Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-04-26 Board Meeting Minutes 1 MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS OF THE OTAY WATER DISTRICT AND OTAY WATER DISTRICT FINANCING AUTHORITY March 4, 2026 The meeting was called to order by Vice President Robak at 3:32 p.m. 1. ROLL CALL Directors Present: Robak, Gonzalez, Croucher, and Lopez Directors Absent: Rivera Staff Present: General Manager, Jose Martinez; General Counsel, Dan Shinoff; Chief Financial Officer, Joe Beachem; Chief of Administrative Services, Kevin Koeppen; Engineering Manager, Kevin Cameron; Chief of Operations, Andrew Jackson; and District Secretary, Jenny Diaz. Vice President Robak indicated that formal Board action was required to approve the remote attendance of Director Croucher due to just cause. A motion to approve the remote attendance of Director Croucher was made by Director Lopez, seconded by Director Gonzalez, and carried with the following vote: Ayes: Directors Robak, Gonzalez, and Lopez Noes: None Abstain: None Absent: Director Rivera 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA A motion to approve the agenda was made by Director Lopez, seconded by Director Gonzalez, and carried with the following vote: Ayes: Directors Robak, Gonzalez, Croucher, and Lopez Noes: None Abstain: None Absent: Director Rivera 4. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR BOARD MEETING OF FEBRUARY 4, 2026 2 A motion to approve the minutes of the regular board meeting of February 4, 2026, was made by Director Croucher, seconded by Director Gonzalez, and carried with the following vote: Ayes: Directors Robak, Gonzalez, Croucher, and Lopez Noes: None Abstain: None Absent: Director Rivera 5. WATER CONSERVATION GARDEN UPDATE Ms. Lauren Magnuson, Executive Director for the Water Conservation Garden, began by congratulating the District on its nomination for an environmental stewardship award. Ms. Magnuson also shared various updates including: - Attending a tour of the Levy Water Treatment Plant, operated by the Helix Water District, stating she learned a lot. - New partnership formed with gardener Nan Sterman, who will hold a workshop on March 14, 2026. - The Garden hosted a Veterans East County Alliance (VECA) luncheon and introduced the Garden to many new visitors. - Volunteer Program Focus: A recent recruitment drive added 14 new volunteers. As of January 2026, volunteers have contributed 6,992 hours. Volunteers also attended a tour of Cuyamaca College’s Center for Water Studies, which focuses on ensuring the community knows about the water industry and the jobs available. - Upcoming Events: “TomatoMania” is scheduled for March 6-7, 2026, with Otay staffing a booth on Friday; the “Spring Garden & Butterfly Festival,” a major fundraiser, is set for May 2, 2026, and is expected to draw over 4,000 people. Ms. Magnuson indicated that year to date, 1,679 Otay Water District ratepayers have visited the Garden. - Community Engagement & Upgrades: School field trips are fully booked for the year. Exhibit upgrades include a renovated Fire Wise Exhibit, which has not been updated in about 20 years; a new DIY Rain Barrel exhibit, and a future “Nifty 50” exhibit. - Future Goals: Ms. Magnuson’s primary long-term goal is to upgrade the amphitheater to generate revenue and host community events. Director Croucher inquired about Dr. Richard Wright’s recent $5,000 sponsorship and whether he was given any recognition with a plaque or something similar. Ms. Magnuson stated that signs would be posted at the Garden within the next two weeks to acknowledge their large donors. One in particular is being created for Mr. Wright, which upon walking into the Garden, will indicate “The Wright Way”. 3 Regarding the upgrade of the Firewise exhibit, Director Croucher inquired whether the Garden had reached out to CalFire regarding a potential sponsorship. Ms. Magnuson indicated that they have not done so to date. She also noted that Helix Water recently met with several fire chiefs from the Heartland and Lakeside Fire Districts, who are valuable resources. Ms. Magnuson added that once plantings and signage are complete, they will reach out to the community for potential sponsorships. Director Croucher requested that Ms. Magnuson contact him regarding the CalFire sponsorship for the Fire Wise garden, as they were one of the original sponsors. Director Croucher inquired about when volunteers were last recognized and thanked. Ms. Magnuson stated that the Garden hosts an annual brunch in June and, once the date is finalized, she will invite the Directors should they wish to thank the volunteers. She also noted that a volunteer documentary is currently in progress and that the Directors will be invited as well. Regarding the TomatoMania event, Director Croucher inquired why the District would not staff a booth on both Friday and Saturday. General Manager Martinez indicated that he would look into the matter and report back. Director Croucher emphasized the importance of attending and staffing such events. Finally, Director Croucher inquired whether Garden volunteers are provided with attire to indicate they are on duty. Ms. Magnuson stated that volunteers are provided with aprons, team T-shirts, volunteer hour pins, and similar items. She also noted that some volunteers opt out and instead request new pots, which are donated by the community. Director Gonzalez asked Ms. Magnuson about her dream for the Garden. Ms. Magnuson highlighted the value of the Garden’s space, noting her interest in utilizing the amphitheater for speaking engagements and other events. Vice President Robak praised the work, reminisced about the Fire Wise garden’s creation, and encouraged continued partnership with the Heritage of the Americas Museum. In general, the Directors expressed strong support for Ms. Magnuson’s work and leadership. 6. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION – OPPORTUNITY FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO SPEAK TO THE BOARD ON ANY SUBJECT MATTER WITHIN THE BOARD'S JURISDICTION BUT NOT AN ITEM ON TODAY'S AGENDA Vice President Robak opened the floor for public participation on any subject matter within the board’s jurisdiction. There were no requests to speak from virtual attendees or from anyone present in the Board room. 4 CONSENT ITEMS 7. ITEMS TO BE ACTED UPON WITHOUT DISCUSSION, UNLESS A REQUEST IS MADE BY A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OR THE PUBLIC TO DISCUSS A PARTICULAR ITEM: The Directors indicated they had no comments and did not wish to pull any items for discussion. A motion to approve the following consent calendar items was made by Director Gonzalez, seconded by Director Lopez, and carried with the following vote: Ayes: Directors Robak, Gonzalez, Croucher, and Lopez Noes: None Abstain: None Absent: Director Rivera a) AWARD CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO ROLCOM, INC. AND AUTHORIZE THE GENERAL MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT FOR THE OPERATIONS BUILDING SITE LOCATON 4: ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $265,642 b) ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 4470 DESIGNATING SPECIFIC STAFF AS AUTHORIZED AGENTS TO LIAISE WITH THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA’S OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES (CAL OES) ON THE DISTRICT’S BEHALF IN ALL MATTERS PERTAINING TO DISASTER ASSISTANCE INFORMATIONAL ITEMS 8. ITEMS ARE PROVIDED TO THE BOARD FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. NO ACTION IS REQUIRED ON THE FOLLOWING AGENDA ITEMS: a) SECOND QUARTER FISCAL YEAR 2026 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM REPORT (KEVIN CAMERON) Engineering Manager, Kevin Cameron, provided the staff report and presentation and responded to Board members’ questions and comments. Director Croucher inquired about the change order rate from 5–10 years ago compared to the current rate, noting that it was previously much higher than the current 4.3% (well below the 5% goal). Mr. Cameron explained that because the rate historically exceeded 5%, the District incorporated a KPI into the Strategic Plan, establishing 5% as the benchmark. Director Gonzalez expressed interest in arranging a Board tour of the 870-2 Reservoir to observe the project’s progress. 5 Vice President Robak inquired about seismic standards for new reservoirs. Mr. Cameron confirmed they are designed by a structural engineer based on AWWA standards specific to the region. b) UPDATE AND REVIEW OF THE DISTRICT’S PROPOSED FY2027 – FY2030 STRATEGIC PLAN, AS DISCUSSED DURING THE DECEMBER 8, 2025 BOARD WORKSHOP (MICHAEL KERR) The Board waived presentation of this item; however, General Manager Martinez reported that the draft plan has been reviewed by committees and is being prepared for a full presentation to the board for adoption in April. c) DISCUSS THE 2026 BOARD MEETING CALENDAR (JENNY DIAZ) District Secretary, Jenny Diaz, indicated that as of today, there were no changes to the calendar. Director Lopez indicated that he would not be present at the April Board meeting. REPORTS 9. GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT General Manager Martinez provided several updates including: - GFOA Award for its FY 2026 budget (22nd consecutive year). - California Society Municipal Finance Officers Award for both the Operating and Capital Improvement budget, which have been awarded consecutively for the last 20 and 21 years. - ACWA JPIA President’s Special Recognition Award for low property claim costs (July 2021-July 2024). - The State Water Resources Control Board completed its sanitary survey of the District’s system on February 9, 2026. A final report will be provided once the findings are received. 10. SAN DIEGO COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY UPDATES Vice President Robak provided updates on CWA matters including its water surplus and efforts to sell it. An MOU with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation will facilitate interstate transfers. Vice President Robak also noted the high cost of potential new water projects and the need to protect ratepayers. Vice President Robak noted that the Directors were provided with a copy of the summary. 6 11. METRO WASTEWATER JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY UPDATES Vice President Robak thanked the board for unanimously approving the JPA agreement and noted his successful advocacy at the City of El Cajon. The County of San Diego is the main agency yet to approve it. 12. PRESIDENT’S REPORT/REQUESTS Vice President Robak’s updates included a tour of the East County AWP project, which will supply direct potable reuse water to the District, and the start of construction on the Rosarito desal plant in Mexico. Vice President Robak formally announced that at the next Board meeting, the Board will hold a public hearing to consider an increase to the Board’s Per Diem. A report from Vice President Robak will be submitted to the District Secretary and will be attached to the minutes for today’s meeting. 13. DIRECTORS’ REPORTS/REQUESTS Director Croucher thanked the Board and staff for their support during this difficult personal time. Director Lopez and Gonzalez echoed support for Director Croucher and praised staff for their community engagement and presence at the East County Chamber of Commerce awards event on February 28, 2026. Vice President Robak acknowledged and appreciated the genuine engagement from staff at the awards event, noting it builds better relationships with the community. Written reports from the Directors will be submitted to the District Secretary, which will be attached to the minutes for today’s meeting. OTAY WATER DISTRICT FINANCING AUTHORITY 13. NO MATTERS TO DISCUSS There were no items scheduled for discussion for the Otay Water District Financing Authority board. 14. ADJOURNMENT With no further business to come before the Board, Vice President Robak adjourned the meeting at 4:46 p.m. OTAY WATER DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS PER DIEM AND MILEAGE CLAIM FORM Pay To: Francisco X. Rivera Period Covered: Employee Number: From: 02/01/26 To: 02/28/26 ITEM DATE MEETING PURPOSE / ISSUES DISCUSSED 1 02/02/26 OWD Ad Hoc Salt Creek Meeting Discuss Salt Creek parcel with Legal Counsel and OWD GM & key staff (Teams). 2 02/04/26 OWD February Board Meeting. Discussed 980-2 & 850-2 pump replacements, consulting services, SDCWA appointment, SARA. 3 02/12/26 OWD EO&WR Committee Meeting (Teams). Reviewed draft agendas for EO&WR Committee and the Finance/Administration Committees. 4 02/17/26 February OWD EO&WR Committee meeting. Discussed OPS building vehicle charging station contract, 2nd Quarter CIP and Strategic Plan. 5 02/19/26 CSDA Meeting Dinner at Butcher Shop, Kearny Mesa. Presentation on cybersecurity issues. 6 02/24/26 Meeting w/GM Martinez & VP Robak to discuss SDCWA agenda. Discussed SDCWA February Board agenda items Administration, MOU, contracts (Teams). 7 02/25/26 East/South SDCWA Caucus Meeting at Denny’s Navajo Road, El Cajon. Water agency representatives from east & south county met w/SDCWA GM to discuss mtg agenda. Mark Robak From:1/1/2026 1/31/2026 ITEM DATE MEETING PURPOSE / ISSUES 1 1/7/2026 Otay Water District Monthly Board Meeting 2 1/8/2026 South County EDC 2026 Kick-Off celebration - NO CHARGE 3 1/9/2026 East County Chamber of Commerce First Friday Breakfast - NO CHARGE 4 1/20/2026 East County Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee - NO CHARGE 5 1/20/2026 Otay Water District Engineering, Operations, and Water Resources (EO&WR) Committee 6 1/20/2026 East County Chamber of Commerce Discuss upcoming SDCWA Board Meeting with Otay GM - NO CHARGE 7 1/20/2026 East County Chamber of Commerce Mixer at Heritage of the America's Museum at Cuyamaca College - NO CHARGE 8 1/21/2026 East County Caucus Discuss upcoming SDCWA Board Meeting with neighboring agencies - NO CHARGE 9 1/21/2026 East County EDC Monthly Board Meeting 10 1/23/2026 East County Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee meeting 11 1/28/2026 Council of Water Utilities Lunch meeting discussion of Colorado River 12 1/29/2026 East County Chamber of Commerce Monthly Board of Directors Meeting 13 1/30/2026 Albondigas South County Hear from San Diego County Assessor/ Recorder/ Clerk Jordan Marks - NO CHARGE Pay To:Period Covered Employee Number OTAY WATER DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS PER-DIEM AND MILEAGE CLAIM FORM Mark Robak From:2/1/2026 2/28/2026 ITEM DATE MEETING PURPOSE / ISSUES 1 2/2/2026 Otay Water District Salt Creek Ad-Hoc Committee 2 2/3/2026 San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce Leadership delegation to Sacramento 3 2/4/2026 San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce Leadership delegation to Sacramento 4 2/6/2026 Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce First Friday Breakfast - NO CHARGE 5 2/11/2026 Veterans East County Alliance (VECA) Lunch meeting at Water Conservation Garden - NO CHARGE 6 2/12/2026 Otay Water District Quarterly meeting with General Manager 7 2/18/2026 East County EDC Monthly Board Meeting 8 2/19/2026 Santee Chamber of Commerce Business & Government Community Connect with Senator Brian Jones - NO CHARGE 9 2/20/2026 East County Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffee Connect at Rancho San Diego YMCA - NO CHARGE 10 2/24/2026 Otay Water District Discuss upcoming SDCWA Board Meeting with Otay GM 11 2/25/2026 East County Caucus Discuss upcoming SDCWA Board Meeting with neighboring agencies 12 2/26/2026 East County Chamber of Commerce Monthly Board Meeting 13 2/27/2026 Albondigas South County Hear from Chula Vista City Attoney Marco Verdugo - NO CHARGE 14 2/28/2026 East County Chamber of Commerce East County Honors Event - Otay was nominee for Sustainability Award OTAY WATER DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS PER-DIEM AND MILEAGE CLAIM FORM Pay To:Period Covered Employee Number OTA Y WATER DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS PER DIEM AND MILEAGE CLAIM FORM Pay To: Delfina Gonzalez Emplovee Number: Period Covered: ITEM DATE MEETING PURPOSE I ISSUES DISCUSSED OTAY WATER DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS PER-DIEM AND MILEAGE CLAIM FORM Pay To: Gary Croucher Period Covered: Employee Number: From: 2/1/2026 To: 2/28/2026 ITEM DATE MEETING PURPOSE/ISSUES DISCUSSED 1 2/4/26 Otay Water District Regular Board Meeting 2 3 4 5 OTA Y WATER DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS PER-DIEM AND MILEAGE CLAIM FORM Pay To: Jose Lopez Period Covered: 2/1/2026-2/28/2026 Employee Number: ITEM DATE MEETING PURPOSE / ISSUES DISCUSSED 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 IO 2/3/26 South County Economic Development Council 2/4/26 Otay Water District 2/6/26 Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce 2/12/26 FLOW 2/18/26 Otay Water District 2/19/26 California Special Districts Association 2/20/26 Otay Water District 2/24/26 Water Conservation Garden JPA 2/28/26 East County Chamber of Commerce Monthly Meeting Regular Board Meeting First Friday Breakfast (No Charge) Monthly Meeting Finance & Administration Committee Meeting Quarterly Meeting Quarterly Meeting with GM Monthly Meeting East County Chamber of Commerce Awards Ceremony SUMMARY OF FORMAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2026 1. Monthly Treasurer’s Report on Investments and Cash Flow. The Board noted and filed the monthly Treasurer’s Report 2. Resolution adopting the benefit summaries between the Water Authority and unrepresented Confidential, Senior Management and Executive employees covering calendar years 2022 through 2026 for California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) compliance. The Board adopted Resolution No. 2026-02, a resolution of the Board of Directors of the San Diego County Water Authority, adopting the amended benefit summaries covering calendar years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026 with unrepresented employees (Confidential, Senior Management and Executive groups). 3. Project Labor Agreement determination for the Lake Hodges Hydroelectric Facility Isolation project. In accordance with Administrative Code section 4.08.070 (Project Labor Agreements), the Board determined that the Lake Hodges Hydroelectric Facility Isolation project does not include a requirement for a project labor agreement. 4. Approve memorandum of understanding with U.S. Bureau of Reclamation on behalf of the United States Department of Interior for the purpose of exploring a Colorado River Imported Water/Interstate Water Transfer Pilot. The Board approved the MOU with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, Southern Nevada Water Authority, Arizona Department of Water Resources, and Central Arizona Water Conservation District to explore potential of interstate transfers and exchanges. 5. Approval of Minutes The Board approved the minutes of the Special Board of Directors’ and Formal Board of Directors’ meetings of January 22, 2026.