A CSIP assessment identified gaps in shared governance, while an audit update reported Amendment No. 4 in effect and a consultant selected for an indirect cost-allocation plan. The Board approved an $802,536 groundwater-monitoring agreement, a $400,000 appropriation increase and a $199,070 revenue increase. It recessed to closed session on existing litigation involving California-American Water Company and Marina Coast Water District; Bill Lipe urged regional cooperation beforehand.
A CSIP assessment identified gaps in shared decision-making and recommended stronger coordination, succession planning, and outreach. Staff reported that Finding 4 recommendations from a 2024 expense audit were addressed, while other work continues. The board received an update on roughly $3.9 million in existing GSA subgrants supporting studies and facility improvements; major project decisions are expected in 2026.
The board voted 5-1 against a $75,000 dam-financing advisory amendment amid debate over stakeholder agreement. It voted 5-1 to recommend an $802,536 groundwater-monitoring agreement with the Salinas Valley Basin GSA; the GSA, rather than individual landowners, would be invoiced for this year’s services. Staff targeted a year-end draft of the Salinas River operations habitat plan and announced a September 9 stakeholder workshop.
The Board of Supervisors of the Monterey County Water Resources Agency approved FY 2025-26 per-well groundwater monitoring fees, with first-year GSA funding to help de minimis users. Supervisors raised concerns about their cost share and asked staff to pursue future funding options; Chair Lopez is exploring a legislative change. The board also nominated Shaunna Murray to an advisory committee and rescinded and replaced flood-zone assessment resolutions to correct clerical errors.
The board approved Amendment No. 4 to its Monterey One Water recycling agreement and continued proposed groundwater monitoring fees and budget changes to its first August meeting. Annual per-well fees would be about $140 to $280, with a separate initial registration charge where applicable. A proposed FY 2025-26 grant credit would cover first-year charges if the board adopts the fees and the agency executes a sub-grant agreement.
