newhall County Water District
William Cooper, Director, Castaic Lake Water Agency
Gloria D. Gray, Board President, West Basin Municipal Water District
Michael Holmes, Director, Walnut Valley Water District
Melvin L. Matthews, Director, Foothill Municipal Water District
Leonard E. Polan, Director, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District
Michael Touhey, Board President, Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal
Water District
Region 8 Rules &
Regulations:
At least one of the chair or vice
chair positions must be an
elected / appointed director
from a member agency.
2
Agency Name
Submit
Authorized Representative
Date
Californians Cut Water Use by More Than 27% in June
acwa.com /news/water-supply-challenges/californians-cut-water-use-over-27-june
Californians exceeded Gov. Jerry Brown’s call for an
overall 25% reduction in water use – saving 27.3% in
June -- even as record-breaking heat gripped much of
the state, according to data released by the State
Water Resources Control Board today.
The conservation figures are welcome news to state
and local officials who have been working diligently to
send the message of conservation during the state’s
ongoing drought. The figures also are the first
conservation levels reported under the state’s new
mandatory water reductions. Under State Water Board
regulations, areas throughout the state must conserve between 4% and 36% over 2013 figures.
“The June numbers tell a story of conscious conservation,” Felicia Marcus, chair of the State Water Board,
said in a media call. “We do need to keep it up…We need to keep exceeding that 25% figure over the
summer months.”
Marcus added that El Nino – the wet weather system many climatologists are predicting will occur this
winter – will not cut the need for conservation.
“Even a strong El Nino does not guarantee the kind of rain and snow we need to be an end to the drought,”
said Marcus. “The theme is better to be safer than sorry in the face of uncertainty.”
The newly released conservation report is posted here.
During the press call, officials highlighted several agencies that exceeded their conservation targets,
including the City of Roseville, which cut water use by 39%, and Menlo Park, which cut use by 46%.
Some districts did not reach their targets, including 16 that were more than 15% away from the target.
State Water Board officials said they will be meeting with those agencies in coming days to talk about
mandatory increased conservation and specific actions that may be taken.
In a statement released July 30, ACWA Executive Director Timothy Quinn commended Californians for
their water conservation efforts and applauded local water agencies for their water conservation
messaging.
“Californians around the state are getting the message about the drought and the need to reduce their
water use," Quinn said in the statement. "More and more urban residents are heeding their local water
agency’s call to cut back on outdoor watering and take other measures to save water, with some
communities reporting reductions of 40% or more. We need everyone to keep up the good work as the hot
summer months continue.
“We applaud local water agencies for the hard work and creative approaches they are taking to reach the
public. It’s been a huge lift in a short amount of time, requiring significant resources and customer
engagement. Many agencies began rolling out messaging in late May and June, and it’s great to see those
efforts are bearing fruit. We are pleased to showcase their innovative programs in our Drought Response
State Launches Web Portal to Report Water Waste and
Notify Local Agencies
acwa.com /news/conservation/state-launches-web-portal-report-water-waste-and-notify-local-agencies
In an effort to ratchet up water conservation even
higher in California, state officials today announced
the launch of SaveWater.CA.Gov, a new mobileoptimized website that allows residents to send
pictures of water waste or simply report it from their
smartphones, tablets and computers. The reports are
then filed directly with the local water agency where
the alleged waste is occurring.
The water waste reporting portal arose from a
partnership between the State Water Resources
Control Board and the California Department of
Technology. Those state agencies – and the statewide
conservation program Save Our Water -- announced
the launch of the portal today following the release of
conservation numbers that showed Californians saved 27% more water in June of 2015 than in the same
month of 2013.
“Everyone needs to save water, and this is one effective way alert residents can help everyone – and
every community – save water during this historic drought,” said State Water Resources Control Board
Chair Felicia Marcus. “Every drop saved – and every suspected leak or water waste reported and
corrected – will help stretch the state’s limited water supply, because we don’t know if next year will be a
fifth year of drought.”
Many local water agencies throughout the state already have their own methods for reporting water waste,
whether by email, phone or online app. (To find a specific agency, click here.) SaveWater.CA.Gov is
modeled on sites maintained by local water suppliers and is intended to assist those water suppliers that
may not have the resources to build their own online reporting system. The site is available statewide and
allows users to directly report water waste to the proper authority – anywhere in California.
Through SaveWater.CA.Gov, users can send pictures of leaks or water waste from their devices, then
select the type of water waste from a list of common problems, type in the address where the potential
waste is occurring and click send.The anonymous report is transmitted directly to the water agency that
serves the geographic area where the report is made. Users don’t need to know the name of the local
water agency or how to contact them. The SaveWater.CA.Gov site does it for them.
More than 300 water agencies throughout the state already have signed up to use the tool. All waters
suppliers are encouraged to join SaveWater.CA.Gov to access detailed reports of apparent water waste in
their areas.
“The beauty of this system is that it sends reports directly to the water suppliers…,” Marcus said. “This tool
is a valuable step in the right direction for water suppliers to find out about suspected leaks or
overwatering in their communities.”
The new mobile friendly website can also be found in the California Mobile Gallery: the state’s centralized
location for all mobile apps and websites within the state.
To learn more easy ways to conserve visit Save Our Water. ACWA manages the Save Our Water program
in partnership with the California Department of Water Resources.
Other States Are Using Technology That Could Save California from Drought | StateTech... Page 1 of 4
Are Using
Technology
That Could
Save
California from
Drought
The Golden State is
experiencing one of its worst
droughts ever, but wiser
practices from water
companies could fix the
problem.
by
Julian Kimble
(/author/julian-kimble)
(/author/julian-kimble)
(h

Julian Kimble is an
audience editor for
CDW’s family of
technology websites.
With California facing a fourth grueling year of
drought, Gov. Jerry Brown declared a state of
emergency in January (http://ca.gov/drought/) .
Worse, a recent report claims that inefficient
practices by state water agencies do little to
provide relief. However, using the waterdetection technology that other cities across the
http://statetechmagazine.com/article/2015/08/other-states-are-using-technology-could-save-... 08/06/15
nation are currently testing could be a possible
solution.
The UCLA Institute of the Environment and
Sustainability reached
out to (http://newsroom.ucla.edu/releases/californiawater-agencies-dont-know-how-much-their-pipes-leakucla-report-finds)
10 agencies near Los Angeles,
ultimately determining that six of them lack a
definitive way of knowing how much water has
been lost due to leakage and breaks. Furthermore,
because the state doesn’t enforce water
monitoring, its water retailers haven’t devoted
time or money to the practice.
“It appears that most retailers don’t think of
minimizing leaks and breaks as a conservation
responsibility, despite the cost and scarcity of
water in California,” Madelyn Glickfeld, UCLA
Water Resources Group director and study coauthor, said in a university press release.
Kartiki Naik, the study’s lead author, asserted that
Los Angeles County has no “proactive strategy”
in place for dealing with leaks.
“Only three out of the 10 retailers that we
surveyed used available leak-detection
technology to prevent leaks,” he revealed. “Only
six had a program to replace a certain amount of
old pipe each year, and their maintenance
schedules would take about 100 to 330 years to
replace every pipe.”
Although Glickfield identified Washington, Texas
and Georgia as states that promote watersystem audits and train agencies to do them,
California could take a cue from a neighboring
state: Nevada.
Las Vegas Works Out Its Water
Woes
In June, StateScoop
reported (http://statescoop.com/las-vegas-testswireless-water-main-monitoring/)
that the Las Vegas
Valley Water District has been experimenting with
an innovative water management monitoring
system. It’s part of a larger project that aims to
use technology to gather information about
Nevada’s pipelines and the water going through
them. Provided by Mueller Water Products’
Echologics division, it uses sensors that send
water-leak, water-pressure and temperature
information to a water management center.
One advantage of this new technology is that it
results in more consistent data collection.
“Having this out in the field and being able to
collect data consistently between two points
practically at any time gives us some flexibility
that way,” Charles Scott, manager of the asset
management division for the Las Vegas Valley
Water District, told StateScoop. Scott noted that
these monitors allow cities to prevent leaks
before they become major issues.
“By putting these monitors in, we’re … basically
being able to monitor the pipe and detect small
leaks and being able to make repairs to the pipe
before they [get] to be large events.”
The Las Vegas Valley Water District’s system
may be new, but it’s been successful. According to
StateScoop, its water-loss rate is 5 percent—a
gem compared with older water systems, which
have leakage-related water loss that’s as high as
50 percent. Intrigued by this effectiveness,
Atlanta and Los Angeles are testing with the same
breakthroughs technology. As California’s
drought drags on, perhaps the state should tap
into the resources that Nevada (and one of its
own cities) is testing to eliminate future problems.
THINKSTOCK
California's Drought Has Triggered a Synthetic Turf War | Inverse
Page 1 of 6
California's Drought Has Triggered
a Synthetic Turf War
Four years into a historic drought, the Golden State is
share
browning around the edges and a turf war is gaining
momentum. As state officials urge Californians to abandon
tweet
their thirsty lawns — the average American patch sucks
down 10,000 gallons of water per year
(http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/ConserveWater.htm) —
for the sake of ecology and economy, people are looking
for alternative ways to spend green to make green. That’s
where Victor Lanfranco, major player in the fake grass
game, comes in. He’s looking to capitalize and, unless the
https://www.inverse.com/article/5071-california-s-drought-has-triggered-a-synthetic-turf-war
08/05/15
Page 2 of 6
do just that.
Lanfranco, who runs jolly turf giant Synthetic Grass
Warehouse (http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/),
told Inverse that it’s shaping up to be a bumper year for
fake grass. Last year, Americans installed about 110 million
square feet of synthetic grass. In 2015, Lanfranco says, the
square footage of turf laid down is on track to double to
220 million.
As you might expect, Lanfranco waxes hyper-enthusiastic
about the grass he sells. The stuff put down in front yards,
which goes by names like Tiger Turf or Nature’s Blend, is
“10 light-years ahead of AstroTurf,” he says. (You get the
sense that if AstroTurf had a grave, Lanfranco would be
dancing on it.) That precursor to synthetic lawns, the
uniform cartoon-green carpet first introduced to the world
via the Houston Astrodome, was manufactured using “very
ancient techniques.”
What does 10 light-years in grass technology get you?
Here’s the SGW sales pitch: Polypropylene or recycledpetroleum monofilaments, distributed individually in
different sizes that sprout across a lush landscape. The
blades have had the Crayola crayon treatment: Each
filament is one of four or five green shades with every
eighth blade dyed brown for verisimilitude.
08/05/15
Page 3 of 6
“What we’re trying to do is look exactly like real grass,”
Lanfranco says. “The only difference is you don’t need to
cut, water, or fertilize it.”
If a ticker on his website
(http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/) is to be
believed, Tiger Turf has saved the world 47 billion gallons
of water since January 2008. The last major hurdle for
synthetic grass to overcome, as he sees it, is that left to
broil in the sun these plastic lawns have a tendency to get
warm. (Or, as it were, unbearably hot
(http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/in-droughtplagued-california-the-grass-is-gettinggreener/2015/05/23/71c14b2e-ff13-11e4-805cc3f407e5a9e9_story.html)). But a new, cooler yarn
formulation is on the horizon. And unlike the sports turf,
there’s no underlying layer of crumb rubber, which in
08/05/15
Page 4 of 6
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21797769).
But according to Laurel Warddrip of the California State
Water Resources Control Board
(http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/), installing synthetic grass
is like putting a band-aid on a scar. Fake grass can’t
sequester carbon or nitrogen the way plants do, so it makes
it hard for the surface to breathe. Plus, there’s a churning
microbial ecosystem, which winds through the roots around
topsoil, that acts as a biological filter for stormwater.
Without the critters in the topsoil, Warddrip worries that
pollutants could sheet off fake lawns and into drains.
Warddrip champions a third path between water-guzzling
lawns or synthetic grass: the “drought-friendly” landscape.
Here, native plants accustomed to the drought or desert
environments replace lawns.
08/05/15
Page 5 of 6
“These yards are beautiful,” she says. “You get birds and
bees, and low use, if at all, of pesticides.” There are
vouchers in many areas of California that make these
comparable in cost, she says, if not cheaper than synthetic
grass. Environmental groups have created planting guides
for a variety of local California climates, with river(http://www.ecolandscape.org/riverfriendly/), bay(https://www.bayfriendlycoalition.org/) and ocean-friendly
(http://www.surfrider.org/programs/entry/ocean-friendlygardens) vegetation matrices.
Despite this push for natural landscapes, synthetic grass
isn’t going anywhere. It’s good to be Victor Lanfranco right
now. And Victor Lanfranco thinks it’s going to be good to
be him for some time. The guy sees potential everywhere:
At pet parks! Stretched across the tops of buildings! In
08/05/15
Page 6 of 6
expos! In Seattle “where it rains!”
Lanfranco may, in fact, be on to something when he wants
to cover a planet in artificial turf — just not ours. He was
approached, Lanfranco says, by a California scientist
putting together a model of what a Mars habitat would
look like 60 years in the future. You wouldn’t be able to
ship synthetic grass to Mars — it’s too heavy — but what
about manufacturing it there? That’s a great idea,
Lanfranco says. And don’t stop once you’ve turned the Red
Planet green: “The Moon would be a great area for artificial
turf.”
Photos via SWRCB – Storm Water Unit and Flickr.com/desalvea
08/05/15
This drought tolerant licorice plant has a unique look - CAdrought.com
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Page 1 of 5
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About
July 24, 2015 by Joshua Siskin
This drought tolerant licorice plant has a
unique look
Tropaeolum majus ‘Alaska.’ Photo by Joshua Siskin.
Who says that nonstop flowering plants are every gardener’s dream? Sometimes foliage can
just as easily make your day, your nighttime dreams and even your year, since a lot of
memorable foliage happens to be evergreen so you are privileged to see it each time you step
into your garden.
Every now and then, but not nearly often enough, I lay my eyes on a licorice plant. No, this
is not a plant from which licorice confections are made but it does have a licorice scent on
hot summer days. It is impossible not to love licorice plant. Two versions are seen, the
standard gray species (Helichrysum petiolare) and a chartreuse cultivar known as
‘Limelight.’
No plant covers the ground or spills out of a flowerpot with more grace and charm than
Helichrysum. Helichrysums have soft foliage that you must touch and, although they do not
visibly respond when you do so, I have a feeling they don’t mind this tactile attention at all.
And yes, licorice plant has a most distinguished standing among the pantheon of drought
tolerant ground covers.
Licorice plant shoot terminals (tips) are semi-succulent and thus excellent material for
clonal propagation. The best time of year to propagate by shoot tip cuttings is late fall or
http://www.cadrought.com/this-drought-tolerant-licorice-plant-has-a-unique-look/
07/31/15
This drought tolerant licorice plant has a unique look - CAdrought.com
Page 2 of 5
early spring. Detach 4- to 6-inch shoot tips, remove bottom leaves, and stick in any welldrained garden soil. If soil is hard, soften it with soil amendments or planter mix. The node
or stem joint from which leaves were removed should rest just an inch or so below the soil
surface, the minimum depth needed for the cutting to stand on its own after soil firms
around it. It is from this node that roots are most likely to emerge.
Scores of plants may be propagated this way, including nearly all sage (Salvia) species, all
perennial herbs (rosemary, oregano, lemon verbena, lavender, mint), and geraniums of
every kind. Just make sure to do this during cooler weather or, if you want to try this time of
year, stick your cuttings into soil ensconced in quart- or gallon-size plastic containers (the
type in which nursery stock is grown), and place these containers in dappled light as
opposed to hot sun. After rooting has taken place, you can transplant from container to
garden.
Variegated plants
Plants with green and white variegated leaves, especially when these leaves are roundish
and sizable, add a distinctively clean and refreshing look to any garden, especially in
summer. I saw two such beauties recently and think you should know about them.
One is a variegated nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus ‘Alaska’). Nasturtium, whose young
leaves and flowers are edible, means “twisted nose” in Latin (nasus is nose, tortus is twisted)
and references its sharp, peppery flavor. Nasturtium is not greedy when it comes to water
and may be planted in either full or partial sun. A bonus of growing it is the large crop of
chickpea-sized seeds it produces. These seeds are easily handled by kids and sprouting them
makes a wonderful first gardening project.
Another green and white leafed selection is leopard plant (Farfugium japonicum ‘Argentea
Variegata’). Its most popular cultivar (‘Aureomaculatum’) has yellow foliar blotches, but the
green and white version is equally arresting. This plant will require regular water and is best
planted in a partially sunny, or even somewhat shady, location, whether in garden soil or in
a patio or balcony container.
And although most people probably don’t know about it, there is a variegated green and
white hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Cooperi’) that, although its flower production is
limited, has stunningly vibrant foliage that can compete with that of any ornamental shrub.
Chinese fringe flower
Driving down La Brea Avenue in West Hollywood the other day, I noticed a colorful leafed
plant outside the studios of the Jim Henson Co. Naturally, I had to stop the car and take a
closer look. The plant turned out to be Chinese fringe flower (Loropetalum chinense),
acclaimed for its pyrotechnic pink flowers and maroon foliage. Even when it’s not in bloom,
you cannot help but stop and take a second look at its leaves.
For more information about area plants and gardens, go to Joshua Siskin’s website at
www.thesmartergardener.com. Send questions and photos to [email protected].
Tags: flowers
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More in Landscaping
•
Southern California water
district ends turf-removal
program due to unprecedented
demandJuly 15, 2015
•
Save a lawn, help a planetJuly
14, 2015
http://www.cadrought.com/this-drought-tolerant-licorice-plant-has-a-unique-look/
07/31/15
Workshops look at water bond storage spending
Page 1 of 2
Workshops look at water bond storage
spending
Issue Date: August 5, 2015
By Kate Campbell
Nine months after California voters passed the Proposition 1 water bond, the
California Water Commission is conducting public workshops to discuss how bond
money for water storage projects might be spent. The $7.12 billion bond measure
includes $2.7 billion set aside for the public benefit of water storage projects.
At a workshop in Davis last week, commission officials indicated it will be several
years before regulations and programs are finalized, and storage project proposals can
be submitted.
Under the bond's provisions, water projects that meet stringent "public benefit" criteria—such as
bolstering ecosystems, bettering water quality, controlling floods and improving recreation—may
begin applying for available bond funding as early as Jan. 1, 2017.
The application process for getting public benefit projects approved and funded from the bond will
require a "variable" number of years beyond that, commission representatives said.
A questioner who attended the Davis workshop asked: "Does that mean five or more years from now
to get a project approved, and many years beyond that to complete it?" The answer: "Yes."
Proposition 1—the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014—requires
development and adoption of project solicitation and evaluation guidelines, which will be vetted
through a series of public comment meetings before being finalized.
The next public workshop will be held Aug. 10, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Bakersfield Senior Center,
530 4th St. in Bakersfield.
"It's important for Farm Bureau members to remind the Water Commission about the need for
significant new water storage projects," California Farm Bureau Federation Administrator Rich
Matteis said. "The workshops provide an opportunity for Farm Bureau members to ask questions and
provide advice about potential projects that would benefit from bond funding."
Marin County rancher Sam Dolcini, who attended a separate workshop in Napa last week, said the
meetings offer "a huge opportunity for agriculture's voice to be heard."
Dolcini said much of the discussion at the workshop focused on "process and procedures," but noted
that the commission remains at the beginning of its storage-approval procedure.
"At this point in the commission's program development, it's important to participate," said Dolcini,
who is president of the Marin County Farm Bureau, adding that he felt it is "important for California
agriculture to be present."
http://agalert.com/story/?id=8602
08/05/15
Workshops look at water bond storage spending
Page 2 of 2
Dolcini said he found it interesting that when officials were asked at the Napa meeting about the goal
for how much water a $2.7 billion investment might provide, there wasn't a specific answer.
"I think it's a great question: Do we have a water goal for these project investments?" Dolcini said.
"Look, we've got $2.7 billion to invest and not a goal in sight. That's one reason why farmers and
ranchers need to be at the table as the project allocation process begins."
Proposition 1 requires the commission to rank projects based on the expected return for public
investment as measured by the magnitude of public benefits provided by the projects, but officials
said that doesn't translate into a certain number of acre-feet of water. The commission must also
develop and adopt methods for quantifying and managing public benefits.
As required by the bond measure, the commission must consider a wide range of proposed projects
that may be eligible for funding, including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Surface storage projects identified in the Cal-Fed Bay-Delta Program Record of Decision;
Groundwater storage projects;
Groundwater contamination prevention or remediation projects with water storage benefits;
Conjunctive use projects;
Reservoir re-operation projects;
Local surface storage projects that improve the operation of water systems in the state and
provide public benefits;
• Regional surface storage projects that improve the operation of water systems.
The commission said in a meeting handout that the maximum state cost-share for public benefits of a
project is 50 percent and to qualify for funding, ecosystem benefits must be 50 percent of the funded
public benefits. The remaining money for storage projects must come from local or other sources.
Dolcini said when asked about specific project proposals at the Napa meeting, officials said they've
heard that as many as 140 proposals could be put forward. However, proposals will not be considered
before 2017.
Sonoma County farmer Tito Sasaki, who also attended the Napa meeting, said most of the discussion
at the workshop focused on the potential environmental benefits of projects but that to him, the most
important thing about the bond funding is to improve the state's water reliability and delivery system.
"It's going to be a long process, and farmers and ranchers need to participate," he said.
Information about upcoming meetings and actions of the California Water Commission may be found
online at https://cwc.ca.gov.
(Kate Campbell is an assistant editor of Ag Alert. She may be contacted at [email protected].)
Permission for use is granted, however, credit must be made to the California Farm Bureau
Federation when reprinting this item.
http://agalert.com/story/?id=8602
08/05/15
http://www.sgvtribune.com/general-news/20150803/southern-california-prepares-for-drought-fueled-megafires-as-wildfires-rage-in-the-north
Southern California prepares for drought-fueled ‘megafires’ as
wildfires rage in the north
By Steve Scauzillo , San Gabriel Valley Tribune
sgvtribune.com
Fires approach a home near Lower Lake, Calif.,
Friday, July 31, 2015. A series of wildfires were
intensified by dry vegetation, triple-digit
temperatures and gusting winds. (AP Photo/Jeff
Chiu)
An
air
tanker
makes
a
retardant
drop
at
dusk
on a
fire
that
started
along Highway 33 at Chorro Grande Trail north of Ojai on Sunday, August 2, 2015. The fire in the Los
Padres Nat. Forest burned through, at least, 200 acres and was being fought by 300 firefighters along with
air tankers and helicopters. (Photo by Mike Meadows)
Wildfires burning in the northern part of the state coupled with a severe drought are worrying local fire
officials, who are preparing for the worst.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department has backfilled all fire stations with additional personnel to make
up for firefighting crews dispatched to Northern California to battle more than 21 blazes active on Monday.
“We are operating at full strength,” said David Dantic, fire inspector with L.A. County Fire, who added that
water and fire-retardant-dropping helicopters stand at the ready.
Fixed-wing aircraft — including the Canadian Super Scooper planes leased by the county — are
scheduled to arrive in L.A. County in about a week or so, he added.
Pat Durland, a wildfire mitigation consultant, former firefighter and fire systems manager with the state
Bureau of Land Management, said chaparral-covered mountains typically burn as part of Mother Nature’s
nutrient replenishment cycle.
However, the drought in the West creates what Durland called “megafires” that burn more intensely and
unpredictably.
“Now, we are seeing fires that are extremely severe, driven by weather and dry fuels and resistant to
control,” said Durland, who is based in Boise, Idaho.
There were no fires burning in the Angeles National Forest on Monday afternoon, said John Wagner, a
spokesman for the Angeles National Forest. The Pine fire, which burned 200 acres near Wrightwood in
mid-July,
Page
1 of 3
is 100 percent contained, he said.
Aug 05, 2015 12:22:36PM MDT
mid-July, is 100 percent contained, he said.
The Scales fire, which ignited Saturday afternoon off the 15 Freeway in Cajon Pass, is 90 percent
contained and holding at 65 acres, said Tracey Martinez, a spokeswoman for the San Bernardino County
Fire Department.
The brush fire ignited about 12:40 p.m. Saturday after a multiple-vehicle collision in the northbound lanes of
the 15 Freeway injured a motorcyclist. While a CHP officer and a firefighter treated the rider, an oxygen
tank exploded, burning the first responders, officials have said. The burning oxygen tank may have also
ignited brush on the east side of the freeway between the truck scales and the Highway 138 exit.
A ditch burned, and the fire hopscotched up a hillside and jumped Highway 138.
Firefighters extinguished flames that burned brush south of the highway and were focusing much of their
efforts on stopping the blaze from spreading farther north of the two-lane highway.
Advertisement
In Northern California, lower temperatures and higher humidity helped firefighters increase containment
from 5 percent to 12 percent around the Rocky fire, the biggest in the state, which consumed 54,000 acres
and destroyed 24 homes in the Lower Lake area about 100 miles north of San Francisco.
The cooler weather helped crews build a buffer Monday between the raging fire and some of the thousands
of homes it threatened as it tore through drought-withered brush that hadn’t burned in years. More than
13,000 people have been forced from their homes or have been warned to leave over the past few days.
The fire roughly tripled in size over the weekend to 93 square miles, generating its own winds that fanned
the flames and reduced thousands of acres of manzanita shrubs and other brush to barren land in hours.
Favorable weather in Southern California today may tamp down any fire outbreaks should they arise,
experts said. The National Weather Service forecasts coastal highs in the upper 70s, with humidity
between 45 percent and 65 percent. In the Southern California mountains, highs will be in the mid-90s,
with humidity ranging from 35 percent to 50 percent, the NWS reported.
Unlike much of Northern California, Los Angeles County was not under a red-flag fire alert Monday, mostly
because the winds were tame, Dantic said. Instead, the fire threat was listed as “moderate,” he said.
Winds are expected to increase slightly today to between 5 mph and 10 mph, with gusts of 20 mph on the
coast and the same or lower in the mountains, according to the NWS.
Although conditions are dry due to four years of drought, winds are relatively calm and that can make a
huge difference between a small fire and one raging out of control, Dantic said.
On Thursday, at 10 a.m., Durland, the wildfire mitigation expert, and the National Fire Protection
Association are hosting a free webinar on fire-proofing homes located near wildlands.
Durland says wildfires can send embers up to a mile away and ignite a roof. “They are like hot matches
dropping down from the sky,” he said.
Shake roofs must be replaced with Class A fire-rated roof coverings that won’t combust. Also, roofs and
gutters must be cleared of pine needles and leaves, which can be ignited by a flying ember. Keep space
around
Page
2 of 3
the home “clean and green,” he said.
Aug 05, 2015 12:22:36PM MDT
around the home “clean and green,” he said.
“Homes don’t have to burn,” he said.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
Reach the author at [email protected] or follow Steve on Twitter:
@stevscaz.
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Aug 05, 2015 12:22:36PM MDT

August 10, 2015 - La Puente Valley County Water District

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