The board authorized issuance of up to $900 million across two bond series and separately adopted Ordinance No. 153 concerning $500 million in revenue bonds for capital expenditures. It awarded a $14.475 million contract to replace canal liner at 25 Colorado River Aqueduct locations and elected Marty Miller, the first San Diego representative to chair Metropolitan, for a term beginning January 1, 2027.
The committee recommended a two-year, $4.2 million conservation contract with Electric & Gas Industries Association for full-board approval. Staff outlined an instream-flow proposal: $70 million upfront for 14,000 acre-feet of State Water Project water in each of up to 10 years when allocations reach at least 30%; directors questioned price and reliability. Bard and Quechan fallowing extensions could go to the board in November; the flow proposal could return in November or later in 2026.
Golden mussel larvae were found in Diamond Valley Lake; they do not affect drinking water safety, and controls are underway. Metropolitan is assessing risks after an El Niño emergency declaration and plans a November update. Ortega appointed Mark Gold chair of the Ad Hoc Committee on Colorado River Negotiations. The committee approved election procedures and Marty Miller as a board chair candidate, and deferred further action on two final ethics findings pending any FPPC action.
Metropolitan staff warned that planned annual Colorado River reductions of 1.25 million acre-feet in 2027 and 2028 may not prevent dead pool if dry conditions persist. Staff called for Metropolitan to join negotiations, while directors discussed a possible basin-wide water leadership council. The subcommittee approved its August 25 minutes. No action was taken on the communications report or closed-session item.
The board took no position on Proposition 45. It deferred the climate adaptation Administrative Code amendment to January 2027. The board approved a $42.7M contract for Colorado River Aqueduct pumping plant piping rehab and a $172.8M Sepulveda Pump Stations Phase 2B agreement increase.
