HomeMy WebLinkAbout11.10.21 Board Packet UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
NOTICE OF MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability
Agency (“Agency”) Board of Directors (“Board”) will hold its regular Board Meeting at:
1:30 P.M. - Wednesday, November 10, 2021
Zoom Link:
https://mendocinocounty.zoom.us/j/84258664708?pwd=WFZPTVhCbXI1RzVhcExhVkRVWlJ
Mdz09
Meeting ID: 842 5866 4708
Phone: +1 669 900 9128
Passcode: 549864
Topic: UVBGSA Board Meeting
UVBGSA Board meetings will be conducted virtually and not available for in person public participation
pursuant to the provisions of Government Code section 54953 and the recommendation of the Mendocino
County Health Officer.
The public may participate digitally in meetings by sending comments to uvbgsa@mendocinocounty.org
or by clicking the link above to join the Zoom meeting, in lieu of personal attendance.
All email comment must be received by 8:00 A.M. the morning of the meeting in order to be published
online prior to the meeting.
AGENDA
1.CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
a.Discussion and Possible Action Including Adoption of Resolution
of the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Finding that State or Local Officials Continue to Recommend
Mesaures to Promote Social Distancing in Connection with
Public Meetings
2.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3.CONSENT ITEMS
a.Approval of Minutes from the August 13, 2021 Meeting
b.Approval of Minutes from the October 21, 2021 Meeting
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
4. Action Items
a. Presentation from Stantec Consulting Services, Inc., and
Discussion on the Communication and Engagement Plan Update
and Planned Stakeholder Interviews
Recommended Action: Receive presentation on and discuss
Communication and Engagement Plan update and planned stakeholder
interviews.
b. Receive Reports from Directors and have Further Discussion on
Member Agency Contribution Commitments
Recommended Action: Receive reports from Directors and discuss Member
Agency contribution commitments.
c. Review of Proposal from Larry Walker Associates for
Preparation of the Groundwater Sustainability Plan First Annual
Report; Consideration of Recommendation to the Mendocino
County Board of Supervisors an Amendment to Board of
Supervisors Agreement Number 18-104, with Larry Walker and
Associates, to Prepare the Report; and Authorization of Budget
Adjustment, in the Amount of up to $15,000, to Reimburse
Mendocino County for the Cost of the Amendment to the
Agreement
Recommended Action: Recommend to the BOS an Amendment to BOS
Agreement No. 18-104, with LWA, to prepare the GSP first annual report
and authorize a budget adjustment, in the amount of up to $15,000, to
reimburse Mendocino County for the cost of the amendment to the
Agreement.
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
d. Discussion and Possible Direction to Staff on Cost Proposals
from Mendocino County Resource Conservation District for
Quarterly and Monthly Groundwater Elevation Monitoring
Recommended Action: Discuss and provide possible direction to staff on
cost proposals from MCRCD for Quarterly and Monthly Groundwater
Elevation Monitoring.
e. Discussion and Possible Direction to Staff Regarding the
Department of Water Resources’ Urban and Multibenefit
Drought Relief Grant Program
Recommended Action: Discuss the Urban and Multi-benefit Drought Relief
Grant Program and possibly direct staff to contract with a grant writer to
submit an application for funding to accomplish projects listed under the
Project and Management Actions section of the Groundwater Sustainability
Plan.
5. DIRECTOR REPORTS
6. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
The Board will receive public comments on items not appearing on the agenda and
within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Agency. The Board will not enter into
a detailed discussion or take any action on any items presented during public
comments. Such items may only be referred to staff for administrative action or
scheduled on a subsequent agenda for discussion. Persons wishing to speak on
specific agenda items should do so at the time specified for those items. The
presiding Chair shall limit public comments to three minutes.
7. ADJOURNMENT
The Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency complies with ADA requirements and upon
request, will attempt to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities by making meeting material
available in appropriate alternative formats (pursuant to Government Code Section 54953.2). Anyone
requiring reasonable accommodation to participate in the meeting should contact the Mendocino County
Department of Transportation by calling (707) 463-4363 at least 5 days prior to the meeting.
Please reference the Mendocino County website to obtain additional information for the Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency: http://www.mendocinocounty.org/uvbgsa
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 1 of 2
Item No.: 1.a
Date: 11/10/21
To: Board of Directors
Subject: Discussion and Possible Action Including Adoption of Resolution of the Ukiah Valley
Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency Finding that State or Local Officials
Continue to Recommend Measures to Promote Social Distancing in Connection with
Public Meetings
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 361, if a state of emergency remains active, or state or local
officials have imposed or recommended measures to promote social distancing, a
legislative body subject to the requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act (Cal. Gov. Code
§§ 54950 – 54963) shall make certain findings by majority vote to continue the ability to
meet remotely. Staff has prepared the attached draft resolution, containing the required
findings, for the Board’s consideration and approval.
Recommended Action:
Adopt resolution finding that State or Local Officials continue to recommend measures
to promote social distancing in connection with public meetings.
Background:
Beginning in March 2020, amid rising concern surrounding the spread of COVID-19
throughout communities in the state, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a series
of Executive Orders aimed at containing the novel coronavirus. These Executive Orders
(N-25-20, N-29-20, N-35-20) collectively modified certain requirements created by the
Ralph M. Brown Act (“the Brown Act”), the state’s local agency public meetings law.
Assembly Bill 361 provides local agencies with the ability to meet remotely during
proclaimed state emergencies under modified Brown Act requirements, similar in many
ways to the rules and procedures established by the Governor’s Executive Orders. AB
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 2 of 2
361’s provisions can only be used in the event that a gubernatorial state of emergency 1)
has been issued AND 2) remains active. It is not sufficient that county and/or city officials
have issued a local emergency declaration – the emergency declaration must be one that
is made pursuant to the California Emergency Services Act (CA GOVT § 8625).
This means that, during a state of emergency, under specified circumstances, AB 361
provides local agencies the flexibility to meet remotely during a proclaimed emergency
pursuant to modified Brown Act requirements.
Fiscal Summary:
None.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
1
RESOLUTION OF THE UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
FINDING THAT STATE OR LOCAL OFFICIALS CONTINUE TO RECOMMEND MEASURES
TO PROMOTE SOCIAL DISTANCING IN CONNECTION WITH PUBLIC MEETINGS
WHEREAS, all meetings of the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
are open and public, as required by the Ralph M. Brown Act (Cal. Gov. Code §§ 54950 – 54963),
so that any member of the public may attend, participate, and view the legislative bodies conduct
their business; and
WHEREAS, the Brown Act, Government Code section 54953(e), makes provisions for
remote teleconferencing participation in meetings by members of a legislative body, without
compliance with the requirements of Government Code section 54953(b)(3), subject to the
existence of certain conditions; and
WHEREAS, on March 4, 2020, Governor Newsom issued a Proclamation of a State of
Emergency declaring a state of emergency exists due to the outbreak of respiratory illness due
to a novel coronavirus (a disease now known as COVID-19), pursuant to the California
Emergency Services Act (Government Code section 8625) and that State of Emergency is still in
effect in the State of California; and
WHEREAS, as of the date of this Resolution, neither the Governor nor the state
Legislature have exercised their respective powers pursuant to Government Code section 8629
to lift the state of emergency either by proclamation or by concurrent resolution the state
Legislature; and
WHEREAS, the California Department of Industrial Relations has issued regulations
related to COVID-19 Prevention for employees and places of employment. Title 8 of the California
Code of Regulations, Section 3205(c)(5)(D) specifically recommends physical (social) distancing
as one of the measures to decrease the spread of COVID-19 based on the fact that particles
containing the virus can travel more than six feet, especially indoors; and
WHEREAS, the Mendocino County Public Health Officer continues to recommend
teleconferencing during public meetings of all legislative bodies to protect the community’s health
against the spread of COVID-19, based in part on the continued increased safety protection that
physical/social distancing provides as one means by which to reduce the risk of COVID-19
transmission; and
WHEREAS, the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency finds that state or
local officials have imposed or recommended measures to promote social distancing based on
the Mendocino County Public Health Officer recommendation and the California Department of
Industrial Relations’ issuance of regulations related to COVID-19 Prevention through Title 8 of the
California Code of Regulations, Section 3205(c)(5)(D); and
WHEREAS, as a consequence, the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability
Agency does hereby find that current conditions meet the circumstances set for in Government
Code section 54953(e)(3) to allow this legislative body to conduct its meetings by teleconferencing
without compliance with Government Code section 54953 (b)(3), pursuant to Section 54953(e),
and that such legislative body shall comply with the requirements to provide the public with access
to the meetings as prescribed by Government Code section 54953(e)(2) to ensure the public can
safely participate in and observe local government meetings.
2
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater
Sustainability Agency, as follows:
SECTION 1. RECITALS.
All of the above recitals are true and correct and are incorporated into this Resolution by this
reference.
SECTION 2. STATE OR LOCAL OFFICIALS CONTINUE TO RECOMMEND MEASURES TO
PROMOTE SOCIAL DISTANCING IN CONNECTION WITH PUBLIC MEETINGS.
The Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency finds that State or local officials
continue to recommend measures to promote social distancing pursuant to Government Code
section 54953(e)(3) to allow legislative bodies to use teleconferencing to hold public meetings in
accordance with Government Code section 54953(e)(2) to ensure members of the public have
continued access to safely observe and participate in local government meetings.
SECTION 3. REMOTE TELECONFERENCE MEETINGS.
The Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency is hereby authorized to take all
actions necessary to carry out the intent and purpose of this Resolution including, conducting
open and public meetings in accordance with Government Code section 54953(e)(2) and other
applicable provisions of the Brown Act.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
The foregoing Resolution introduced by____________, seconded by
___________, and carried this _____ of ________________ 2021, by the Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency, by the following vote:
AYES:
NO:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
WHEREUPON, the Chair declared said Resolution adopted and SO ORDERED.
Public Health Department
of Mendocino County
Healthy People, Healthy Communities Andy Coren, MD, County Health Officer
1
Recommendation Regarding Continued Remote Public Meetings of Governmental
Bodies
September 29, 2021
In light of the continued state of emergency related to COVID-19, as the County Health
Officer, I recommend that public bodies continue to meet remotely to the extent possible.
This recommendation is made due to the continued threat of COVID-19 to this community
with the ongoing surge in cases and deaths experienced since the Labor Day holiday, the
current county vaccination rate, and a concern for continued risk during the upcoming
holidays. Additionally, I make this recommendation based on the unique characteristics of
public governmental meetings (such as the increased mixing associated with bringing people
together from across the community, the need to enable those who are immunocompromised
or unvaccinated to be able to safely continue to fully participate in such governmental
meetings, and the challenges with fully ascertaining and ensuring compliance with
vaccination and other safety recommendations at such meetings), and the continued
increased safety protection that physical/social distancing provides as one means by which to
reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
Therefore, I strongly recommend teleconferencing through online meetings as this type of
meeting presents the lowest risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2, and allows for the
participation of the community, local agency staff, presenters, and local agency governing
bodies in a safe environment, with no risk of contagion.
I will continue to evaluate this recommendation on an ongoing basis, paying particular
attention to the pandemic stage of our community. I will communicate when there is no longer
such a recommendation with respect to meetings for public bodies.
____________________________ Dated: September 29, 2021
Dr. Howard A. Coren, M.D.,
Mendocino County Health Officer
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 1 of 1
Item No.: 3.a
Date: 11/10/21
To: Board of Directors
Subject: Approval of Minutes from the August 13th, 2021 Meeting
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
Approval of Minutes from August 13th, 2021 Meeting.
Recommended Action:
Approve the August 13th, 2021 Minutes.
Background:
The Agency convened on August 13th, 2021.
Fiscal Summary: No fiscal impact.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
Action Minutes – August 13, 2021
AGENDA ITEM NO. 1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL (1:46 P.M.)
Present: Directors Glen McGourty, Douglas Crane, Alfred White, and Zachary Robinson. Chair
McGourty presiding.
Absent: Director .
Mendocino County Staff Present: Howard Dashiell; Director of Transportation ; Amber Fisette,
Deputy Director of Transportation; James Linderman, Senior Environmental Compliance
Specialist;; Michael Harrigan, Environmental Compliance Specialist; Nicole French, Department
Analyst II.
Public Attendees: Barry Hill, Craig Moyle, Dominic Gutierrez, Elizabeth Salomone, Jared Walker,
Javier Silva, Ken Todd, Laurel Marcus, Alternate Director Mo Mulheren, Phil Williams, Ryan
Aston, Deborah Edelman, Devon Jones, Amir Mani, Tom Daughtry, Michael Webster, and Ross
LaRue.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was lead by: Director White.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 3. CONSENT ITEMS
Presenter: Chair McGourty.
Public Comment: None.
Board Action: Upon motion by Director Crane, seconded by Director White, and carried
unanimously; IT IS ORDERED that Consent Calendar items 4(a-b) are hereby approved as
follows:
a. Approval of Minutes from the July 8, 2021 Meeting;
b. Approval of the UVBGSA’s Emergency Drought Funding Request to the California
Department of Water Resources.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4A. DISCUSSION OF APPOINTMENT OF TRIBAL
STAKEHOLDER DIRECTOR
Presenters: Chair McGourty, Michael Harrigan, and Amber Fisette.
Public Comment: None.
Board Action: Upon motion by Director Robinson, seconded by Director Crane, and carried
unanimously; IT IS ORDERED that Eddie Nevarez is appointed as Tribal Stakeholder Director of
the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
DIRECTOR NEVAREZ ABSENT AT 1:51 PM
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4B. CONFIRM THE UPPER RUSSIAN RIVER WATER AGENCY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ APPOINTMENT OF MEMBER DIRECTOR ROSS LARUE TO
THE UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER AGENCY BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Presenter: Chair McGourty.
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
Public Comment: None.
Board Action: Upon motion by Director White, seconded by Director Robinson, and carried (4/1,
with Director Nevarez absent); IT IS ORDERED that Ross LaRue is appointed as Upper Russian
River Water Agency Director of the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
DIRECTOR LARUE PRESENT AT 1:52 PM
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4C. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ADOPTION OF
RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE UKIAH VALLEY GROUNDWATER
SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY’S FINANCIAL AD-HOC COMMITTEE MEETING
REGARDING FUNDING FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GROUNDWATER
SUSTAINABILITY PLAN AND THE ANNUAL OPERATING COSTS
Presenters: Director Robinson, Amber Fisette, Amir Mani, and Ryan Aston.
Public Comment: Devon Jones, Laurel Marcus, Deborah Edelman, and Elizabeth Salomone.
By Order of the Chair: Amber Fisette is directed to prepare a letter for members of the board of
directors to take to their respective boards which summarizes the recommendations of the ad hoc
committee.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4D. DISCUSSION ON THE UKIAH VALLEY BASIN
GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY’S ACTIVITY AND ROLE DURING THE
5 YEAR MONITORING PERIOD
Presenters: Chair McGourty, Dominic Gutierrez, and Amber Fisette.
Public Comment: Elizabeth Salomone, Devon Jones, Michael Webster, Deborah Edelman, and
Laurel Marcus.
General Consensus of the Board: Regular, but not frequent, meetings will be adequate for
addressing the future needs of the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency, as the
phase of work requiring more meetings is ending; the next phase of work will focus on identifying
stable funding and working with partner organizations who have research interests.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4E. DISCUSSION AND APPROVAL OF BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE ADDITIONAL GROUNDWATER MONITORING AND
AUTHORIZATION FOR STAFF TO EXPEND FUNDS FOR SAID MONITORING, WITH
FUNDING FROM ADDITIONAL MEMBER CONTRIBUTIONS
Presenters: Amber Fisette, Amir Mani, and Laurel Marcus.
Public Comment: Deborah Edelman and Elizabeth Salomone.
Board Action: Upon motion by Director Crane, seconded by Director White, and carried (4/2,
with Director Nevarez absent and Director LaRue unresponsive due to technology issues); IT IS
ORDERED that the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency Board of Directors
hereby approves budget adjustment for immediate additional groundwater monitoring and
authorize staff to expend funds up to but not exceeding $16,000 for said monitoring, subject to
approval of member agencies for additional member contribution.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 5. DIRECTORS REPORTS
Presenters: Board of Directors.
Public Comment: Amir Mani.
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
Board Action: No action taken.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 6. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE
AGENDA
Presenter: Chair McGourty.
Public Comment: Elizabeth Salomone, Dominic Gutierrez.
Board Action: No action taken.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 7. ADJOURNMENT (4:01 P.M.)
________________________________
Glenn McGourty, Chair
Attest: Secretary
________________________________
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 1 of 1
Item No.: 3.b
Date: 11/10/21
To: Board of Directors
Subject: Approval of Minutes from the October 21st, 2021 Meeting
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
Approval of Minutes from October 21st, 2021 Meeting.
Recommended Action:
Approve the October 21st, 2021 Minutes.
Background:
The Agency convened on October 21st, 2021.
Fiscal Summary: No fiscal impact.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY
AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
Action Minutes – October 21, 2021
AGENDA ITEM NO. 1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL (1:31 P.M.)
Present: Directors Glen McGourty, Alfred White, Ross LaRue, and Zachary Robinson. Chair
McGourty presiding.
Absent: Director Douglas Crane and Director Eddie Nevarez.
Mendocino County Staff Present: Howard Dashiell, Director of Transportation ; Amber Fisette,
Deputy Director of Transportation; James Linderman, Senior Environmental Compliance
Specialist; Michael Harrigan, Environmental Compliance Specialist; and Nicole French,
Department Analyst II.
Public Attendees: Devon Jones, Laura Foglia, M. Katy Janes, Marisa Perez-Reyes, Michael
Webster, Paul Z., Alternate Director Mo Mulheren, Amir Mani, Jared Walker, Sean White, Deborah
Edelman, and Elizabeth Salomone.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was lead by: Chair McGourty.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 3. CONSENT ITEMS
Presenter: Chair McGourty.
Public Comment: Elizabeth Salomone.
Board Action: Upon motion by Director White, seconded by Director Robinson, and carried
unanimously (4/2, with Directors Crane and Nevarez absent); IT IS ORDERED that Consent
Calendar item 4(a) is hereby approved as follows:
a. Authorization to Staff to Draft Letters of Support on behalf of Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Basin Sustainability Agency for Grant Proposals which Promote Drought
Relief or Water Resiliency in the Ukiah Valley Basin.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4A. AUTHORIZE STAFF TO PREPARE AND ISSUE A REQUEST
FOR PROPOSALS FOR A CONSULTANT TO PERFORM ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES FOR
THE UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
Presenter: Amber Fisette.
Public Comment: Elizabeth Salomone.
Board Action: Upon motion by Director LaRue, seconded by Director Robinson, and carried
unanimously (4/2, with Directors Crane and Nevarez absent); IT IS ORDERED that Authorize staff
to prepare and issue a Request for Proposals for a consultant to perform administrative duties for
the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4B. RECEIVE REPORTS FROM DIRECTORS AND HAVE
FURTHER DISCUSSION ON MEMBER AGENCY CONTRIBUTION COMMITMENTS
AND FUNDING MECHANISMS
Presenters: Amber Fisette, Director White, and Director LaRue.
Public Comment: Elizabeth Salomone, Jared Walker, and Sean White
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY
AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
General Consensus of the Board: Mendocino County staff is directed to send invoices to member
agencies.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4C. DIRECT STAFF TO REQUEST A PROPOSAL FROM LARRY
WALKER AND ASSOCIATES FOR PREPARATION OF THE FIRST ANNUAL REPORT
AND RETURN TO THE BOARD AT A FUTURE MEETING FOR THE BOARD TO
CONSIDER RECOMMENDING TO THE MENDOCINO COUNTY BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING AGREEMENT WITH LARRY
WALKER AND ASSOCIATES TO PREPARE THE REPORT
Presenter: Amber Fisette.
Public Comment: Laura Foglia.
Board Action: Upon motion by Director White, seconded by Director LaRue, and carried
unanimously (4/2, with Directors Crane and Nevarez absent); IT IS ORDERED that staff is directed
to request a proposal from Larry Walker and Associates (LWA) for preparation of the first annual
report and return to the Board at a future meeting for the Board to consider recommending to BOS
an amendment to the existing Agreement with LWA to prepare the report.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4D. AUTHORIZATION OF BUDGET ADJUSTMENT, IN THE
AMOUNT OF $13,000, TO REIMBURSE MENDOCINO COUNTY FOR SPRING 2022
GROUNDWATER MONITORING AND DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE DIRECTION
REGARDING CONTRACTING AN ENTITY TO CONDUCT GROUNDWATER
MONITORING BEGINNING JULY 2022
Presenters: Amber Fisette and Deborah Edelman.
Public Comment: Elizabeth Salomone.
Board Action: Upon motion by Director LaRue, seconded by Director Robinson, and carried
unanimously (4/2, with Directors Crane and Nevarez absent); IT IS ORDERED that authorization
of a budget adjustment, in the amount of $13,000, to Reimburse Mendocino County for Spring
2022 Groundwater Monitoring is hereby approved.
General Consensus of the Board: Direct Mendocino County Resource Conservation district staff to
provide quotes for groundwater monitoring regiments.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4E. PRESENTATION FROM LARRY WALKER ASSOCIATES ON
THE INITIAL REVIEW OF THE PUBLIC COMMENTS ON THE UKIAH VALLEY BASIN
GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY
PLAN
Presenters: Laura Foglia and Amir Mani.
Public Comment: None.
Board Action: No action taken.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4F. DISCUSSION AND APPOINTMENT OF A SECRETARY OF THE
UKIAH VALLEY GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
Presenter: Amber Fisette.
Public Comment: Elizabeth Salomone.
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY
AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
Board Action: Upon motion by Director Robinson, seconded by Director LaRue, and carried
unanimously (4/2, with Directors Crane and Nevarez absent); IT IS ORDERED that Director White
is hereby appointed as Secretary of the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 5. DIRECTORS REPORTS
Presenters: Chair McGourty, Director Robinson.
Public Comment: Elizabeth Salomone.
Board Action: No action taken.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 6. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE
AGENDA
Presenter: Amber Fisette.
Public Comment: Elizabeth Salomone and Laura Foglia.
Board Action: No action taken.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 7. ADJOURNMENT (3:02 P.M.)
________________________________
Glenn McGourty, Chair
Attest: Secretary
________________________________
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 1 of 2
Item No.: 4.a
Date: 11/10/21
To: Board of Directors
Subject: Presentation from Stantec Consulting Services, Inc., and Discussion on the
Communication and Engagement Plan Update and Planned Stakeholder Interviews
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
Stantec Consulting Services Inc. is providing Facilitation Support Services (FSS) professional
services in support of the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA).
Key activities supported by Stantec Consulting Services Inc. include updating the UVBGSA
Communication and Engagement (C&E) Plan, last updated in February 2021. Anticipated focus
areas for update of the C&E Plan include outreach actions completed to date and developing
post-Groundwater Sustainability Plan adoption outreach via stakeholder input. The UVBGSA
Board of Directors will receive a presentation from Stantec Consulting Services Inc. and have
discussion on the C&E Plan update and planned stakeholder interviews.
Recommended Action:
Receive presentation on and discuss Communication and Engagement Plan update and planned
stakeholder interviews.
Background:
Under the requirements of SGMA, GSAs must consider interests of all beneficial uses and users
of groundwater. As a result, the GSP development needs to consider effects to other stakeholder
groups in or around the groundwater basin with overlapping interests. These interests include,
but are not limited to, holders of overlying groundwater rights (including agriculture users and
domestic well owners), public water systems, local land use planning agencies, environmental
users, surface water users, federal government, California Native American tribes, and
disadvantaged communities (Water Code 10723.2). The Department of Water Resources
(DWR) is offering Facilitation Support Services (FSS) to assist Groundwater Sustainability
Agencies (GSAs) and local water management groups foster discussions that contribute towards
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 2 of 2
implementing the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). Under contract with
DWR, Stantec Consulting Services, Inc., provides FSS professional services to deliver services to
support the SGMA Program in the Ukiah Valley Basin. Key activities include conduct of
meetings/workshops to assist in adoption and implementation of the UVBGSA’s Groundwater
Sustainability Plan (GSP); an update to the UVBGSA Communication and Engagement Plan
consistent with the basin’s adopted GSP; and GSP adoption support.
Fiscal Summary:
None.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 1 of 2
Item No.: 4.b
Date: 11/10/21
To: Board of Directors
Subject: Receive Reports from Directors and have Further Discussion on Member Agency
Contribution Commitments
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
The Board will receive reports from Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
(UVBGSA) member Directors and have further discussion on member agency contribution
commitments and funding mechanisms.
Recommended Action:
Receive reports from Directors and discuss Member Agency contribution commitments.
Background:
On August 13, 2021, the UVBGSA Board of Directors met to discuss, among other items, funding
for the implementation of the Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) and ongoing
administrative costs of the UVBGSA. Following a presentation by the Financial Ad Hoc
Committee, the Board adopted the Committee’s recommendations including funding by
member contributions in the immediate future, subject to commitment of funds by the
respective Boards and Councils, until such a time that fees can be imposed, and conducting a fee
study in order to implement a regulatory fee for ongoing funding. The estimated average annual
costs for GSP implementation and UVBGSA administration, including funding for the fee study,
are $275,000, or $68,750 for each of the four Member Agencies. The UVBGSA sent out a
funding request letter, for each member Director to present to their respective governing boards,
requesting additional member contributions in the annual amount of $68,750, beginning in
Fiscal Year 2021/22, until such a time that a regulatory fee can be implemented for ongoing
funding of the UVBGSA. On September 28, 2021 the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors
approved the annual allocation of funds in the amount of $68,750 to the UVBGSA for agency
administration and implementation of the GSP. On October 21, 2021, the UVBGSA Board of
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 2 of 2
Directors met to discuss, among other items, the status of Member Agency annual contributions.
At the board’s direction, UVBGSA staff sent out invoices for Member Agency contributions for
Fiscal Year 2021/2022 on October 26, 2021, due on November 30, 2021.
Fiscal Summary:
None.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 1 of 2
Item No.: 4.c
Date: 11/10/21
To: Board of Directors
Subject: Review of Proposal from Larry Walker Associates for Preparation of the
Groundwater Sustainability Plan First Annual Report; Consideration of
Recommendation to the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors an Amendment to
Board of Supervisors Agreement Number 18-104, with Larry Walker and Associates,
to Prepare the Report; and Authorization of Budget Adjustment, in the Amount of
up to $15,000, to Reimburse Mendocino County for the Cost of the Amendment to
the Agreement
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
The first annual report on implementation of the Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) is due
to the California Department of Water Resources on April 1, 2022. The Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA) Board of Directors will receive and review a
proposal from Larry Walker Associates (LWA) for preparation of the first annual report. Once
that proposal is reviewed, the Board will consider recommending to the Mendocino County
Board of Supervisors (BOS) an amendment to the existing Agreement with LWA to include
preparation of the GSP first annual report and authorization of budget adjustment, in the
amount of $15,000, to reimburse Mendocino County for the cost of the amendment to the
Agreement. The additional scope of work in the proposal from LWA consists of three primary
tasks: 1) project management and coordination, 2) data collection and understanding current
conditions, and 3) annual report documentation preparation.
Recommended Action:
Recommend to the BOS an Amendment to BOS Agreement No. 18-104, with LWA, to prepare
the GSP first annual report and authorize a budget adjustment, in the amount of up to $15,000,
to reimburse Mendocino County for the cost of the amendment to the Agreement.
Background:
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 2 of 2
The UVBGSA is required to submit an annual report for the Ukiah Valley Basin (Basin) to the
California Department of Water Resources (DWR) by April 1st of each year following the
adoption of its GSP under the requirements of Water Code §10733.6. This first annual report
will cover Water Year 2021. The objective of annual reports is to demonstrate to DWR during
the implementation phase that progress is being made towards meeting intermediate milestones
that are defined in the GSP, which will lead to meeting the sustainability goals for the Basin. The
content requirements of the annual report are outlined in §356.2 of the GSP Regulations. On
June 14, 2018, the UVBGSA Board of Directors recommended the approval of an agreement
with LWA for the development of the UVBGSA Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP). On July
10, 2018, the BOS entered into BOS Agreement No. 18-104 with LWA, in the amount of
$736,420, for the term through December 31, 2021. On June 23, 2020 the BOS amended the
Agreement with LWA, extending the agreement term through June 30, 2022, and increasing the
amount of the Agreement from $736,420 to $1,773,560. On October 21, 2021, the UVBGSA
Board of Directors directed staff to request a proposal from LWA for preparation of the first
annual report and return to the Board at a future meeting for the Board to consider
recommending to the BOS an amendment to the existing Agreement with LWA to prepare the
report.
Fiscal Summary:
Approval of the recommended action will authorize an increase in budgeted expenses of up to
$15,000 for Fiscal Year 2021-22.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
Page 1 of 4
November 3, 2021
Ms. Amber Fisette
Land Improvement Division
Solid Waste & Water Agency
Mendocino County Department of Transportation
340 Lake Mendocino Drive
Ukiah, CA 95482
Submitted via email to fisettea@mendocinocounty.org
Subject: Proposed Scope of Services – Assistance with Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency’s GSP Annual Report
Dear Ms. Fisette:
As requested, Larry Walker Associates (LWA) is submitting the following proposal to
assist Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA) to prepare
Ukiah Valley Basin’s first annual report for their Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP).
UVBGSA is required to submit an annual report for the Ukiah Valley Basin (Basin) to the
California Department of Water Resources (DWR) by April 1st of each year following the
adoption of its GSP under the requirements of Water Code §10733.6. This first annual
report will cover Water Year 2021. The objective of annual reports is to demonstrate to
DWR during the implementation phase that progress is being made towards meeting
intermediate milestones that are defined in the GSP, which will lead to meeting the
sustainability goals for the Basin. The content requirements of the annual report are
outlined in §356.2 of the GSP Regulations.
The SOW consists of three primary tasks: 1) project management and coordination, 2)
data collection and understanding current conditions, and 3) annual report
documentation preparation.
Scope of Work
LWA has prepared the following scope of work to assist with the development of Ukiah
Valley Basin’s Annual Report. The work will be performed according to the tasks
described below.
Task 1. Project Management and Coordination
The LWA Project Manager (PM) will provide overall management and coordination for
task assignments to ensure that the work meets overall project objectives and is
completed on schedule and within budget. Under this task, the LWA PM will coordinate
with UVBGSA staff regarding project status and budget.
1480 Drew Avenue, Suite 100
Davis, CA 95618 www.lwa.com 530.753.6400
530.753.7030 fax
Page 2 of 4
Task 2. Data Collection and Understanding Current Conditions
This task involves compiling the necessary information and datasets to include in the
annual report. The annual report will include the following information, per §356.2 of the
GSP Regulations:
1. Groundwater contours maps depicting, at minimum, the seasonal high and low
groundwater conditions,
2. Hydrographs of groundwater elevations and water year type using historical data
to the extent possible going back to January 1, 2015, through the latest water
year,
3. Estimates of groundwater extraction including map depicting where the
groundwater was pumped,
4. Summary of available surface water supplies and total water use, and
5. Change in groundwater storage including spatial and graphical representations.
LWA will prepare a data request and UVBGSA staff will provide the groundwater
elevation, pumping and water use data along with other data request ed by LWA.
Task 3. Annual Report Documentation Preparation
Upon completion of Task 2, LWA will develop UVBGSA’s Water Year 2021 Annual
Report. This first annual report will include an executive summary (with location map), a
description of basin conditions through text, hydrographs, contour maps, estimation of
change in groundwater storage, estimate of available surface water supplies, and
distribution of groundwater extraction across the Basin. Water Year 20 21 data will be
compared against sustainable management criteria as a measure of the Basin’s
progress towards the sustainability goal that must be reached by the end of Water Year
2042. LWA will provide a draft version of the report to UVBGSA to review and will
prepare a final version based on UVBGSA comments.
Deliverable: Draft and Final versions of Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability
Agency – Water Year 2021 GSP Annual Report
Budget and Schedule
The report will be prepared for a cost not to exceed $15,000 on a time and materials
basis according to our standard billing rates which are attached. An estimated cost
breakdown by task is shown below. LWA reserves the right to move budget between
tasks but will not exceed the total amount without prior authorization.
Estimated Costs for Assistance
Task Description Labor Direct
Costs Total
Page 3 of 4
1 Project Management and
Coordination $2,000 $0 $2,000
2 Data Collection and Understanding
Current Conditions $7,000 $0 $7,000
3 Annual Report Documentation
Preparation $6,000 $0 $6,000
Total $15,000 $0 $15,000
LWA will work with UVBGSA staff to develop a schedule to ensure that the Annual
Report will be ready for submittal to DWR by April 1, 2022.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide this proposal for services. Please feel free to
contact me at LauraF@lwa.com or (530) 753-6400 (ext. 240) if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Laura Foglia
Associate
Page 4 of 4
REIMBURSABLE COSTS
Travel:
Local mileage Current IRS rate
Transportation Actual expense
Auto rental Actual expense
Fares Actual expense
Room Actual expense
Subsistence (1) $55 per day
Breakfast
$13.00
Lunch
$14.00
Dinner
$23.00
Incidentals $5.00
Report Reproduction and Copying:
Per color copy, in-house $0.89
The rate for each meal as follows: (1)
Actual expense
Per black and white copy, in-house $0.08
Per binding, in-house $1.95
Special Postage and Express Mail:
Actual expense
Other Direct Costs:
Actual Expense
Daily Equipment Rental Rates:
Single parameter meters & equipment $30.00
Digital flow meter $60.00
Multi-parameter field meters & sondes $100.00
Dye/tracer mapping or residence time $200.00
Multi-parameter continuous remote sensing $40.00
Subcontractors:
Actual Expense plus 10% fee
Note: (1) Charged when overnight lodging is required.
PERSONNEL TITLE RATE
$/Hour
Project Staff:
Melanie Andreacchi Administrative Assistant $ 96
Nicole Collins Administrative Assistant $ 96
Kim Turner Administrative Assistant $ 96
Tina VanCarpels Contract Coordinator $133
John Walker AR/AP Manager $133
Hayleigh Sawdaye Graphic Designer $123
Kathryn Walker Senior Graphic Designer $160
Chloe Celniker Project Scientist I-C $128
Sophie McFadin Project Engineer I-C $128
Adriana Stovall Project Scientist I-C $128
Zaida Cholico Project Scientist I-B $155
Nubia Donikian Project Engineer I-B $155
Hilary Pierce Project Scientist I-B $155
Katrina Arredondo Project Scientist I-A $180
Jenny Bayley Project Engineer I-A $180
Sebastian Bognar Project Scientist I-A $180
Kelsey McNeill Project Engineer I-A $180
Ryan Parks Project Scientist I-A $180
Jamie Yin Project Scientist I-A $180
Olin Applegate Project Scientist II-B $192
Ryan Fulton Project Scientist II-B $192
Jeff Walker Engineer $192
Alina Constantinescu Project Engineer II-A $215
Airy Krich-Brinton Project Engineer II-A $215
Adriel Leon Project Scientist II-A $215
Danielle Moss Project Engineer II-A $215
Steve Maricle Project Engineer II-A $215
Mike Marson Project Scientist II-A $215
Rich Pauloo Project Scientist II-A $215
Elizabeth Yin Project Scientist II-A $215
Senior Staff:
Bryant Alvarado Senior Engineer $249
Diana Engle Senior Scientist $249
Jamie Habben Senior Scientist $249
Gorman Lau Senior Engineer $249
Amir Mani Senior Engineer $249
Mitch Mysliwiec Senior Engineer $249
Amy Storm Senior Scientist $249
Hope M. Taylor Senior Engineer $249
Rachel Warren Senior Engineer $249
Associate:
Denise Conners Associate Engineer $279
Betsy Elzufon Associate Engineer $279
Laura Foglia Associate Engineer $279
Paul Hartman Associate Scientist $279
Sandy Mathews Associate Scientist $279
Mike Trouchon Associate Scientist $279
Principal:
Karen Ashby Vice President $304
Chris Minton Vice President $304
Brian Laurenson Executive Vice President $317
Tom Grovhoug Senior Executive $333
Ashli Cooper Desai President $333
L A RRY WA L K E R A S S O C I A TES RAT E S C H E DUL E
EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2021 – JUNE 30, 2022
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 1 of 2
Item No.: 4.d
Date: 11/10/21
To: Board of Directors
Subject: Discussion and Possible Direction to Staff on Cost Proposals from Mendocino
County Resource Conservation District for Quarterly and Monthly Groundwater
Elevation Monitoring
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) requires the Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA) to begin implementation of the Groundwater
Sustainability Plan (GSP) immediately following its submittal to the California Department of
Water Resources in January 2022. The Board of Directors will discuss and provide possible
direction to staff on the cost proposals from the Mendocino County Resource Conservation
District (MCRCD) for both quarterly and monthly groundwater elevation monitoring for Fiscal
Year (FY) 2022/23.
Recommended Action:
Discuss and provide possible direction to staff on cost proposals from MCRCD for Quarterly and
Monthly Groundwater Elevation Monitoring.
Background:
On June 7, 2021, the County of Mendocino entered into an agreement (DOT Agreement No.
210039) with the Mendocino County Resource Conservation District (MCRCD), which includes
approximately $13,000 for migration of the UVBGSA monitoring wells from the California
Statewide Groundwater Elevation Monitoring (CASGEM) portal to the SGMA portal’s
Monitoring Network Module, and for Spring 2022 groundwater monitoring required by the
UVBGSA’s GSP. At the UVBGSA Board of Directors Meeting on October 21, 2021, the Board
requested MCRCD staff provide cost proposals for both quarterly and monthly groundwater
elevation monitoring for FY 2022/23.
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 2 of 2
Fiscal Summary:
Annual cost of $17,641 for quarterly groundwater elevation monitoring of 16 wells; annual cost
of $37,378 for monthly groundwater elevation monitoring of 16 wells. Annual cost of $26,397
for quarterly groundwater elevation monitoring of 26 wells; annual cost of $57,846 for monthly
groundwater elevation monitoring of 26 wells.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
Quantity Unit Type Rate Amt
Outreach to well owners 16 hours 100.00$ 1,600.00$
Research wells/Create maps/Update records 16 hours 100.00$ 1,600.00$
Meetings and trainings 48 hours 100.00$ 4,800.00$
Monitoring (4x: 16 wells)42 hours 100.00$ 4,200.00$
Reporting and record-keeping 32 hours 100.00$ 3,200.00$
Mileage 100 miles 0.560$ 56.00$
Misc - field supplies 1 lump sum 25.00$ 25.00$
Bookkeeping 24 hours 90.00$ 2,160.00$
GSA Monitoring: 16 Wells Quarterly 17,641.00$
Quantity Unit Type Rate Amt
Outreach to well owners 48 hours 100.00$ 4,800.00$
Research wells/Create maps/Update records 32 hours 100.00$ 3,200.00$
Meetings and trainings 48 hours 100.00$ 4,800.00$
Monitoring (12x: 16 wells)126 hours 100.00$ 12,600.00$
Reporting and record-keeping 96 hours 100.00$ 9,600.00$
Mileage 300 miles 0.560$ 168.00$
Misc - field supplies 1 lump sum 50.00$ 50.00$
Bookkeeping 24 hours 90.00$ 2,160.00$
GSA Monitoring: 16 Wells Monthly 37,378.00$
GSA Groundwater Elevation Monitoring Budgets: Quarterly vs Monthly for 16 Wells
Monthly Well Monitoring for 16 CASGEM wells
Quarterly Well Monitoring for 16 CASGEM wells
Quantity Unit Type Rate Amt
Outreach to well owners 26 hours 100.00$ 2,600.00$
Research wells/Create maps/Update records 26 hours 100.00$ 2,600.00$
Meetings and trainings 52 hours 100.00$ 5,200.00$
Monitoring (4x: 26 wells)65 hours 100.00$ 6,500.00$
Reporting and record-keeping 52 hours 100.00$ 5,200.00$
Equipment maintenance fund for LWA 1 lump sum 2,000.00$ 2,000.00$
Mileage 200 miles 0.560$ 112.00$
Misc - field supplies 1 lump sum 25.00$ 25.00$
Bookkeeping 24 hours 90.00$ 2,160.00$
GSA Monitoring: 26 Wells Quarterly 26,397.00$
Quantity Unit Type Rate Amt
Outreach to well owners 78 hours 100.00$ 7,800.00$
Research wells/Create maps/Update records 52 hours 100.00$ 5,200.00$
Meetings and trainings 52 hours 100.00$ 5,200.00$
Monitoring (12x: 26 wells)195 hours 100.00$ 19,500.00$
Reporting and record-keeping 156 hours 100.00$ 15,600.00$
Equipment maintenance fund for LWA 1 lump sum 2,000.00$ 2,000.00$
Mileage 600 miles 0.560$ 336.00$
Misc - field supplies 1 lump sum 50.00$ 50.00$
Bookkeeping 24 hours 90.00$ 2,160.00$
GSA Monitoring: 26 Wells Monthly 57,846.00$
GSA Groundwater Elevation Monitoring Budgets: Quarterly vs Monthly for 26 Wells
Quarterly Well Monitoring for 16 CASGEM wells plus 10 instrumented wells
Monthly Well Monitoring for 16 CASGEM wells plus 10 instrumented wells
NOTES:
Task 1: Quarterly Well Monitoring for the Ukiah Valley Basin (16 CASGEM wells plus 10 instrumented wells)
1 The 12x/year budgets are less than 3 times the 4x/year costs due to some economies of scale
2 The budgets for 26 wells include funds for hiring LWA for equipment maintenance.
3 New sounding tape is recommended in 2024 at a cost of approx. $1000.
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 1 of 2
Item No.: 4.e
Date: 11/10/21
To: Board of Directors
Subject: Discussion and Possible Direction to Staff Regarding the Department of Water
Resources’ Urban and Multibenefit Drought Relief Grant Program
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) Urban and Multi-benefit Drought Relief
Grant Program is currently accepting grant proposals for projects which address drought
impacts through implementation of projects with multiple benefits. The Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA) Board of Directors will discuss the possibility
contracting with a grant writer to submit an application for grant funding to accomplish projects
listed under the Project and Management Actions section of the Groundwater Sustainability
Plan. Applications received between November 20 and December 17, 2021, will be considered in
the second phase of awards and subsequent phases will be announced at a later date.
Recommended Action:
Discuss the Urban and Multi-benefit Drought Relief Grant Program and possibly direct staff to
contract with a grant writer to submit an application for funding to accomplish projects listed
under the Project and Management Actions section of the Groundwater Sustainability Plan.
Background:
The Budget Act of 2021 (Stats. 2021, ch. 69, § 112) for the State of California allocated $300
million to DWR to deliver grants for interim and immediate drought relief to urban
communities and for multibenefit projects. DWR is combining $200 million of the funding into
one Urban and Multibenefit Drought Relief Program and will match applications to the
appropriate funding source based on eligibility. DWR will utilize approximately 5% of the
funding for administrative costs of the Program. Eligible applicants include: public agencies,
public utilities, special districts, colleges and universities, mutual water companies, non-profit
organizations, regional water management groups, California Native American Tribes. The
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Page 2 of 2
funds are intended for communities, including Tribes, facing the loss or contamination of their
water supplies due to the drought; to address immediate drought impacts on human health and
safety; and to protect fish and wildlife resources plus other public benefits, such as ecosystem
improvements. Eligible Project Types include: hauled water, installation of temporary
community water tanks, bottled water, water vending machines, energy water interties, new
wells or rehabilitation of existing wells, construction or installation of permanent connection to
adjacent water systems, recycled water projects that support immediate relief to potable water
supplies, fish and wildlife protection and rehabilitation, and drought resiliency planning.
Fiscal Summary:
None.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________