HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-08-2026 Administration Committee Complete Agenda PacketNOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NOTICE
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
JULY 8, 2026 - 5:00 PM
ACCESSIBILITY FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC
Your participation is always welcome. OC San offers several ways in which to interact during
this meeting.
MEETING PARTICIPATION INSTRUCTIONS
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IN-PERSON MEETING ATTENDANCE
OC San Headquarters: 18480 Bandilier Circle, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
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ROLL CALL ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE Finance, Information Technology, Environmental Services
and Human Resources
Meeting Date: July 8, 2026 Time: 5:00 p.m. COMMITTEE MEMBERS (13)
OTHERS
STAFF
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Regular Meeting Agenda
Wednesday, July 8, 2026 - 5:00 PM
Headquarters - Board Room
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THE DISABLED: If you require any special disability related accommodations, please
contact the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) Clerk of the Board’s office at (714) 593-7433 at least 72
hours prior to the scheduled meeting. Requests must specify the nature of the disability and the type of
accommodation requested.
AGENDA DESCRIPTION: The agenda provides a brief general description of each item of business to be
considered or discussed. The recommended action does not indicate what action will be taken. The Board of
Directors may take any action which is deemed appropriate.
MEETING RECORDING: A recording of this meeting is available within 24 hours after adjournment of the
meeting at https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx or by contacting the Clerk of the Board.
SUBMIT A COMMENT: You may submit your comments and questions in writing in advance of, or during the
meeting by using the eComment feature available online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx or by
sending them to OCSanClerk@ocsan.gov with the subject line "PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM # [insert relevant item
number]" or "PUBLIC COMMENT NON-AGENDA ITEM". All written public comments will be provided to the
legislative body and may be read into the record or compiled as part of the record.
NOTICE TO DIRECTORS: To place items on the agenda for a Committee or Board Meeting, the item must be
submitted to the Clerk of the Board: Kelly A. Lore, MMC, (714) 593-7433 / klore@ocsan.gov at least 14 days
before the meeting. For any questions on the agenda, Board members may contact staff at:
General Manager: Rob Thompson, rthompson@ocsan.gov / (714) 593 7110
Asst. General Manager: Lorenzo Tyner, ltyner@ocsan.gov / (714) 593 7550
Director of Communications: Jennifer Cabral, jcabral@ocsan.gov / (714) 593 7581
Director of Engineering: Mike Dorman, mdorman@ocsan.gov / (714) 593 7014
Director of Environmental Services: Lan Wiborg, lwiborg@ocsan.gov / (714) 593 7450
Director of Finance: Wally Ritchie, writchie@ocsan.gov / (714) 593 7570
Director of Human Resources: Laura Maravilla, lmaravilla@ocsan.gov / (714) 593 7007
Director of Operations & Maintenance: Riaz Moinuddin, rmoinuddin@ocsan.gov / (714) 593 7269
View Current Board of Directors
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, July 8, 2026
CALL TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL AND DECLARATION OF QUORUM:
Clerk of the Board
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Your participation is always welcome. Specific information as to how to participate in a meeting is detailed in the
Special Notice attached to this agenda. In general, OC San offers several ways in which to interact during
meetings: you may participate in person, join the meeting live via Teams on your computer or similar device or
web browser, join the meeting live via telephone, view the meeting online, and/or submit comments for
consideration before or during the meeting.
REPORTS:
The Committee Chairperson and the General Manager may present verbal reports on miscellaneous matters of
general interest to the Directors. These reports are for information only and require no action by the Directors.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Consent Calendar Items are considered to be routine and will be enacted, by the Committee, after one motion,
without discussion. Any items withdrawn from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion will be considered in
the regular order of business.
1.2026-4734APPROVAL OF MINUTES
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve minutes of the Regular meeting of the Administration Committee held June
10, 2026.
Originator:Kelly Lore
Attachments:
2.2026-4994RENEW NUTANIX SOFTWARE SUBSCRIPTION, SPECIFICATION NO.
S-2026-731BD
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
A. Approve a Purchase Order Contract to Saitech Inc. for the Purchase of Nutanix
Software, Specification No. S-2026-731BD, for a total amount not to exceed
$428,173; and
Page 2 of 5
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, July 8, 2026
B. Approve a contingency of $42,817 (10%).
Originator:Wally Ritchie
Attachments:
NON-CONSENT:
3.2026-50002027 BENEFITS INSURANCE RENEWAL
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
A. Approve the Orange County Sanitation District 2027 Benefits Insurance Renewal
with the carriers listed below for an overall not-to-exceed amount of $21,321,535
as specified below:
1.Benefit Coordinators Company (BCC) (medical, dental, vision plans, and
Employee Assistance Program [EAP]) - Not to Exceed $18,721,669;
2.Lincoln Financial (basic life, short- and long-term disability) - Not to Exceed
$551,619;
3.Lincoln Financial (EMT & Manager disability) - Not to Exceed $36,000;
4.HealthEquity (Health Savings Accounts [HSA]) - Not to Exceed $55,386;
5.Voya (Health Reimbursement Arrangement [HRA]) - Not to Exceed $217,980;
6.WEX (Flexible Spending Accounts [FSA]) - Not to Exceed $11,606;
7.BCC (retiree-paid health premiums, recouped from retirees through monthly
payments) - Not to Exceed $711,964;
8.Approve a contingency of $1,015,311 (5%); and
B. Authorize the General Manager to revise the carriers within the not-to-exceed
amounts listed above for operational efficiency and/or to better meet the needs
of the Orange County Sanitation District and participants.
Originator:Laura Maravilla
Attachments:
4.2026-4993
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
A. Approve a Purchase Order Contract to Nth Generation Computing, Inc. for the
purchase of the VMware Software Enterprise License Agreement (ELA)
Subscription, Specification No. S-2026-732BD, for a five (5)-year term, with a
total amount not to exceed $3,565,600 plus applicable sales tax; and
B. Approve a contingency in the amount of $356,560 (10%).
Originator:Wally Ritchie
Page 3 of 5
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Agenda ReportAttachments:
5.2026-4955PUBLIC AFFAIRS STRATEGIC PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2024-2026
SUMMARY
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2024-2026 Summary.
Originator:Jennifer Cabral
Attachments:
6.2026-4999LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE 2026
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of June 2026.
Originator:Jennifer Cabral
Attachments:
7.2026-5001WASTEWATER REFUNDING REVENUE OBLIGATIONS, SERIES
2026A
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Authorize the General Manager to issue fixed rate Certificates of Participation, to be
referred to as Wastewater Refunding Revenue Obligations, in an amount sufficient to
refund up to $50,700,000 of Wastewater Refunding Revenue Obligations, Series
2017A.
Originator:Wally Ritchie
Attachments:
Page 4 of 5
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, July 8, 2026
INFORMATION ITEMS:
8.2026-5002FY 2025-26 BUDGET AMENDMENT
RECOMMENDATION:
Information Item.
Originator:Lorenzo Tyner
Attachments:
DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS:
CLOSED SESSION:
None.
OTHER BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS, IF
ANY:
BOARD OF DIRECTORS INITIATED ITEMS FOR A FUTURE MEETING:
At this time Directors may request staff to place an item on a future agenda.
ADJOURNMENT:
Adjourn the meeting until the Regular Meeting of the Administration Committee on September
9, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING:
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury and as required by the State of California, Government Code §
54954.2(a), that the foregoing Agenda was posted online at www.ocsan.gov, in the lobby, and outside the main
door of Orange County Sanitation District Headquarters at 18480 Bandilier Cir. Fountain Valley, CA 92708 not
less than 72 hours prior to the meeting date and time above. All public records relating to each agenda item,
including those distributed less than 72 hours prior to the meeting to a majority of the Board of Directors, are
available for public inspection with the Clerk of the Board.
/s/ Kelly A. Lore, MMC
Clerk of the Board July 1, 2026
Page 5 of 5
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-4734 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:1.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Kelly A. Lore, Clerk of the Board
SUBJECT:
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve minutes of the Regular meeting of the Administration Committee held June 10, 2026.
BACKGROUND
In accordance with the Board of Directors Rules of Procedure,an accurate record of each meeting
will be provided to the Directors for subsequent approval at the following meeting.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Resolution No. OC SAN 26-02
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·June 10, 2026 Administration Committee meeting minutes
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 6/25/2026Page 1 of 1
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Orange County Sanitation District
Minutes for the
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
5:00 PM
Headquarters - Board Room
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Administration Committee of the Orange County Sanitation District
was called to order by Committee Chairwoman Christine Marick on Wednesday, June 10,
2026 at 5:01 p.m. in the Orange County Sanitation District Headquarters. Board Vice Chair
Jon Dumitru led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL AND DECLARATION OF QUORUM:
Assistant Clerk of the Board Tania Moore declared a quorum present as follows:
PRESENT:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
ABSENT:None
STAFF PRESENT: Rob Thompson, General Manager; Lorenzo Tyner, Assistant General
Manager; Jennifer Cabral, Director of Communications; Mike Dorman, Director of
Engineering; Laura Maravilla, Director of Human Resources; Wally Ritchie, Director of
Finance; Lan Wiborg, Director of Environmental Services; Tania Moore, Assistant Clerk of the
Board; Mo Abiodun; Jackie Castro; Sam Choi; Daisy Covarrubias; Thys DeVries; Al Garcia;
David Haug; Mark Kawamoto; Rebecca Long; Tom Meregillano; Rob Michaels; Aldwin
Ramirez; Don Stokes; Thomas Vu; Kevin Work; and Ruth Zintzun were present in the Board
Room.
OTHERS PRESENT: Scott Smith, General Counsel was present in the Board Room. Eric
Sapirstein, ENS Resources was present virtually.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
None.
REPORTS:
Chair Marick announced that OC San Administrative Offices will be closed on Friday, July 3,
2026 in observance of Independence Day.
General Manager Rob Thompson did not provide a report.
Page 1 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
CONSENT CALENDAR:
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2026-4733
Originator: Kelly Lore
MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO:
Approve minutes of the Regular meeting of the Administration Committee held May 13,
2026.
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
2. GANN APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 2026-4754
Originator: Wally Ritchie
Adopt Resolution No. OC SAN 26-XX, titled: “A Resolution of the Board of Directors of
the Orange County Sanitation District Establishing the Annual Appropriations Limit for
Fiscal Year 2026-27 for the Orange County Sanitation District in Accordance with the
Provisions of Division 9 of Title 1 of the California Government Code”.
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
3. FY 2026-27 USE CHARGES FOR SANTA ANA WATERSHED
PROJECT AUTHORITY
2026-4759
Originator: Wally Ritchie
Page 2 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
Adopt Resolution No. OC SAN 26-XX, titled: “A Resolution of the Board of Directors of
the Orange County Sanitation District Establishing Use Charges for the 2026-27 Fiscal
Year Pursuant to the Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Agreement with the Santa
Ana Watershed Project Authority (“SAWPA”)”.
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
4. SOLARWINDS SOFTWARE LICENSE AND SUPPORT AGREEMENT
RENEWAL
2026-4902
Originator: Wally Ritchie
A. Approve a Purchase Order Contract to Insight Public Sector Inc. for the
purchase of the Solarwinds Software License and Support Agreement Renewal
for a three (3) year term using the Omnia Partners (COOB COUNTY) IT
Products and Services (23-6692-03), for a total amount not to exceed
$211,465.60 plus applicable sales tax; and
B. Approve a contingency in the amount of $21,147 (10%).
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
5. SERVICENOW SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT RENEWAL 2026-4924
Originator: Wally Ritchie
Page 3 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
A. Approve a Purchase Order for a one-year contract with Carahsoft for a software
license agreement with ServiceNow, utilizing the NASPO ValuePoint
Cooperative Purchasing Contract 7-17-70-40-05 for a total amount not to
exceed $594,536; and
B. Approve a contingency of $59,454 (10%).
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
6. INLAND EMPIRE COMPOSTING AUTHORITY (IERCA) AGREEMENT 2026-4920
Originator: Lan Wiborg
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
7. PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF MAY 2026 2026-4950
Originator: Jennifer Cabral
Page 4 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
Directors to:
Receive and file the Public Affairs Update for the month of May 2026.
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
NON-CONSENT:
Director Chad Wanke left the room at 5:11 p.m.
8. LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF MAY 2026 2026-4940
Originator: Jennifer Cabral
Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of May 2026.
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya Doby
(Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:Chad Wanke
ABSTENTIONS:None
Director Wanke returned to the room at 5:16 p.m.
9. BIOSOLIDS DEEP WELL INJECTION COMMUNICATIONS
CONSULTANT, SPECIFICATION NO. CS-2026-716BD
2026-4921
Originator: Jennifer Cabral
Page 5 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
A. Approve a Professional Consultant Services Agreement to S. Groner
Associates, Inc. (SGA) as a strategic communications consultant for the
Biosolids Deep Well Injection Project, Specification No. CS-2026-716BD for a
total amount not to exceed $903,421 for a three (3) year Agreement with two (2)
one-year renewal options; and
B. Approve a contingency of $90,342 (10%).
C. Approve an optional one time add on of $61,436 for the STEM-Integrated
Schools Outreach Program.
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
10. REMOVALS TO THE PRE-APPROVED ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT
MANUFACTURER (OEM) SOLE SOURCE LIST
2026-4958
Originator: Wally Ritchie
Page 6 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
Approve the following removals to the pre-approved OEM Sole Source List:
·Aanderaa Data Instruments - Current meters
·Additel Corporation - Digital Pressure Test Gauges for Bay Bridge Pump Station
·Alhambra Foundry - Manhole Frames & Covers
·Altronic - CenGen Engine Ignition Subsystem Components
·Ameron - Manhole Toppers
·AM-Liner - Sewer Lining
·Arc Wireless - Paging Services
·Ashbrook (Bellmer/Winkler) - Sludge belt filter presses
·Basler - Electrical protective relays and regulators
·BR Frost Company - Jaw Clutch Assemblies
·CECO Fybroc - Pumps and Parts
·Chemineer/NOV - Mixers
·Chevrolet - Trunk Engine Replacements
·Chevron - Chevron 5200 HDAX Low Ash 40 Lubricating Oil
·Cla-Val - Reclaim Plant water backup for plant water system
·Cleaver-Brooks - Burner elements
·CSI/Emerson - MSP vibrations
·Dr. Kristy Forsgren - Fish Liver Histopathology Analysis and Reporting
·Eaton - Self-Cleaning Strainers
·Eaton - Variable frequency drives for process pumps
·Electrabond - coating of belt filter press rollers
·Enfotech - Pre-Treatment Software
·Essco - Submersible Pumps
·Evident Scientific, Inc. - Olympus IPLEX GX Videoscope and related accessories
·First American Real Estate - Online geographic realquest report
·Ford Hall Company, Inc. - Weir Wolf/Algae Sweep Automation Cleaning Equipment
Parts and Service
·Gates Fiberglass Installers - On-site/Field Fiberglass tank and ducting repairs
·GE Inspection
·Golden Bell - Insect Control
·Gooch Thermal Systems, Inc. - Spiral Heat Exchangers
·Graham Corporation - Liquid Ring Pumps
·Groth Corporation - Flame Arrestors and Parts
·Guidance Software, Inc. - e-Discovery software
·Howden Roots/Turblex - Aeration blowers service
·Hydro Gate - Weir Gates & Parts
·Innovyze, Inc. - Hydraulic Monitoring and CCTV Data
·Integrated Turbo Machinery - Maintenance, repairs and service of steam turbine
multi-stage rotor
·Interscan/Gas Detection - 2 Point H2S Monitoring Systems
·Iopredict Inc. - Test validation for Lead Instrumentation, Instrumentation Techs 1 &
Page 7 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
II
·ITT Standard - Heat exchangers
·LECO - GC Time of Flight mass spectrometer
·M.K. Plastics Corporation - Flex connectors for foul air fans
·Marlow - Process Pumps
·McCrometer - MW510 Flowmeters
·Met-Pro Technologies dba HEE/DUALL - Trickling Filter Fans
·Midway Manufacturing & Machine - Custom brackets & fittings for vehicles/electric
carts and portable equipment
·Milton Roy - Pumps and Equipment
·Mobius Institute - Mobius iLearnReliability Enterprise Training Product
·Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) - Ocean Mooring Support
·Motorola, Inc. - Radios
·Moyno - Process Pumps
·Moyno - Pumps, Parts and Grinders
·Newport Dunes Resort and Marina - Marina Lease for Ocean Monitoring Program
(OMP) Vessel
·Nixon-Egli Equipment Co. - Modifications and Custom Equipment Installation on
Welder Service Truck
·Noria - Lube Awareness Training
·Nuttal Gear - Gear Drive Assembly and Related Parts/Equipment
·Oceco - Flame Arrestors on Digesters
·Orange County Muffler - Bumper Mounted Tire Recovery System
·Orange County Sheriff’s Department - Law Enforcement & Security Services
·Parkson - Washer Compactor
·Perkin Elmer - ICP Mass Spectrometer
·Philadelphia Mixing Solutions LLC - Parts for rebuild and repairs of gearbox for
Aeration Basins
·PlanetBids, Inc. - Online vendor and bid management
·Prominent Fluid Controls/PFC - Process metering pumps and drive assemblies
·Pulsafeeder - Ferric injection pumps
·Pulsafeeder - Pulsafeeder Engineered products and replacement parts for chemical
pump station
·Rand McNally - Thomas Bros Maps
·RBMWare - Software and 2310 vibration analyzers
·RBR - Electronic Water Quality Sensors
·Retrofit Services Company - HVAC Controls System Maintenance
·Rincon Truck Center - Diagnostics and Repairs of Diesel Engine Trucks
·Robicon - Variable frequency drives for pumps
·Rodney Hunt, Inc. - Diversion Gates and Actuators
·Saft America - UPS Batteries
·Sancon 100 Epoxy/Urethane - Coating System
·SANS - Vouchers for Cyber Security Training
·Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories - Equipment, materials, and services for
Page 8 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
electrical power system protective relays and load-shedding systems.
·SDT Ultrasound Solutions - SDT Ultrasound instruments, hardware and software
·Siemens Building Management System - Maintenance tech training for HVAC and
instrumentation departments
·Skalar - BOD Robotics
·Snap-On - Smog Machine Repair Service
·Sonetics - Wireless Headsets and System
·Southern California Coastal Water Research Project (SCCWRP) - Bight ’18
Biological Impacts Assessment
·Sparling Instruments - Process flowmeters
·SPX Flow/Lightnin - Gear Box repair parts, equipment and service
·Sulzer (Formerly ABS) - Pumps and Parts
·Thermo Electron - ICP Atomic Emission Spectrometer and GC Mass Spectrometer
·Tireshark - Traffic spikes
·Titus - Composite Manhole Covers
·Toshiba - HVK Circuit Breakers
·Trident - Actuate Parts and Repairs
·Trimble Water - Trimble Unity Software Licensing and Support
·Turvac - Alignment Certification Training
·Vapex Environmental Technologies - Sentinel Scrubber Monitor/Controller Products
·Vaughan - Pump Maintenance and Parts
·Verderflex
·Vision Internet Solutions - Internet Website
·Waterman Gates - Waterman engineered products, parts & equipment
·Waters Corporation - Liquid chromatograph mass spectrometer
·WSG & Solutions, Inc. - Grit Classifier Repair Parts
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
11. FY 2026-27 PROPERTY-LIABILITY INSURANCE RENEWALS 2026-4755
Originator: Wally Ritchie
Page 9 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
Approve the Orange County Sanitation District FY 2026-27 Property-Liability Insurance
Renewals included in the FY 2026-27 and FY 2027-28 Budget for the not-to-exceed
amounts specified below:
Property and Boiler & Machinery - Not to Exceed $2,870,413
Excess General Liability Insurance - Not to Exceed $1,485,347
Excess Workers’ Compensation Insurance - Not to Exceed $ 518,000
Earthquake Insurance - Not to Exceed $ 166,381
Cyber Liability $ 159,829
TOTAL $5,199,970
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
12. INVEST AND/OR REINVEST ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION
DISTRICT’S FUNDS AND ADOPT INVESTMENT POLICY
STATEMENT
2026-4757
Originator: Wally Ritchie
Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Adopt Resolution No. OC SAN 26-XX entitled: “A Resolution of the Board of Directors
of the Orange County Sanitation District, Authorizing the Orange County Sanitation
District’s Treasurer to Invest and/or Reinvest the Orange County Sanitation District’s
Funds, Adopting the Orange County Sanitation District’s Investment Policy Statement
and Performance Benchmarks, and Repealing Resolution No. OC SAN 25-20”.
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
Page 10 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
13. PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 AND FISCAL YEAR 2027-28
BUDGET
2026-4758
Originator: Wally Ritchie
FY 2026-27 FY 2027-28
Net Operating $ 279,712,720 $ 291,268,126
Self-Insurance - Workers’ Comp.$ 1,568,000 $ 1,697,500
Self-Insurance - Property & Gen. Liability $ 4,991,970 $ 5,460,167
Net Capital Improvement Program $ 291,475,441 $ 313,540,607
Capital Equipment $ 19,445,729 $ 14,322,073
Debt/COP Service $ 60,972,861 $ 65,127,111
Reduction of Long-Term Liabilities $ 15,000,000 $ 15,000,000
Total $ 673,166,721 $ 706,415,584
AYES:Debbie Baker, Ted Bui, Jon Dumitru, Ryan Gallagher, Melinda Liu,
Christine Marick, Jose Medrano, Andrew Nguyen, David Shawver,
Jamie Valencia, Chad Wanke, Erik Weigand, Jordan Wu and Tanya
Doby (Alternate)
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
INFORMATION ITEMS:
None.
DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS:
None.
Page 11 of 12
ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE
Minutes June 10, 2026
CLOSED SESSION:
None.
OTHER BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS, IF
ANY:
None.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS INITIATED ITEMS FOR A FUTURE MEETING:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Chair Marick declared the meeting adjourned at 5:40 p.m. to the next Regular Administration
Committee meeting to be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.
Submitted by:
_____________________
Tania Moore, CMC
Assistant Clerk of the Board
Page 12 of 12
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-4994 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:2.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Wally Ritchie, Director of Finance
SUBJECT:
RENEW NUTANIX SOFTWARE SUBSCRIPTION, SPECIFICATION NO. S-2026-731BD
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
A. Approve a Purchase Order Contract to Saitech Inc. for the Purchase of Nutanix Software,
Specification No. S-2026-731BD, for a total amount not to exceed $428,173; and
B. Approve a contingency of $42,817 (10%).
BACKGROUND
Nutanix is a solution that consolidates computing and storage on the same physical hardware.It has
been used to host infrastructure systems for both Office and Industrial Control Systems (ICS)
computing environments.
The current software subscription for the ICS environment will expire in August 2026.This renewal is
for the ICS environment only,for a period of one (1)year,to allow us to transition to a different
platform.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·24/7/365 treatment plant reliability
·Ensure the public’s money is wisely spent
·Maintain a culture of improving efficiency to reduce the cost to provide the current service level
or standard
·Protect OC San assets
PROBLEM
The current Nutanix Software Subscription expires in August 2026.A lapse in coverage could impact
the ICS computing environment.
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File #:2026-4994 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:2.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Renew the Nutanix Software Subscription for the Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Environment.
TIMING CONCERNS
Renewing the Nutanix Software Subscription is imperative for the uninterrupted support and safety of
plant operations.
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
A decision not to renew Nutanix Software Subscription would mean the solution would no longer be
supported, security patches could not be applied, and the product could not be used legally.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
March 2022 -Approved a Purchase Order to ePlus Technology,Inc.for the purchase of software,
hardware,and services to implement and configure the Nutanix metro clusters for Plant No.1
Industrial Control System,Specification No.E-2022-1300BD,for a total amount not to exceed
$560,195,plus applicable sales tax and shipping;and approved a contingency in the amount of
$56,019 (10%).
July 2021 -Approved a Purchase Order to ePlus Technology Inc.for Specification No.E-2021-
1253BD for IT Server Hardware for Outfall Low Flow Pump Station,Contract No.J-117B,for a total
amount of $793,882.96, plus applicable sales tax and freight.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
An invitation for bids was issued on May 7,2026,via OpenGov.Bids were due on June 1,2026.OC
San received four (4) bids, which are valid for 180 calendar days from the bid opening date.
The following is a list of the firms who submitted a bid:
Company Name Bid Determination
Saitech Inc $428,172.80 Responsive / Responsible
ePlus Technology $431,474.56 Responsive / Responsible
Questivity $441,774.08 Responsive / Responsible
Rigel Networks LLC $563,200.00 Non-Responsive / Non-Responsible
A requirement of this Invitation for Bids was that vendors be authorized Nutanix resellers.Rigel
Networks LLC was determined not to meet this requirement.
Based on these results,staff recommends approving a Purchase Order Contract with Saitech Inc.
The term of this Purchase Order Contract will begin upon effective date of the Notice to Proceed.
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CEQA
N/A
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
This request complies with the authority levels of the Orange County Sanitation District's Purchasing
Ordinance.This item has been budgeted (FY 2026-27 &2027-28 Budget,Section 6,Page 24,
Repairs & Maintenance) and the budget is sufficient for the recommended action.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
N/A
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 6/30/2026Page 3 of 3
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ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-5000 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:3.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Laura Maravilla, Director of Human Resources
SUBJECT:
2027 BENEFITS INSURANCE RENEWAL
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
A. Approve the Orange County Sanitation District 2027 Benefits Insurance Renewal with the
carriers listed below for an overall not-to-exceed amount of $21,321,535 as specified below:
1.Benefit Coordinators Company (BCC) (medical, dental, vision plans, and Employee
Assistance Program [EAP]) - Not to Exceed $18,721,669;
2.Lincoln Financial (basic life, short- and long-term disability) - Not to Exceed $551,619;
3.Lincoln Financial (EMT & Manager disability) - Not to Exceed $36,000;
4.HealthEquity (Health Savings Accounts [HSA]) - Not to Exceed $55,386;
5.Voya (Health Reimbursement Arrangement [HRA]) - Not to Exceed $217,980;
6.WEX (Flexible Spending Accounts [FSA]) - Not to Exceed $11,606;
7.BCC (retiree-paid health premiums, recouped from retirees through monthly payments) - Not
to Exceed $711,964;
8.Approve a contingency of $1,015,311 (5%); and
B. Authorize the General Manager to revise the carriers within the not-to-exceed amounts listed
above for operational efficiency and/or to better meet the needs of the Orange County
Sanitation District and participants.
BACKGROUND
The Orange County Sanitation District (OC San)provides healthcare and welfare insurance benefits
(plans)to employees and eligible dependents in accordance with collective bargaining agreements,
personnel policies and adopted resolutions.
OC San’s benefit plans are renewed annually on January 1.Human Resources (HR)manages OC
San’s benefits program.OC San’s benefits broker,Alliant,evaluates market conditions,negotiates
with insurance carriers,and secures the most cost-effective coverage for participants.The planning
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process starts in April and insurance contracts are finalized and signed in August.
The total cost of insurance coverage for the 2027 Plan Year will be $20,306,224,an overall increase
of $1,850,634 or 10%.By comparison,annual increases were 10.5%in 2024,4.4%in 2025,and
12.8% in 2026.
This year’s renewal costs are being driven by several industry-wide factors, including:
·Increased use of advanced medical technologies and treatment options
·Growth in specialty pharmaceuticals, including cancer therapies and GLP-1 medications
·Rising rates of chronic health conditions and obesity, resulting in greater healthcare utilization
·Increasing high-cost claims and medical inflation
Despite these market pressures,OC San continues to implement strategies to manage healthcare
costs.These efforts include participation in the Public Risk Innovation,Solutions,and Management
(PRISM)insurance risk pool,ongoing review of utilization trends,plan design changes,bundled
insurance coverages,and competitively shopping options and negotiating rate guarantees.In
response to rising medical costs,PRISM’s Board has explored and proactively examined multiple
cost-containment strategies and remains committed to monitoring evolving research,market trends,
and best practices to support long-term sustainability of member agencies’ health plans.
Since joining PRISM in 2015,OC San has benefited from favorable insurance renewal results.From
2017 through 2026,average annual renewal increases were 4.33%for Kaiser plans,4.36%for
Anthem HMO plans,and 3.52%for Anthem PPO/HDHP plans.The overall average increase for the
PRISM pool during this period was 5.64%.
Employees share in the cost of medical and dental insurance in accordance with current collective
bargaining agreements.For medical insurance coverage,employees contribute 20%of the premium
costs,with the exception of those enrolled in employee only HMO coverage who contribute 10%of
the premium cost.OC San covers the cost of all other lines of coverage including vision,basic life,
disability, EAP, HAS, and HRA.
Retirees may continue OC San medical and/or dental coverage by paying 100%of applicable
premiums.OC San incorporates the cost of this item in the insurance renewal costs,as it is paid in
advance, and reimbursed by the retiree through monthly payments.
A legacy retiree medical benefit remains in place for employees hired before July 1,1988,providing
2.5 months of OC San-paid medical insurance for each year of continuous service upon retirement.
Currently, 5 retirees receive this benefit, and no active employees are eligible to qualify in the future.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Offer competitive compensation and benefits
·Comply with OC San Policy 4.1 - Insurance
PROBLEM
OC San has a contractual obligation to provide health and welfare benefits to employees and eligible
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dependents. Current insurance coverage expires December 31, 2026.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Approve the benefits insurance renewal with the respective carriers and the contingency,as
described above, to ensure continued coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
TIMING CONCERNS
Board approval will ensure OC San meets the associated deadlines to finalize insurance contracts in
August for continued health insurance coverage.
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
Without Board approval,OC San cannot finalize insurance contracts,resulting in a lapse of health
and welfare benefits for employees and eligible dependents,and noncompliance with collective
bargaining agreements, personnel policies, and adopted resolutions.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
N/A
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
PRISM Risk Sharing Pool
The membership with PRISM,which was approved by the Board of Directors in May 2015,has
resulted in cost-effective health insurance coverage for OC San by leveraging volume as we are part
of a risk-sharing pool comprised of public entities.
Medical Insurance
OC San offers a choice of medical plans through Anthem Blue Cross and Kaiser Permanente.
HMO (Health Maintenance Organization)plans offer comprehensive coverage.Employees have a
choice between the Anthem Blue Cross HMO or the Kaiser HMO plan.The PPO (Preferred Provider
Organization)plan through Anthem Blue Cross offers a network of doctors and healthcare facilities
that provide services to plan members at special discounted rates.OC San also offers two high-
deductible plans to eligible employees:a high-deductible HMO plan through Kaiser and a high-
deductible PPO plan through Anthem Blue Cross.
Dental Insurance
OC San provides the Delta Dental plan to all benefit eligible employees.
Vision Insurance
OC San provides vision insurance to all benefit eligible employees through Vision Service Plan
(VSP).
Basic Life Insurance
Life insurance provides protection for an employee’s beneficiary in the event of death.All benefit
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eligible full-time and part-time employees automatically receive Basic Life and Accidental Death &
Dismemberment insurance coverage.The benefit amount is up to $50,000 for employees,and three
times salary for managers and executives. Coverage is currently offered by Lincoln Financial.
Short-Term Disability Insurance
The short-term disability insurance plan provides income protection on a temporary basis for
employees who are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness or injury.Under the plan,
income benefits may be received for up to 26 weeks.OC San pays the entire cost of coverage for
regular full-time and part-time employees. Coverage is currently offered by Lincoln Financial.
Long-Term Disability Insurance
The long-term disability insurance plan provides income protection for an extended period for
employees who are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness or injury.Under the plan,
employees who are disabled for more than 90 days are eligible to receive a benefit of 67%of their
basic monthly pay,up to $5,000/month.OC San pays the entire cost of coverage for regular full-time
and part-time employees with five or more years of service.Coverage is currently offered by Lincoln
Financial.
Executive Disability
This is a supplemental long-term disability insurance plan,which provides increased income
protection for executives and managers.Under the plan,eligible employees who are disabled for
more than 90 days due to a non-work-related illness or injury are eligible to receive an additional
benefit of $3,100/month.The first $5,000/month is covered by the OC San group long-term disability
plan benefit. Coverage is offered through The Standard.
Health Savings Account
Eligible employees who elect the Anthem High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)are simultaneously
enrolled in a Health Savings Account (HSA)which is governed by IRS rules and provides a tax-
favorable method for employees to contribute and withdraw funds for qualified health-related
expenses.In accordance with collective bargaining agreements,OC San currently makes an annual
contribution to the HSA based on the increased deductible and the savings generated by employees
electing the HDHP plan compared to the PPO plan. Coverage is offered through HealthEquity.
Health Reimbursement Arrangement
Eligibility for enrollment in a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)is based on employee group
affiliation,and only a subset of OC San’s employee groups participates.This plan provides
participants and eligible dependents with individual accounts for reimbursement of qualified medical
expenses during retirement or following separation from OC San.OC San covers administrative
costs up to $30 per participant per year and makes a monthly contribution to employee accounts
based on the agreed upon terms outlined in a collective bargaining agreement or Resolution.
Coverage is offered through BPAS/Voya.
Flexible Spending Accounts
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)allow employees to set aside funds on a pre-tax basis to pay for
qualified healthcare and/or dependent care expenses during a particular plan year.OC San offers
Healthcare, Dependent Care, and Limited Purpose FSA accounts.
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Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP)protects employees and family members when they need
help with personal problems such as marital and relationship problems;stress,anxiety,and
depression; grief and loss; or substance abuse. Coverage is offered through ComPsych.
CEQA
N/A
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
This request complies with the authority levels of OC San’s Purchasing Ordinance.This item has
been budgeted (Budget FY 2026-27 and FY 2027-28,Section 5,Page 4,Operating Budget)and the
budget is sufficient for the recommended action.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
N/A
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ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-4993 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:4.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Wally Ritchie, Director of Finance
SUBJECT:
RENEW VMWARE SOFTWARE ENTERPRISE LICENSE AGREEMENT,SPECIFICATION NO.S-
2026-732BD
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
A. Approve a Purchase Order Contract to Nth Generation Computing, Inc.for the purchase of the
VMware Software Enterprise License Agreement (ELA) Subscription, Specification No. S-2026
-732BD, for a five (5)-year term, with a total amount not to exceed $3,565,600 plus applicable
sales tax; and
B. Approve a contingency in the amount of $356,560 (10%).
BACKGROUND
Orange County Sanitation District’s (OC San)current VMware Enterprise License Agreement (ELA)
is ending in August 2026.VMware is used at OC San for server and desktop virtualization in both
Office and Industrial Control System computing environments.Virtualization is a technology that
creates virtual representations of servers,storage,networks,and other physical machines.It
provides high availability and resiliency, increases efficiency, and reduces expenses.
This purchase order contract represents a significant increase in cost over the prior period.The
VMware product was purchased by Broadcom which packaged the product differently and raised the
price for the more complete product offering.The competitors in this product space matched this
product packaging strategy.In response OC San has chosen VMware for both virtualization and
related storage management as it is still the most cost-effective solution.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·24/7/365 treatment plant reliability
·Ensure the public’s money is wisely spent
·Maintain a culture of improving efficiency to reduce the cost to provide the current service level
or standard
·Protect OC San assets
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PROBLEM
The current VMware ELA expires in August 2026.A lapse in coverage could impact OC San’s
production computing environment.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Renew the VMware Enterprise License Agreement Subscription.
TIMING CONCERNS
Renewal of VMware ELA is imperative for the continued uninterrupted support and safety of plant
operations.
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
A decision not to renew the VMware ELA means the solution would no longer be supported,security
patches could not be applied, and VMware products could not be used legally.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
July 2023 -Approved a Purchase Order to Nth Generation Computing,Inc.for the purchase of the
VMWare Enterprise License Agreement (ELA)Subscription Upgrade and Renewal for a three (3)
year term using the NASPO ValuePoint Master Agreement No.AR2472,California Contract #7-17-
70-40-05,for a total amount not to exceed $574,585 plus applicable sales tax;and Approved a
contingency in the amount of $57,458 (10%).
July 2018 -Authorized a Purchase Order Contract with Nth Generation Computing,Inc.for VMware
Licenses and Support,Specification Number S-2018-954BD-R,for a total amount not to exceed
$595,272; and Approved a contingency of $59,527 (10%).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
An invitation for bids was issued on May 7,2026,via OpenGov.Bids were due on June 1,2026.OC
San received three (3) bids, which are valid for 180 calendar days from the bid opening date.
The following is a list of the firms that submitted a bid:
Company Name Bid Determination
Nth Generation Computing, Inc.$3,565,600 Responsive / Responsible
Saitech Inc $3,570,995 Responsive / Responsible
ePlus Technology $3,624,279 Responsive / Responsible
Based on these results,staff recommends awarding the Purchase Order Contract to Nth Generation
Computing,Inc.The term of this Purchase Order Contract will begin upon the effective date of Notice
to Proceed.
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CEQA
N/A
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
This request complies with authority levels of OC San’s Purchasing Ordinance.This item has been
budgeted (FY 2026-27 &2027-28 Budget,Section 6,Page 24,Repairs &Maintenance)and the
budget is sufficient for the recommended action.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
N/A
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 6/30/2026Page 3 of 3
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ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-4955 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:5.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Jennifer Cabral, Director of Communications
SUBJECT:
PUBLIC AFFAIRS STRATEGIC PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2024-2026 SUMMARY
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2024-2026 Summary.
BACKGROUND
The Orange County Sanitation District’s (OC San)Public Affairs Office is responsible for developing,
managing and disseminating all internal and external communications.The primary objective of the
Public Affairs team is to ensure messages are accurate,transparent,and foster trust and confidence
in OC San.An integrated Public Affairs Strategic Plan is essential to engage the diverse audiences
and align outreach efforts with OC San’s mission and values.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders
·Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators,stakeholders,and
neighboring communities
·Make it easy for people to understand OC San’s roles and value to the community
·Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program
PROBLEM
OC San’s Public Affairs Office supports a wide range of initiatives that require effective
communication to both internal and external stakeholders.Inconsistent or uncoordinated messaging
can reduce impact and hinder public understanding of OC San’s mission and services.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
The Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2024-2026 included goals,objectives,strategies,
and tactics to execute the various messages and efforts set forth by OC San.The two-year plan was
effective through June 2026,with updates provided to the Administration Committee every six
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months,including a year-end report.With the period complete,a summary report has been
prepared.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
December 2025 -Received and filed the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2024-2026 Mid
-Year Update.
July 2025 -Received and filed the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Year-End Update to the Public Affairs
Strategic Plan (FY 2024-2026).
December 2024 -Received and filed the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2024-2026 Mid
-Year Update.
June 2024 - Received and filed the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2024-2026.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Summary of Fiscal Years 2024-2026:
OC San’s Public Affairs Office Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2024-2026 (Plan)was developed based
upon the principles of OC San’s mission of protecting public health and the environment and to
support the implementation of OC San’s Strategic Plan.This Plan offered a vision to unify
communication efforts and focus resources to achieve the greatest impact and greatest results.The
Plan consisted of 11 categories. Below is a summary of the completed goals of the two-year plan.
·Employee Engagement Communications
Goal: Optimize communication with internal audience including those operating in the field.
o Conducted an Employee Engagement Survey in fall 2024 with a 55 percent response
rate
o Launched the Community Corner initiative in response to feedback from the
engagement survey and held three events across Plant Nos. 1 & 2 and Headquarters
o Redesigned the Volunteer Incentive Program to increase employee participation
§1,160 volunteer hours
o Launched a newly designed intranet (The San Box)
§Posted 1,241 stories and updates
o Distributed 104 Three Things to Know Emails (weekly email)
o Published 12 issues of the employee newsletter,The Pipeline
o Hosted 10 employee events
o Developed a new employee welcome kit and distributed 82 kits
o Held an employee t-shirt design contest;the winning design is available at the OC San
company store
o Held first ever Employee Art Contest with six submissions
o Hosted the Honor Wall event for five honorees and over 100 guests
o Hosted the Take Your Kid to Work Day event for the first time since 2017 with over 200
kids and over 100 employees participating
o Held the first Employee Family Picnic in over 20 years,with more than 300 staff and
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o Held the first Employee Family Picnic in over 20 years,with more than 300 staff and
family members in attendance
·Industry Experts
Goal:Establish and solidify OC San’s reputation as infrastructure leaders in the wastewater
and resource recovery industry.
o 54 agency awards received with 23 of them specific to Public Affairs
o 54 speaking engagements, reaching over 1,400 people
o Launched the Resource Innovation for a Sustainable Environment (RISE)program
highlighting our sustainability initiatives
·Media Relations
Goal: Cultivate relationships with traditional and social media journalists and influencers.
o 14 press releases issued
o 1,421 social media posts across five platforms with an average reach of 6,300
o 2,865 new followers across four platforms
o 48 articles published (including an OC San mention)
·Agency Branding and Messaging
Goal:Enhance OC San’s image and branding by utilizing proper messaging in external
communication pieces such as OC San’s website,presentations,digital media,and
advertising, which includes maintaining a positive experience for OC San visitors.
o Published eight (8)issues of the OC San Connection Newsletter,reaching an average
of 3,500 subscribers per issue
o Published 107 articles on the OC San website
o Completed 387 graphic design projects
o Installed an educational pipe display for OC San Headquarters
o Updated OC San’s Video library - nine (9) new videos completed
o Added 106 new honorees to the Honor Roll Permittee awards program
o Developed and launched a new website
·Educational Outreach
Goal:Identify and implement avenues for education and outreach within OC San’s service
area to promote OC San’s mission and vision.
o Hosted 229 tours reaching over 4,650 people
o Partnered with the Heritage Museum of Orange County through June 2025 to include
OC San messaging reaching approximately 2,500 people
o Participated in 24 community events reaching over 4,200 people
o Continued Inside the Outdoors program,resulting in engagement with over 2,400
students
o Held three sessions of the Wastewater 101 Citizens’Academy that concluded with 178
graduates
o Created and launched a Library Program to highlight OC San messaging and careers in
wastewater
o Hosted a film screening of a documentary highlighting America’s essential water
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professionals, attended by over 100 guests
·Capital and Maintenance Outreach
Goal:Develop and implement outreach programs that will engage the communities affected by
OC San construction and maintenance activities.
o Provided outreach support for more than a dozen Capital Improvement Program
projects
o 34 printed notifications distributed reaching over 71.4k people
o 73 electronic messages issued, reaching over 2,400 residents
o Four (4) presentations given to City Councils
o Held four (4) community meetings
o Conducted Construction Outreach team training for engineering staff
o Visited neighborhoods to share project information with residents
·Legislative Affairs
Goal:Proactive engagement in legislative advocacy efforts that could impact OC San and the
wastewater industry.
o Developed annual Legislative and Regulatory Plan
o Issued 16 State position letters
o Issued two (2) Federal position letters
o Actively tracked 60 bills
o Participated in Advocacy Day in Sacramento and met with six representatives from
different Senate and Committee offices
·Grants Coordination
Goal: Monitor, track, and apply for grants available to OC San.
o Continued supporting the $3.45 million in community project funding
o Researched grant opportunities applicable to OC San
·Local Government Affairs
Goal:Ensure that local elected officials,member agencies,stakeholders,and OC San Board
Members are actively engaged in the work of OC San.
o Board Member Speaking Points issued monthly
o Coordinated Board Member Orientation
o Developed OC San’s Annual Report
o Hosted two in-person State of OC San events reaching over 150 participants for each
event
o Hosted representatives from 43 public agencies and council/board offices for facility
tours
o Published 24 “Five Minutes Per Month” emails
o Produced eight (8) member-agency outreach toolkits
·Crisis Management
Goal:Ensure the Public Affairs Office serves as the primary spokesperson for OC San during
normal business and crisis scenarios and facilitates the dissemination of information.
o Continued monitoring and updating the Public Affairs Office’s Continuity of Operations
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o Continued monitoring and updating the Public Affairs Office’s Continuity of Operations
Plan
o Supported OC San during emergency situations
o Participated in tabletop exercises
·General Manager Support
Goal:Ensure the General Manager and Assistant General Managers are supported with
information necessary to communicate to the varied OC San audiences.
o Produced 24 General Manager Reports
o Prepared 24 Board Member talking points
o Planned and hosted two (2) All-Hands meetings
o Developed material for speaking engagements and presentations
o Coordinated Strategic Planning update workshops
o Facilitated General Manager’s Work Plan coordination including mid-year updates and
year-end reports
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
All items included in the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2024-2026 were budgeted in
the FY 2024-2026 Budget.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete
agenda package:
·Public Affairs Strategic Plan, FY 2024-2026
·Public Affairs Portfolio, FY 2024-2026
·Presentation
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 7/1/2026Page 5 of 5
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PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
1
Public Affairs Strategic Plan
FY 2024-2026
Introduction
The Orange County Sanitation District’s (OC San) Public Affairs Office (PAO) is responsible for managing
all internal and external communications. The PAO's main goal is to ensure messages are accurate,
transparent, and build public trust and confidence. An integrated Public Affairs Strategic Plan is
essential for effectively addressing the diverse audiences we serve.
The PAO offers services, tools, and programs to meet OC San’s communication needs. This
includes media relations, website and intranet site content, construction outreach, elected
officials and government relations, internal communications, education, outreach, and graphic
development.
The PAO has developed a Strategic Plan (Plan) for Fiscal Years 2024 - 2026. This Plan is
developed based upon the principles of OC San’s Mission of protecting public health and the
environment and will support the implementation of OC San’s Strategic Plan. This Plan offers a
vision to unify our communication efforts and focus resources to achieve the greatest impact
and greatest results.
Because much of what is planned and created by this group is based on external factors and
therefore outside of our control, flexibility and fluidity is integrated into the Plan. The PAO will
follow the guidance set forth by management and the Board of Directors to carry out OC San’s
messaging and support our member agencies.
Background Information
OC San represents 20 cities, 4 special districts, and a portion of the unincorporated County of
Orange. This area represents a community of 2.6 million people with approximately 550,000
customer accounts.
Unlike most public agencies where there is direct contact with customers, OC San’s billing
occurs through the County of Orange property tax bills. Therefore, OC San must work through
other means to communicate with the public and the rate payers.
We have a 25-member Board of Directors, and more than 650 employees within six
departments with various goals and objectives. While these groups work independently on a
variety of projects, the goal of the PAO is to provide support and messaging that is consistent
throughout the agency so that we are one voice, representing the same overall goals, and
portraying the same brand.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
2
There are many challenges with serving such a large and diverse customer base, however; there
are also great opportunities working through the strategies laid out in this Plan.
Public Affairs Team
The division is staffed with seven full-time employees and overseen by a supervisor and a
department head.
Jennifer Cabral, Director of Communications
Daisy Covarrubias, Public Affairs Supervisor
Rebecca Long, Senior Public Affairs Specialist
Belen Carrillo, Senior Public Affairs Specialist
Kelly Newell, Public Affairs Specialist
Public Affairs Specialist – Vacant
Gregg Deterding, Graphics Designer
Isai Carrillo, Graphics Designer
Cheryl Scott, Administrative Assistant
Each of these team members carry out specific functions to meet the communication goals and
objectives laid out in this Plan.
Situation Analysis
• OC San approved a five-year rate program in 2023. Public communication must account
for the financial impact on OC San ratepayers as decisions and proposed fees for the
next five years are developed and communicated.
• OC San must continue to attract talented and qualified personnel to fill vacancies.
Effectively communicating OC San’s culture and emphasizing the importance of
professional relationships is essential to the effectiveness and functionality of the
agency.
• OC San will have new Board leadership and is anticipating a high turnover post the
November 2024 election. Continuous engagement with the Board of Directors will be
critical for the success of this agency.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
3
• As an essential service, OC San has continued to execute the Capital Improvement
Program (CIP) to keep the regional projects on schedule, improving and maintaining the
regional sewer system throughout the service area. In the next two fiscal years, OC San
plans to award 38 construction contracts worth a total of $340 million.
• OC San administrative staff have moved into a new Headquarters across the street from
Plant No. 1, in Fountain Valley. The new building houses over 300 staff members that
were previously spread across 10 buildings. Internal communications and engagement
will need to become a greater focal point to ensure OC San’s culture remains positive
between staff located at the Plants, and staff at Headquarters.
Mission
The Public Affairs Office is committed to communicating information about OC San in a timely,
accurate and accessible way to the employees, the Board of Directors, our member agencies,
elected officials, the public, and the news media.
• We are committed to open, honest, clear, and respectful two-way communication with
our audiences.
• We are dedicated to informing others about how OC San serves the public and protects
the environment.
• We are committed to outstanding customer service by responding to requests quickly
and efficiently.
• We are dedicated to teamwork and collaboration as well as being creative and taking
the initiative to be out in front of issues.
Audiences
This Public Affairs Plan focuses largely on four primary audiences.
• Internal
o Board of Directors
o Executive Management Team
o Employees
o Retirees
• The Public
o Ratepayers
o Member Agencies
o Residents, Businesses, Commuters Impacted by OC San Construction and
Maintenance
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
4
o OC San Neighbors near our facilities (plants and pump stations)
o Schools and Students
o Tour Groups
• Industry
o Water/Wastewater Agencies
o Trade Organizations
o Trade Media
o Contractors and Consultants
• Influential Public
o Local, State, and Federal Elected Officials
o Environmental Groups
o Local Media
Agency Key Messages
• OC San is committed to protecting public health and the environment by providing
effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling.
• OC San is more than a wastewater treatment facility; we are a resource recovery facility
making use of all our byproducts.
• OC San is dedicated to exceeding wastewater quality standards used for resource
recovery.
• OC San is committed to proper planning to ensure that public funds are wisely spent.
• OC San’s assets are monitored and evaluated regularly to ensure top performance and
timely replacement.
• OC San values communicating our mission and strategies with those we serve and all
other stakeholders.
• OC San provides an essential service to 2.6 million people at one of the lowest rates in
the state.
• Providing reliable, responsive, and affordable services in line with our customer needs
and expectations is a top priority for OC San.
• OC San is committed to creating the best possible workforce, prioritizing safety,
productivity, customer service, and training.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
5
• OC San has diligently developed an integrated planning environment that starts with the
Board of Directors’ expectations and extends to each employee’s work product. We
strive to ensure our staff members communicate effectively and provide transparent
services to support the Plan.
• OC San has developed an integrated Planning/Asset Management system that allows for
intentional, thoughtful decision making to maintain current operations while adding
resilience and meeting new challenges.
• OC San’s organizational structure includes informal relationships between employees
that facilitate collaboration toward common goals.
Public Affairs’ Goals for Fiscal Year 2024/25 and 2025/26
1. Optimize communication with our internal audience.
2. Continue to build OC San’s reputation as leaders in the wastewater and resource
recovery industry.
3. Cultivate relationships with traditional and social media journalists and influencers to
promote OC San’s programs and initiatives.
4. Enhance OC San’s image and branding by utilizing proper messaging in external
communication pieces such as OC San’s website, presentations, digital media, and
advertising. Maintain a positive experience and image for our visitors.
5. Identify and implement avenues for education and outreach within OC San’s service
area to further promote OC San as a resource recovery agency, our mission, and career
opportunities within the wastewater industry.
6. Educate and inform the public on the various OC San initiatives aimed to protect the
environment such as What 2 Flush; Fats, Oil, and Grease; and any other necessary
message.
7. Develop and implement outreach programs that will engage the communities affected
by OC San’s construction projects.
8. Ensure proactive engagement in legislative advocacy efforts that could impact OC San
and the wastewater industry.
9. Monitor, track, and apply for grants available and that make business sense to OC San.
10. Ensure that elected officials, member agencies, stakeholders, and OC San Board
Members are actively engaged in the work of OC San.
11. Ensure the Public Affairs Office serves as the primary spokesperson for OC San during
normal business and crisis scenarios and facilitates the dissemination of information.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
6
To achieve these goals, PAO outlines the following strategies and tactics, along with the primary
staff assigned to each area. Although individual staff members are the key contacts for each of
the goals, the team works collectively and collaboratively, reflecting our core values. Our staff
acknowledges the key role we play at OC San, not only communicating information, but also
educating, consulting, and serving as a resource to our Board of Directors, employees, the
wastewater industry, our member agencies, and our community. Flexibility is implemented into
this plan to deal with unexpected situations and circumstances.
Public Affairs Strategies and Tactics
1. Category: Employee Engagement
Program Lead: Rebecca Long
Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Gregg Deterding, Isai Carrillo, and Cheryl Scott
Goal (what): Optimize communication and engagement with our internal audience to include
both field staff and administrative staff.
Objective (measure): Establish a base line of current engagement by tracking access and participation
from the identified tactics.
Strategy (why): We value open and honest communication with our employees. PAO is
committed to various efforts aimed at keeping OC San employees informed about important
topics, increasing the overall quality of communications to our employees while tying the
business aspects of the agency with the human-interest side.
Tactics (how):
• Keep information on The San Box current, relevant, and useful for OC San employees by
working with the various departments to gather information that should be shared.
• On a regular basis, staff will continue to support various departments with their
communication and outreach needs.
• PAO will produce six Pipeline newsletters per year with a goal of circulation by the third
week of the publication month.
• Incentivize employees to educate and inform the public of OC San’s essential service
through the Volunteer Incentive Program (VIP) by issuing points for all volunteer hours.
• Create employee recognition and celebratory events throughout the year, this may
include small in-person gatherings and virtual events. To include but not limited to the
Annual Holiday Lunch, the Harvest Festival, and VIP Celebration, etc.
• Continue with the Honor Walk program which acknowledges retired staff and past
Board Members for their contribution to OC San. The recognition event will be hosted
every other year starting in 2025.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
7
• Write and coordinate the 3 Things to Know email blast to be distributed to all staff each
Monday.
• Support and promote OC San “U”, OC San’s training program.
• Create “New Employee Welcome Kit” to be distributed on employees first day of work
to introduce employees to the OC San culture, include electronic communication with
key messages and link to important information.
• Create and implement an employee engagement audit to assess the value of the
information shared, the method used, and feedback on OC San’s culture.
o Conduct periodic surveys following employee events to allow for improvements
and/or modifications.
• Implement an employee art contest using OC San’s infrastructure.
2. Category: Industry Experts
Program Lead: Kelly Newell
Program Coordinator/Support: Public Affairs Specialist, Gregg Deterding, Isai Carrillo, and
Cheryl Scott
Goal (what): Establish and solidify OC San’s reputation as infrastructure leaders in the
wastewater and resource recovery industry.
Objective (measurable): Increase participation in strategic organizations through conferences,
networking activities and awards by five percent.
Strategy (why): To build positive public perception and confidence among our various
audiences.
Tactics (how):
• Encourage participation and presentation in conferences.
• Encourage and support award application submittals.
• Publicize and coordinate award acceptance logistics.
• Track all awards won by OC San by keeping a master list.
• Track and promote staff abstracts, and publications.
3. Category: Media Relations
Program Lead: Rebecca Long
Program Coordinators: Kelly Newell, Belen Carrillo, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott
Goal (what): Cultivate relationships with traditional and social media journalists and
influencers.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
8
Objective (measurement): Track and increase media coverage with positive stories about OC
San.
Strategy (why): While a presence in the community is important to putting a face to our agency,
media (traditional and social) is equally important with a broader reach and a more direct line
of communication.
Tactics (how):
• Annually update media list to stay current and fresh.
• Maintain a digital press kit.
• Build a calendar of news release topics of interest to the public and stakeholders.
• Invite media for a facility tour, including traditional and non-traditional media.
• Develop media strategies for important events, decisions, or actions.
e.g. CIP Campaign (see details in Category 6: Capital and Maintenance Outreach
• Weekly (3-5 times) social media posts about the happenings at OC San with focus on OC
San’s accomplishments and mission.
• Continue with social media campaigns # #OCSanCareers, #What2Flush, and those
currently supporting ongoing efforts.
4. Category: Agency Branding and Messaging
Program Lead: Belen Carrillo
Program Coordinators/Support: Gregg Deterding, Isai Carrillo, Kelly Newell, Public Affair
Specialist, and Cheryl Scott
Goal (what): Enhance OC San’s image and branding by utilizing proper messaging in external
communication pieces such as OC San’s website, presentations, digital media, advertising,
which includes maintaining a positive experience for OC San visitors.
Objective (measure): Continue with OC San’s branding campaign including updating collateral
material, signage, and promotional material as appropriate and as it is used. Maintain the
lobby(s) current and informative with relevant information, i.e., displays, awards case, etc.
Strategy (why): A cohesive voice, message, look, and feel are critical to the public perception
that an organization holds with its community. A positive and pleasant in-person experience
reinforces OC San’s culture and core values as well as showcasing OC San as industry leaders,
and a well-run organization, leaving behind the stigma of typical government agencies.
Tactics (how):
• Develop new website to better meet the information needs of our visitors while
meeting accessibility standards.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
9
• Maintain website accuracy, relevancy and timeliness with new stories posted weekly.
• Provide presentations, consultation, and advice on the branding and image of OC San.
• Develop new collateral materials around the key messages.
• Explore advertising options to inform the public of agency efforts and role in enhancing
the local economy.
• Fulfill all requests for graphics, photos, and logos.
• Continue with online community newsletter. Increase reach and distribution list.
• Update and maintain signage across OC San facilities.
• Develop a Board approved design for the hands-on educational display for the outdoor patio.
• Maintain the lobby wall in the Operations Center at Plant No. 2 with OC San’s current
branding and messaging and implement lobby display at the Headquarters.
• Rotate flags on light poles at Plant No. 1 and at Plant No. 2 on a biennial basis.
• Keep the award display up to date by rotating awards.
• Install a retiree display in the Headquarters and keep it up to date.
• Maintain and coordinate the installation of Honor Walk bricks on a biennial basis.
• Display collateral material in a neatly and organized manner displayed with current and
relevant information.
• Update a video library of OC San programs to utilize as educational and promotional
tools.
• Promote implementation of OC San’s permittee awards program that recognizes
industries for improving their adherence to excellent standards and expand to recognize
multi-year awardees. Identify methods to include waste haulers in recognition system.
5. Category: Educational Outreach
Program Lead: Belen Carrillo
Program Coordinators/Support: Kelly Newell, Public Information Specialist, Gregg Deterding,
Isai Carrillo, and Cheryl Scott
Goal (what): Identify and implement avenues for education and outreach within OC San’s
service area to promote OC San’s mission and vision.
Objective (measurement): Create and identify new educational opportunities including virtual
events and webinars to promote and educate the community on OC San’s work and the
essential service provided.
Strategies (why): To further promote OC San as a resource recovery agency, promote OC San’s
mission and promote career opportunities within the wastewater industry.
Tactics (how):
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
10
• Execute the Inside the Outdoors contract for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 to continue the
educational partnership that includes the Sewer Science program to 500 students within
Orange County and introduce them to OC San’s virtual tour program.
• Revise plant tours to incorporate Headquarters.
• Identify 8-10 community event opportunities for OC San to participate in to inform and
educate the community on the important role OC San plays in public health and the
environment.
• Expand OC San’s speaker’s bureau to provide a wider set of speakers available.
• Continue hosting Wastewater 101 Citizen Academy for our ratepayers, and influential
public to showcase OC San operations and initiatives. Host one session with four classes
per year.
• Support the Heritage Museum of Orange County’s educational efforts by supplying
material to be used for virtual and in-person teaching of OC San’s key messages.
• Connect with OC San service area libraries to identify possible OC San program
collaboration and implementation opportunities that would aim to. highlight selected
OC San messaging points such as What 2 Flush, the wastewater treatment process, and
career opportunities.
6. Category: Capital and Maintenance Outreach
Program Leads: Belen Carrillo and Tanya Chong from Engineering,
Program Coordinators/Support: Kelly Newell, Public Affairs Specialist, Rebecca Long, Gregg
Deterding, Isai Carrillo, Cheryl Scott,
Goal (what): Develop and implement outreach programs that will engage the communities
affected by OC San construction and maintenance activities.
Objective (measurement): Develop, implement, and provide outreach support for over 10
capital projects scheduled to break ground in fiscal years 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 in more
than 10 cities.
Strategy (why): Form a positive presence in the community prior to the start of construction
projects or maintenance activities that is personal and proactive. Provide impacted community
with information ahead of construction activities. Inform them of the benefits and need for the
project to gain support and understanding of the necessary construction.
Tactics (how):
• Proactively offer briefings and community meetings to impacted neighborhoods, civic
groups, businesses, schools, churches, and other institutions within the project area on
an as needed basis.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
11
• Explore the option of placing advertising pieces in communities/areas impacted by
construction.
• Respond to inquiries within a 24-hour period.
• Provide project description and notifications to impacted residents at least two weeks
before construction begins.
• Update collateral materials, fact sheets and website with current construction
information on an as needed basis.
• Maintain ongoing communications with city staff and Board Members on current and
upcoming construction outreach projects in affected cities.
• Maintain ongoing communications with impacted residents within the project area
through collateral material (e.g., flyers, door hangers, emails, text alerts, social media
posts, etc.).
• Measure customer satisfaction through a construction outreach survey to be distributed
at the close of construction programs.
• Provide outreach program training for the engineering team to help them understand the
outreach program, the role of the community liaison and benefits to project.
• Implement a multipronged outreach strategy that will include industry and media coverage for
the Supercritical Water Oxidation project.
7. Category: Legislative Affairs
Program Lead: Rebecca Long
Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Public Affairs Specialist, and Cheryl Scott
Goal (what): Proactive engagement in legislative advocacy efforts that could impact OC San and
the wastewater industry.
Objective (measure): Continue positive relationships with local, state, and federal officials
through facility tours, meetings, and bill tracking as stated in the Legislative Plan.
Strategy (why): Legislative advocacy is an important aspect of our business. Having
relationships and being actively involved, providing input and OC San’s perspective on potential
legislature can and does directly affect OC San and our business.
The PAO is responsible for executing the Board approved Legislative Plan, which is updated on
an annual basis. In addition, staff is responsible for tracking state and federal legislation,
managing OC San’s legislative advocates, and seeking appropriations and grants.
Tactics (how):
• Develop and implement Annual Legislative Plan in the second quarter of each fiscal
year.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
12
• Track bills and maintain a priority list of key legislation.
• Provide regular updates to the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee on state and
federal matters.
• Host legislative tours.
• Engage in Advocacy Days in Sacramento and Washington DC as needed.
• Take positions on bills that could affect OC San or the industry.
• Work with industry organizations on state and federal issues to ensure OC San’s
positions are communicated.
• Partner with industry organizations to co-host virtual events and activities.
• Manage the legislative advocates’ contracts and facilitate regular communication
between lobbyists, staff, and the Board of Directors.
8. Category: Grants Coordination
Program Lead: Rebecca Long
Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Public Affairs Specialist, and Cheryl Scott
Goal (what): Monitor, track, and apply for grants available to OC San.
Objective (measure): Apply and obtain grants for qualified OC San projects and programs.
Strategy (why): Outside funding is important in moving OC San projects and programs forward.
With ongoing attention to government spending, it is vital for OC San to apply for and secure
grants to offset costs when available.
Tactics (how):
• Apply for two grants a year based on availability.
• Ensure Grant Policy is updated and current.
• Research grant opportunities and report out to the Legislative and Public Affairs
Committee.
• Seek out available grant funding opportunities for OC San and its various divisions.
• Secure letters of support.
• Publicize grant awards received.
• Create and measure outcomes.
9. Category: Local Government Affairs
Program Lead: Rebecca Long and Belen Carrillo
Program Coordinators/Support: All PAO staff
Goal (what): Ensure that local elected officials, member agencies, stakeholders, and OC San
Board Members are actively engaged in the work of OC San.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
13
Objective (measure): Provide at least two communication tools per month.
Strategy (why): Keeping OC San’s influential public engaged in OC San’s projects and
accomplishments are critical to the support and success of our agency.
Tactics (how):
• Provide Board of Directors with speaking points following every OC San board meeting
that can be used when reporting back to their respective councils and community
groups.
• Support an orientation (as needed) for new Board members.
• Develop and keep a current list of monthly informational presentations.
• Maintain an informational presentation video library for the Board of Directors on key
agency topics.
• Provide regular reports to the Steering Committee.
• Develop OC San’s Annual Report.
• Publish a Five Minutes Per Month, each month.
• Participate in government affairs committees.
• Invite new council and board members within OC San’s service area to take a tour of OC
San and offer presentations to their respective agencies on OC San programs and
efforts.
• Create and distribute quarterly outreach tool kits for member agency PIOs to help them
easily share and disseminate information about OC San.
• Host a “State of OC San” event for influential leaders throughout the infrastructure and
water/wastewater industry, including virtual option.
10. Category: Crisis Management
Program Lead: Rebecca Long
Program Coordinators/Support: All PAO Staff
Goal: Ensure the PAO serves as the primary spokesperson for OC San during normal business
and crisis scenarios and facilitates the dissemination of information.
Objective: Ensure that the PIOs in the PAO can respond in a crisis. Provide the necessarily tools
and material to follow established protocols and support the situation as needed.
Strategy: It is imperative during a crisis that OC San be proactive and provide clear and effective
messaging to employees, public, and the media.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
14
Tactics (how):
• Maintain an updated crisis communication plan including regular briefings with staff to
identify possible issues and responses.
• Maintain and update PAO’s Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP).
• Work with Risk and Safety Management on Public Affair’s role in an emergency,
including our role via the Integrated Emergency Response Plan.
• Ensure proper procedures are in place for Board, employees, and public notification.
• Maintain updated contact lists for resource, member, and partnering agencies to
coordinate and assist during crisis.
• Develop protocols on everyday PAO tasks to facilitate the operations of the group in a
time of crisis.
11. Category: General Manager Support
Program Lead: Daisy Covarrubias / Rebecca Long
Program Coordinators/Support: All PAO Staff
Goal: Ensure the General Manager and Assistant General Managers are supported with
information necessary to communicate to the varied OC San audiences.
Objective: Develop monthly communication pieces on behalf of the General Manager. Ensure
General Manager (or designee) is participating and involved in promoting OC San’s initiatives.
Strategy: Collaborate with the General Manager to prepare communication and messaging that
reflects the mission and vision of OC San.
Tactics (how):
• Assist the General Manager and the Assistant General Managers with keeping the Board
Members informed and up to date with OC San activities.
• Assist in the development of the General Manager’s Monthly Report.
• Develop talking points for Board and Committee meetings.
• Develop material and speaking points for presentations and speaking engagements.
• Support the development of the OC San Strategic Plan.
• Assist in the development of the General Manager’s Annual Work Plan, including mid-
year and end of year reports.
• Manage Ask the GM questions submitted.
• Coordinate and support VIP tours guided by General Manager and Assistant General
Manager.
• Coordinate and produce annual All Hands meetings (live and/or pre-recorded) to keep
employees informed and engaged.
PAO Strategic Plan FY 2024-26
June 2024
15
Closing Comments
This plan is a broad outline of the Public Affairs Office program. As new issues arise, new
functions and duties will evolve as well. The role of the Public Affairs Office is to stay ahead of
issues, be responsive and flexible to meet the needs of the agency. We will adjust our program
accordingly.
New Tactics Introduced
• OC San new website – In progress
• Library Educational Program
• Headquarters Educational Display – Phase 2
• Library Educational Program
• Video Library Update
• Employee Engagement Audit
• New Employee Welcome Kit
• Employee Art Contest
A Selection of Projects Completed in
Fiscal Years 2024-25 and 2025-26
Public AffairsPortfolio
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3
MEET THE TEAM
Jennifer CabralCommunications Manager
Kelly NewellPublic Affairs Specialist
Daisy CovarrubiasPublic Affairs Supervisor Rebecca LongPrincipal Public Affairs Specialist
Gregg DeterdingGraphics Designer
Belen Carrillo
Senior Public Affairs Specialist
Cheryl ScottAdministrative AssistantIsai CarrilloGraphics Designer
Becky PolcynPublic Affairs Specialist
4
Branding 5
Internal Projects 12
External Projects 22
TABLE OF CONTENTS
5
BRANDING
6
BRANDINGLogo Design
OC San Program - RISE
OC San’s Intranet - The San Box
OC San Employee Engagement Program - Community Corner
7
Light Pole Banners
BRANDINGEnvironmental Design
8
BRANDINGEnvironmental Design
Headquarters IT Service Desk Wall
9
Headquarters Artifact Wall
BRANDINGEnvironmental Design
10
Water Dispenser wall art
BRANDINGEnvironmental Design
11
Headquarters Lobby Digital Display
FOGFATS, OILS, AND GREASE
Never pour FOG down the drain.
Learn more at ocsan.gov
Stay Connected. Follow Us@OCSanDistrict
“FLUSHABLE” WIPES ARE NOT FLUSHABLE
WIPES AND PHARMACEUTICALS BELONG IN THE TRASHLearn more at ocsan.gov
Learn more at ocsan.gov
BRANDINGEnvironmental Design
12
EXTERNAL
PROJECTS
13
EXTERNAL PROJECTSOC San Connection - Community Newsletter
OC San Connection
Summer 2025
published by the orange county sanitation district
community newsletter
Shining Bright Like FireworksHow OC San Generates Its Own Energy
P. 4
OC San Connection
Fall 2025
published by the orange county sanitation district
community newsletter
Big Pipes, Big History
OC San Unveils Full-Scale Pipe Display
P. 6
14
happening in the CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
Sign up for project alerts: www.ocsan.gov/baybridge
Replacing the old with the
new – OC San is coming
soon to Coast Highway
STARTING THIS SUMMER!2025-2029
a construction project by OC SAN
Pump Station and Force Mains Replacement Project
BAY BRIDGE
Replacing the old with the new — OC San is coming soon to Coast Highway
EXTERNAL PROJECTSConstruction Outreach
Construction Project “Movie” Poster
15
3 Cities.3 Cities.
7 Miles of Regional Pipeline.
100 Manholes.
CITY OF
CYPRESS
CITY OF
LA PALMA
CITY OF
LOS ALAMITOS
Cypress Trunk Sewer Project
Visit ocsan.gov/cypress to learn more.
Starting Summer 2025 and lasting
approximately 3 years.
1 Project.
EXTERNAL PROJECTSConstruction Outreach
Construction Project “Movie” Poster
16
EXTERNAL PROJECTSConstruction Outreach
Construction Project “Movie” Poster
17
Web Newsletter Header
CONSTRUCTION IN CYPRESS!
Postcard
EXTERNAL PROJECTSConstruction Outreach
18
EXTERNAL PROJECTSSocial Media
19
Brian
Bingman
Mike
McCarthy
Yu-Li
Tsai
Jim
Herberg
Greg
Sebourn
H O N O R I N G
SCAN TO RSVP or emailForinformation@ocsan.gov by Wednesday, June 18.
e Honor Wall recognizes past board members and sta for their signi cant contributions to the quality of operations and leadership.
Honorees will be memorialized on a wall outside
of OC San Headquarters in Fountain Valley.
18480 Bandilier Cir, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 | 714.962.2411 | www.ocsan.gov
O R A N G E C O U N T Y S A N I T A T I O N D I S T R I C T
Dr. Yu-Li Tsai dedicated nearly 30 years of his career to OC San, becoming a renowned technical expert, visionary leader, and mentor whose impact continues to shape the organization today. His work in the lab, particularly his pioneering efforts in molecular methods like Polymerase Chain Reaction for detecting
wastewater viruses, earned him over 75 peer-reviewed publications and solidified his position as a leader in the wastewater industry.
Dr. Tsai’s most significant achievement was his instrumental role in securing the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP)
accreditation for OC San’s laboratory, making it the first municipal lab in California to achieve this distinction in 2017. His leadership and persistence led to OC San’s early adoption of the TNI Standard, elevating the lab’s quality assurance practices and ensuring the reliability and defensibility of its data.
As a mentor, Dr. Tsai inspired and supported many within OC San, guiding colleagues through technical challenges, career advancements, and professional growth. His service extended beyond OC San, influencing the next generation of environmental scientists at UC Irvine and his lasting contributions to OC San.
His dedication to scientific excellence, and commitment to the community make him so worthy to receive this honor.
H O N O R I N G
Yu-Li Tsai, Ph.D.
76
EXTERNAL PROJECTSEvent Branding
Headquarters Lobby Digital Display
Brochure
Wall Graphic
Invitation
20
Invitation
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICTState of OC San
Join our Board of Directors and General Manager as we discuss our accomplishments and exciting advances.
An optional tour of our Fountain Valley Plant No. 1 will take place immediately following the event.
Mile Square Golf Course Clubhouse10401 Warner AvenueFountain Valley, CA 92708
For more information or questions, email: forinformation@ocsan.gov
Friday, October 2511 a.m. – 1 p.m.
YOU’RE INVITED!
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
Lunch and Networking
Welcome and State of OC San Presentation Board Chairman, Ryan Gallagher
Facility tour immediately following program. A bus will be available to take you to our OC San Reclamation Plant No. 1.
10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
State of OC San
Friday, October 2511 a.m. – 1 p.m.
P R O G R A M
SCAN HERE to view the Fiscal Year 23/24 OC San Annual Report
Program
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
State of OC San
Welcome to
Signage
State of OC San
ADRIANAGODINEZ
Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board
Name Tag
Protecting Public Health
and the Environment
Giveaway - Coaster
EXTERNAL PROJECTSEvent Branding
21
EXTERNAL PROJECTSEvent Branding
Presented by the OC San Board of Directors.
Joaquin Esquivel, Chair of the State Water Resources Control Board, will serve as the distinguished guest speaker.
Optional Plant tour following program.
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICTStateof OC San
Friday, October 17, 2025
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
LOCATION: OC San Headquarters 18480 Bandilier Circle, Fountain Valley, CA
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS, EMAIL US AT FORINFORMATION@OCSAN.GOV.
Event is free, registration is required.
Lunch and Networking
Call Meeting to Order Board Chair, Ryan Gallagher
Welcome and State of OC San Board Chair, Ryan Gallagher
Guest Speaker Joaquin Esquivel, State Water Resources Control Board
Adjourn Meeting Board Chair, Ryan Gallagher
Plant tour immediately following the event
Friday, October 17, 202511 a.m. - 1 p.m.
P R O G R A M
Luncheon
State of OC San
SCAN HERE To view the Fiscal Year 2024/25 OC San Annual Report
Invitation Program
Luncheon
State of OC San
Welcome
Luncheon
State of OC San
SCAN HERE to view the Fiscal Year 24/25 OC San Annual Report
Signage
22
Pipe Display
EXTERNAL PROJECTSEnvironmental Design
23
Pipe Display Placards
EXTERNAL PROJECTSEnvironmental Design
24
INTERNAL
PROJECTS
25
INTERNAL PROJECTSPipeline - Employee Newsletter
YOUR SOURCE FOR OC SAN NEWS AND INFORMATION
September/ September/ October2024
Travel Through Time ...........................P2Under Construction .............................P5Department Profile ..............................P6Shining Stars ..........................................P12Community Connections ................P14State of OC San .....................................P15Health Fair ...............................................P15
The Best Of OC San ............................P16Celebrating Years Of Service ........P18And The Award Goes To .................P20Cold Weather Care ............................P22Welcome To The Team....................P23On The Move .........................................P24Service Awards ....................................P24
Inside this Issue:
YOUR SOURCE FOR OC SAN NEWS AND INFORMATION
January/February2025
YOUR SOURCE FOR OC SAN NEWS AND INFORMATION
July/August2024
Inside this Issue:
Summer Memories ...............................P2Under Construction .............................P4Department Profile ..............................P6New EMT Member ..............................P10Two Year Budget .................................P12GM’s Year End Report .......................P13
Goodbye Nerissa .................................P14The Best Of OC San ............................P16Celebrating Years Of Service ........P18And The Award Goes To .................P20Welcome To The Team....................P23On The Move .........................................P24
SummerSummerEndless
26
INTERNAL PROJECTSPipeline - Employee Newsletter
YOUR SOURCE FOR OC SAN NEWS AND INFORMATION
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER2025
YOUR SOURCE FOR OC SAN NEWS AND INFORMATION
JULY/AUGUST2025
This year’s Take Your kid to Work daY
was the biggest one yet!
On Wednesday, July 30, OC San proudly welcomed over 200 children to our Headquarters for a fun-filled and educational day.
YOUR SOURCE FOR OC SAN NEWS AND INFORMATION
MARCH/APRIL2026
Gold Award: Erika Rizk, Plant Operator (Div. 830) — Control Center Drawing
Read more on page 15.Erika R.
GOLDWINNER
EMPLOYEEART CONTEST
27
INTERNAL PROJECTSEvent Branding
Logo
Certificate
Picture Backdrop
Table Tent
28
Logo and Background Graphic
INTERNAL PROJECTSEvent Branding
29
Signage
Event Map
INTERNAL PROJECTSEvent Branding
30
Headquarters Lobby Digital Display
Photo Booth Frame Giveaway - Pencil Pouch
INTERNAL PROJECTSEvent Branding
31
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EMPLOYEEART CONTEST
OC Sn Pnt No. 1Tricking Fiter
BRONZEWINNER
S YL FO S
Erika R.
OC Sn Pnt No. 1Contro Center
GOLDWINNER
EMPLOYEEART CONTESTS YL FO S
Eti T.
Rg B Remov
SILVERWINNER
EMPLOYEEART CONTESTS YL FO S
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OC Sn Pnt No. 1Contro Center
GOLDWINNER
EMPLOYEEART CONTESTS YL FO S
Eti T.
Rg B Remov
SILVERWINNER
EMPLOYEEART CONTESTS YL FO S
Lo
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S YL FO S
BRONZE WINNER
LourdesLuna
ART CONTEST
S YL FO S
SILVER WINNER
Eti Taula
ART CONTEST
S YL FO S
GOLD WINNER
ErikaRizk
Get creative and showcase the often-unseen beauty of our infrastructure and operations. From pipes and pumps to clarifiers and digesters, this contest is all about highlighting the pride, creativity, and craftsmanship behind the work we do every day.
S YL FO S
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SUBMISSION PERIODFEB. 9-20Visit The San Box formore information.
A-Frame Certificates
Artwork Placards
INTERNAL PROJECTSEvent Branding
32
HolidayLuncheon
SAVE THE DATE
Holiday Table Tent Signage
Bridge Banner
INTERNAL PROJECTSEvent Branding
33
INTERNAL PROJECTSEnvironmental Design
Wall Graphic
34
BRANDING PROJECTSPromotional Items
35
2024
Asset Management Plan
Program
Year
2023 - 2024
Marine Monitoring
ANNUAL REPORT
EXTERNAL PROJECTSReports Cover Designs
36
2025
AssetManagement Plan 2026
BOARD OF DIRECTORS’Guide toBusiness
EXTERNAL PROJECTSReports Cover Designs
37
Investment Policy Adopted December 17, 2025
2025
Marine Monitoring
ANNUAL REPORT
Program
Year
2024 - 2025
EXTERNAL PROJECTSReports Cover Designs
38
2023/24
A N N U A L R E P O R T
O r a n g e C o u n t y S a n i t a t i o n D i s t r i c t
Years of Environmental Excellence
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
EXTERNAL PROJECTSReports Cover Designs
39
20
2
5
BIOSOLIDS MANAGEMENT COMPLIANCE REPORT
EPA 40 CFR Part 503
Orange County Sanitation District
BudgetSummary
Orange County Sanitation District, California
26-27FISCAL YEARS
27-28
EXTERNAL PROJECTSFull Report Designs
40
Driven by our Mission,
Powered by Innovation
A N N U A L
R E P O R T
EXTERNAL PROJECTSFull Report Designs
Page left intentionally blank
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07/2026
PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE18480 Bandilier Circle | Fountain Valley, CA 92708
www.ocsan.gov | forinformation@ocsan.gov | Follow us on social media @OCSanDistrict
7/1/2026
1
Public Affairs Strategic Plan
FY 2024-26 Summary
Presented by:
Jennifer Cabral, Director of Communications
Daisy Covarrubias, Public Affairs Supervisor
Administration Committee
July 8, 2026
Public
Affairs
Team
2
*Pr. Staff Analyst and VIPS
1
2
7/1/2026
2
•Employee Engagement
•Industry Experts
•Media Relations
•Agency Branding and
Messaging
•Educational Outreach
•Capital and Maintenance Outreach
•Legislative Affairs
What We Do
3
•Grant Coordination
•Local Government Affairs
•Crisis Management
•General Manager Support
What We Do
4
3
4
7/1/2026
3
Highlights from Fiscal Years 2024-2026
5
Overall, the District does an
excellent job of communicating
with employees…
Building on Success
6
5
6
7/1/2026
4
New Initiatives
7
More New Initiatives
8
7
8
7/1/2026
5
OC San’s New Video Library
9
•FY 2026-2028 Public Affairs Strategic Plan
•Building Trust
•Strengthening Partnerships
•Advancing OC San's Mission
Looking Ahead
10
9
10
7/1/2026
6
Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years
2024 –2026 Summary.
Recommendation
11
11
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-4999 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:6.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Jennifer Cabral, Director of Communications
SUBJECT:
LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE 2026
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of June 2026.
BACKGROUND
The Orange County Sanitation District’s (OC San)legislative affairs program includes advocating for
policy and legislative priorities,sponsoring legislation (where appropriate),and seeking local,state,
and federal funding for projects and programs.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program
·Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders
·Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators,stakeholders,and
neighboring communities
PROBLEM
Without ongoing legislative engagement,elected officials may not be aware of OC San’s mission,
programs,and projects,or how proposed legislation may impact OC San operations and
infrastructure planning.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Continue to work with Local,State,and Federal officials to advocate for OC San’s interests and help
identify,monitor,and respond to legislation and grant opportunities that benefit OC San,the
wastewater industry,and the community.To strengthen relationship building efforts,OC San will
continue to engage elected officials through facility tours,one-on-one meetings,and outreach trips to
Washington D.C. and Sacramento.
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 6/30/2026Page 1 of 2
powered by Legistar™
File #:2026-4999 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:6.
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
If OC San does not actively engage with Local,State,and Federal elected officials,legislation could
be enacted that adversely impacts OC San and the wastewater industry.Additionally,a lack of
engagement may result in missed funding opportunities.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Activities in June:
·On June 12,staff participated in the California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA)
State Legislative Committee to discuss proposed and current legislation,including potential
impacts on OC San and other wastewater agencies.
Upcoming Activities in July:
·OC San staff,subject matter experts,and lobbyists have started the process of updating the
2027 OC San Legislative and Regulatory Plan and will continue throughout the next couple of
months.The Plan is a guiding document that is presented annually to the Board of Directors
for adoption. Staff will present a draft plan to the Administration Committee in October 2026.
·OC San staff and lobbyists will continue their work on the September 18 State of OC San
luncheon event,which is slated to take place at OC San Headquarters.Invitations will go out
in August.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
N/A
CEQA
N/A
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
All items mentioned are included in OC San’s FY 2026-27 Adopted Budget.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·Federal Legislative Update
·Federal Matrix
·State Legislative Update
·State Matrix
·Local Legislative Update
·Presentation
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 6/30/2026Page 2 of 2
powered by Legistar™
ENS Resources, Inc.
1367 Connecticut Avenue N.W./Suite 310
Washington, D.C. 20036 / Telephone (202) 466-3755
www.ensresources.com
TO: Orange County Sanitation District
FROM: Eric Sapirstein
DATE: June 19, 2026
SUBJECT: Washington Update
Over the past month, congressional and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(USEPA) activities have advanced several policy and regulatory priorities of interest
to OC San. The USEPA Administrator Lee Zeldin held a joint briefing with the
Department of Health and Human Services Secretary RFK, Jr. to outline a
commitment to address PFAS impacts on public health and the environment. In
tandem with the briefing, the USEPA published two proposed per- and
polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) rules. The first would extend the water agency
treatment compliance deadline for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and
perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) maximum contaminant levels to 2031 from the
current 2029 deadline. The extension would be based on a review of a water
agency’s circumstances. The second rule would rescind drinking water standards
for four additional PFAS compounds and GEN-X (GenX is a trade name for a
synthetic chemical belonging to PFAS class.
In Congress, progress on the Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations occurred in the House
as the Committee on Appropriations approved USEPA’s budget, clearing the bill for
House floor action later this spring. As approved on a party line vote EPA would be
cut by approximately 20 percent below the FY 2026 enacted level.
Separately, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) testified before the
House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology on growing concerns over
cybersecurity threats to the water sector. Lastly, efforts to legislate passive
receivers liability protections for the water sector related to EPA’s designation of
PFAS under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act (CERCLA) continues. Members on the House and Senate committees
with jurisdiction over CERCLA are attempting to develop a passive receivers liability
exemption. If successful, agencies like OC San, would be protected from frivolous
litigation from Potentially Responsible Parties that seek to shift PFAS clean-up
burdens on to the public simply because an agency had to treat the PFAS
contaminated wastewaters.
ENS Resources, Inc.
1367 Connecticut Avenue N.W./Suite 310
Washington, D.C. 20036 / Telephone (202) 466-3755
www.ensresources.com
The following summarizes key issues of interest.
FY 2027 Appropriations: EPA Water Infrastructure Programs
The House Committee on Appropriations approved EPA’s FY27 spending bill. The
bill would cut EPA by approximately $1.8 billion (twenty percent) below the
enacted FY26 level. Despite the overall EPA reduction, the bill retains grant funding
flowing directly to states and tribes for water infrastructure and continues
Community Project Funding for EPA Clean Water and Drinking Water State
Revolving Fund (SRF) projects. Although the overall SRF account would be reduced
by approximately $100 million, the committee agreed to provide $2 billion for the
FY27 SRF Capitalization Grants Account. However, as part of the committee action,
the SRF would fund Community Project Requests providing $506 million for water
and $526 million wastewater projects, reducing the SRF capitalization grants by like
amounts.
Importance of Committee Action
While OC San does not rely upon the SRF, the continued funding maintains the
federal partnership to support communities meet federal water quality mandates.
For California, if the funding level is enacted, the State would receive approximately
$72 million in SRF Capitalization Grant assistance in the coming fiscal year.
EPA Preparing to Issue Biosolids Land Application Guidance and Effluent
Limitation Guidelines for Industry Related to PFAS
The Office of Water is expected to issue guidance to the States on how to set
standards to address PFAS in biosolids. The guidance reportedly will provide for a
tiered approach to set acceptable levels of PFAS that may be present in biosolids and
establish a scientifically defensible approach to managing continued land
application of biosolids while protecting public health and the environment.
The EPA is also preparing to issue long delayed effluent limitation guidelines
(ELG’s)that would require industrial dischargers to treat for PFAS before
discharging effluent. The expectation is the ELG’s would lead to source control of
PFAS and reduce the presence in wastewaters that agencies like OC San must treat.
Importance of Guidance and ELG’s
EPA’s anticipated actions are important for two reasons. First, the biosolids land
application guidance will bring clarity on how to assess risk assessments related to
land application. The original draft Risk Assessment Model that was issued in the
final two weeks of the Biden Administration received more than 24,000 public
comments. Many of the comments cited the model’s deficiencies and lack of sound
science upon which biosolids management decisions would be made. The issuance
of ELG’s will for the first time put in place standards to reduce PFAS wastewater
discharges from industry. When finalized, the ELG’s should support efforts to
reduce the burden and costs imposed on wastewater agencies to treat these sources
of PFAS.
ENS Resources, Inc.
1367 Connecticut Avenue N.W./Suite 310
Washington, D.C. 20036 / Telephone (202) 466-3755
www.ensresources.com
EPA PFAS Drinking Water Rule: Proposed Rescission and Compliance Extension
On May 18, the EPA announced two proposed rules under the Safe Drinking Water
Act related to PFAS in drinking water. In taking this action, EPA stated that it would
re-examine the need to regulate the PFAS compounds once the rules are finalized.
The first proposed rule would roll back or rescind the drinking water maximum
contaminant levels (MCLs) for four PFAS compounds established under the Biden
Administration’s April 2024 National Primary Drinking Water Regulation
perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA),
hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA, commonly known as GenX). As
part of this action, the agency would rescind the Hazard Mixture Index (Index)that
would have set a treatment standard for any mixture of these three PFAS and other
future chemicals. EPA stated that the prior rule failed to follow the statutory
requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act in establishing the standards. Under
the law, the agency must regulate on a chemical by chemical basis and not the novel
Index approach that the Biden EPA relied upon to issue the MCL.
The second proposed rule upholds the existing 4 parts per trillion MCL for PFOA and
PFOS that EPA also issued under the Biden EPA. However, EPA is now proposing to
allow public water systems to apply for a two-year compliance extension, extending
the compliance deadline from 2029 to 2031.
Regardless of the court challenge EPA has scheduled a virtual public hearing on July
7, 2026, to receive verbal comments. The public hearing will address both rules.
The deadline to pre-register to provide verbal comment is July 1, 2026.
Importance of EPA Actions
EPA’s decision to rescind the standards related to additional PFAS chemicals is
important. It recognizes the agency failed to follow the law in relying upon a
“hazard mixture index” approach to set a treatment standard. If the rescission
withstands expected court challenges, it will require documented science on the
public health threats from each chemical. The other action includes reaffirming the
4 parts per trillion MCL for PFOS and PFOA, to allow for an extended compliance
date of an additional two years is important because if a water agency can make a
compelling case for additional time, it would help to address affordability impacts.
Water Sector Cybersecurity: Congressional Hearing and GAO Testimony
On May 21, 2026, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) testified before the
House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology’s Subcommittee on the
Environment at a hearing titled “Research-Driven Resilience: Applying Science to
Secure U.S. Water Systems from Cyber Threats.” GAO testified that threat actors,
including state-sponsored hackers and criminal groups, are increasingly capable of
cyberattacks on water systems, in part because operational technologies that
control valves, pumps, and other physical infrastructure are increasingly connected
to internet-enabled devices. GAO also noted that gaps in EPA’s capacity to assess
and support water sector cybersecurity needs.
GAO warned directly in its testimony that the proposed reductions to the
Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security
Agency budget may limit the federal government’s ability to support water and
wastewater system resilience and cybersecurity efforts.
ENS Resources, Inc.
1367 Connecticut Avenue N.W./Suite 310
Washington, D.C. 20036 / Telephone (202) 466-3755
www.ensresources.com
Importance of GAO Testimony
Water and wastewater agencies are facing growing cybersecurity requirements
under the America’s Water Infrastructure Act, while federal resources that support
threat assessment and remediation efforts face potential reductions. Recent GAO
testimony underscored the water sector’s vulnerability to cyberattacks and the
importance of maintaining robust cybersecurity defenses for critical infrastructure.
As Senator Schiff develops water sector legislation, there is an opportunity to
provide targeted funding and resources that would help utilities meet federal
requirements and strengthen cybersecurity resilience.
Copy of OC San Federal Legislative Update
July 2026
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
S. 4603
Golden Mussel Eradication and
Control Act of 2026
No Priority No Stance
Summary: S. 4603 would create a pilot program to investigate the availability
of control and eradication technologies to address the growing threats from
the Golden Mussel. A task force would be created to develop the
demonstration program that would conduct R&D into impacts upon fisheries,
water quality, and ecosystems. The task force would also support development
of control and eradication methods and plans to address impacts upon public
infrastructure among other matters. The program would be targeted to
Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and other waters as determined by the task
force.
Introduced: 05/20/2026
Sponsor: Sen. Adam Schiff CA
Latest Actions:
05/20/2026 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and
Public Works.
05/20/2026 - Introduced in Senate
Committees: Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
Why it matters: S.4603 is the Senate approach to the investigation and mitigation efforts
to address the invasive Golden Mussel that threatens wastewater and water agencies'
infrastructure. S. 4603 is similar to H.R.3717 introduced by Harder (D-CA).
Outlook: Senate action on the bill is considered highly likely either as a stand alone
measure or incorporation into a broader Water Resources Development Act or Clean
Water/Safe Drinking Water Acts reauthorization.
Why it matters: The legislation would provide important protection to water and wastewater
agencies against third party litigation seeking to secure cost contributions for cleanups that
involve PFAS contamination. Absent an explicit liability protection provision such agencies
would be exposed to liability simply because an agency treated water and wastewater that
contained PFAS chemicals and disposed of residuals and biosolids.
Outlook: H.R. 1267 represents a placeholder bill to address the water sector's concerns
over the potential liability created by USEPA's designation of PFAS as a hazardous
substance under CERCLA. Both the House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over
CERCLA have expressed interest in addressing PFAS liability. We expect that
congressional action could later this summer on H.R. 1267 or other initiatives that would
address nuisance litigation.
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
H.R. 1285
Water Infrastructure
Subcontractor and Taxpayer
Protection Act of 2025
No Priority No Stance
Summary: H.R. 1285 would amend the Water Infrastructure Finance and
Innovation Act of 2014. The key points: Payment and Performance Security
Requirements: The bill establishes new requirements for payment and
performance security for projects funded under the act. Project Funding:
Ensure that projects financed through the Water Infrastructure Finance and
Innovation Act have adequate financial safeguards.
Introduced: 02/13/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Mike Bost IL-12
Latest Actions:
02/13/2025 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and
Environment.
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
H.R. 1267
Water Systems PFAS Liability
Protection Act
High Priority Support
AI Summary: The Water Systems PFAS Liability Protection Act exempts water
and wastewater treatment facilities from CERCLA liability for releases of
certain perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, provided they comply
with applicable laws and regulations.
Introduced: 02/12/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez WA-03
Latest Actions:
02/12/2025 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and
Environment.
02/12/2025 - Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in
addition to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period …
02/12/2025 - Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in
addition to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period …
Committees: House Energy and Commerce Committee, House Transportation
and Infrastructure Committee, House Transportation and Infrastructure
Committee Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee
02/13/2025 - Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to b…
02/13/2025 - Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to b…
Committees: House Energy and Commerce Committee, House Transportation
and Infrastructure Committee, House Transportation and Infrastructure
Committee Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
S. 857
Water Conservation Rebate Tax
Parity Act
No Priority No Stance
Summary: Amends federal tax law so that homeowners would not need to pay
income tax when they receive rebates from water utilities for water
conservation and water runoff management improvements. S. 857.
Introduced: 03/05/2025
Sponsor: Sen. John Curtis UT
Latest Actions:
03/05/2025 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.
03/05/2025 - Introduced in Senate
Committees: Senate Finance Committee
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
H.R. 2269
WIPPES Act
High Priority Support
Summary: H.R. 2269 would direct the Federal Trade Commission to estabilsh
federal "Do Not Flush" labeling requirements for nonflushable wet wipes
packaging. The labeling requirements would be enacted one year after the
bill's enactment. The bill mirrors California's state labeling law and is
supported by clean water, industry, environmental advocates, and civil
engineer stakeholders. Senate companion legislation is S. 1092.
Introduced: 03/21/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Lisa McClain MI-09
Latest Actions:
06/24/2025 - Received in the Senate.
06/23/2025 - Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without
objection.
06/23/2025 - On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by
voice vote. (text: CR H2852-2853)
Committees: House Energy and Commerce Committee
Why it matters: H.R. 2269 provides a source control solution to the problem of the flushing of
nonflushable wipes that will reduce costs associated with fixing damaged treatment
infrastructure for wastewater utilities. The labeling requirements compliment existing "Do Not
Flush" labeling state law. Rep. Lou Correa is a co-sponsor. OC San continues to publicly
support the effort and has sent support letters to the delegation this Congress.
Outlook: Final passage of the WIPPES Act is anticipated with the House accepting the
Senate passed version to avoid the need for a formal conference committee that would
delay final enactment. (see S. 1092 below)
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
S. 1092
WIPPES Act
High Priority Support
Summary: S.1092 would direct the Federal Trade Commission to estabilsh
federal "Do Not Flush" labeling requirements for nonflushable wet wipes
packaging. The labeling requirements would be enacted one year after the
bill's enactment. The bill mirrors California's state labeling law and is
supported by clean water, industry, environmental advocates, and civil
engineer stakeholders. House companion legislation is HR 2269.
Introduced: 03/24/2025
Sponsor: Sen. Jeff Merkley OR
Latest Actions:
03/24/2026 - Held at the desk.
03/24/2026 - Received in the House.
03/24/2026 - Message on Senate action sent to the House.
Committees: Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee
Why it matters: S. 1092 provides a source control solution to the problem of the flushing of
nonflushable wipes that will reduce costs associated with fixing damaged treatment
infrastructure for wastewater utilities. The labeling requirements compliment existing "Do Not
Flush" labeling state law. Senator Alex Padilla is an original co-sponsor. OC San continues to
publicly support the effort and has sent support letters to the delegation this Congress.
Outlook: S. 1092 passed the Seante by unanimous consent. The bill was referred to the
House. House action to accept the Senate version of the WIPPES Act is anticipated.
House acceptance of the Senate-passed version could occur in June/July. (See above)
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
H.R. 2344
Water ISAC Threat Protection
Act
No Priority No Stance
Summary: Would establish a program to enhance the preparedness and
resilience of drinking water and wastewater systems against various threats.
The bill's primary focus is on safeguarding these critical utilities from risks
such as natural disasters, cyberattacks, and other vulnerabilities that could
disrupt essential water services.
Introduced: 03/25/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Jan Schakowsky IL-09
Latest Actions:
03/25/2025 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and
Environment.
03/25/2025 - Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to b…
03/25/2025 - Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to b…
Committees: House Energy and Commerce Committee, House Transportation
and Infrastructure Committee, House Transportation and Infrastructure
Committee Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
S. 1118
Water Intelligence, Security, and
Cyber Threat Protection Act of
2025
No Priority No Stance
Summary: S. 1118 would provide funding and additional access for clean
water and wastewater utilities to become members of the Water Information
Sharing and Analysis Center (WaterISAC). The WaterISAC is a critical source
of information and best practices for water systems to protect against,
mitigate, and respond to threats. House Companion bill H.R. 2344. Endorsed by
American Water Works Association, Association of Metropolitan Water
Agencies, National Association of Clean Water Agencies, National Association
of Water Companies, and Water Environment Federation.
Introduced: 03/25/2025
Sponsor: Sen. Ed Markey MA
Latest Actions:
03/25/2025 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and
Public Works.
03/25/2025 - Introduced in Senate
Committees: Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
Why it matters: H.R. 3898 represents a comprehensive Clean Water Act permitting reform bill.
Key provisions:
• mandates 10 year NPDES permits
• codifies exemption from WOTUS definition for wastewater and water storage facilities
• expedites review and approval of section 404 permit applications (dredge and fill)
• provides ten year general permits for dredge and fill activities with requirement for 2 year
advanced notification if permit not to be renewed
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
H.R. 3184
PFAS Alternatives Act
No Priority No Stance
AI Summary: The bill establishes a research and training program to develop
PFAS-free turnout gear for firefighters, supporting innovation and safer
protective equipment through grants and partnerships.
Introduced: 05/05/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Debbie Dingell MI-06
Latest Actions:
05/06/2025 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and
Environment.
05/05/2025 - Referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology,
and in addition to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, for a…
05/05/2025 - Referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology,
and in addition to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, for a…
Committees: House Science, Space and Technology Committee, House
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, House Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
H.R. 3898
PERMIT Act
No Priority No Stance
AI Summary: The PERMIT Act amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
to streamline water quality standards, improve transparency in criteria
development, reduce regulatory burdens, and enhance permitting efficiency
for infrastructure and agricultural projects.
Introduced: 06/11/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Mike Collins GA-10
Latest Actions:
12/15/2025 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the
Committee on Environment and Public Works.
12/11/2025 - Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without
objection.
12/11/2025 - On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 221 - 205 (Roll no.
330).
Committees: House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, House
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Water Resources and
Environment Subcommittee, Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
• limits water quality certification reviews to project impacts on water quality (no down
stream impacts or non-water quality related impacts)
Outlook. H.R. 3898's provisions could be incorporated into a broader permitting reform
bill that addresses both energy and environmental permit mandates. As of this writing,
the Senate Committees on Environment and Public Works and Energy and Natural
Resources are negotiating on a bipartisan measure that would enhance prospects of
final passage of H.R. 3898's permit terms provisions.
Why it matters: S. 3738 would extend the authorization of the expiring large water recycling
projects ($500 million or greater) program. Authorized funding would be $450 million and the
program would be extended until 2032. It would also modify the the Title XVI program
increasing federal cost share to $50 million, providing $550 million funding authorization and
extending program to 2032. A new program authorizing $250 million to support
environmental and habitat restoration projects would be available to support the Great Salt
Lake and other inland lakes (priority on Central Utah Project.
Outlo0k: The legislation received a positive hearing before the Committee on Energy and
Natural Resources. USBR testified positively on the bill. S. 3738 could become part of a
larger western water resources bill later in the year.
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
S. 3738
MORE WATER Act
No Priority No Stance
AI Summary: The MORE WATER Act reauthorizes the large-scale water
recycling and reuse program, establishes a Water Conveyance Improvement
Program, and provides funding for projects that deliver water supply, safe
drinking water for low-income communities, and environmental benefits.
Introduced: 01/29/2026
Sponsor: Sen. Alex Padilla CA
Latest Actions:
03/17/2026 - Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on
Water and Power. Hearings held.
01/29/2026 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural
Resources. (Sponsor introductory remarks on measure: CR S380-381)
01/29/2026 - Introduced in Senate
Committees: Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Senate Energy
and Natural Resources Committee Water and Power Subcommittee
Why it matters: The legislation would increase the federal cost share cap for the WIFIA
Program from the current 80% to 90% for projects that are located in areas of extreme drought,
projects of national significance, or serves disadvantaged communities. By raising the federal
cap for these categories of eligible projects, H.R. 7845 aims to help address concerns about
Western water supplies resiliency due to prolonged drought conditions. Importantly, the bill
does not change borrowers' obligations, payment plans, or interest rates under WIFIA.
Outlook: H.R. 7845 has been referred to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure. While the issue of Western water supply security continues to be a focus for
lawmakers in the 119th Congress, the committee is currently focused primarily on drafting
and advancing the Water Resources Development Act of 2026 (WRDA) later this summer.
As a result, committee consideration on H.R. 7845 will likely be delayed until the summer at
the earliest.
FEDERAL - 119TH CONGRESS
H.R. 7845
DROUGHT Act of 2026
AI Summary: The DROUGHT Act of 2026 modifies the Water Infrastructure
Finance and Innovation Act to limit federal assistance for drought-affected
water projects to 90% of total project costs, prioritizing projects in severely
drought-affected states or counties, low-income areas, or those providing
significant public health, environmental, or water reliability benefits.
Introduced: 03/05/2026
Sponsor: Rep. Scott Peters CA-50
Latest Actions:
03/06/2026 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and
Environment.
03/05/2026 - Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to b…
03/05/2026 - Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to b…
Committees: House Energy and Commerce Committee, House Transportation
and Infrastructure Committee, House Transportation and Infrastructure
Committee Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee
CALIFORNIA ADVOCACY • FEDERAL ADVOCACY • GRANT WRITING
Sacramento • Washington, D.C.
Northern California • Central • California • Southern California
MONTHLY LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
To: Orange County Sanitation District
From Townsend Public Affairs
Date: June 19, 2026
Subject: June 2026 Legislative Monthly Report
STATE UPDATE
May and June represent one of the most consequential periods in California’s legislative
calendar, marked by major policy deadlines and the budget process. It serves as both the
deadline for bills to pass their House of Origin and the point at which the Governor releases
the annual "May Revise" budget proposal. It also precedes the constitutional deadline of June
15th by which the Legislature must pass a state budget. Under the provisions of Proposition
25, approved by voters in 2010, Members of the Legislature permanently forfeit their daily
salaries for each day the budget remains overdue after June 15. As a result, it has become
common practice for the Legislature to approve and transmit a framework budget to the
Governor by the constitutional deadline, allowing negotiations on remaining details to continue.
The budget approved on June 15 serves as a broad fiscal framework rather than a final spending
plan. Following its passage, the Senate, Assembly, and Governor continue negotiations over
outstanding policy and fiscal issues. Once an agreement is reached, the Governor must sign
the finalized budget package before the start of the new fiscal year on July 1. Additional details
and implementation provisions are then negotiated and enacted through a series of budget
trailer bills throughout the remainder of the legislative session.
As approved, the Legislature’s budget framework is projected to remain balanced through Fiscal
Year 2027–28 and significantly reduces the state's long-term structural deficit to below $10
billion. The Legislature’s proposal includes $355.9 billion in total expenditures for Fiscal Year
2026–27, including:
• $253 billion from the General Fund.
• $36.5 billion in total reserves, including:
o $4.5 billion in the Special Fund for Economic Uncertainties (Regular Reserve);
o $15.1 billion in the Budget Stabilization Account (Rainy Day Fund);
o $9.5 billion in the Proposition 98 Rainy Day Fund; and
o $7.4 billion set aside for Fiscal Year 2027–28.
Page 2
Revenue Proposals
The Legislature’s budget framework also includes several revenue-related proposals, including:
• Fair Share from Large Corporations
o In response to federal funding reductions included in H.R. 1, the Legislature
incorporated budget language requiring the Governor to present fully developed
policy options by April 1, 2027, for holding large corporations accountable for a
greater share of their employees’ healthcare costs. These options will be
considered during the next budget cycle. Any implementation of such proposals
would require subsequent legislative action.
• A federally compliant Managed Care Organization tax; and
• An expansion of the sales tax to certain prewritten software products. The software
proposal would apply the state sales tax to many commonly used software
subscriptions, including products such as Slack and Microsoft Office suites, beginning
in January 2027.
New revenue sources remain difficult to identify in periods of economic uncertainty. Voter
sentiment appears cautious regarding additional taxation, as reflected in the number of local tax
measures rejected during the June primary election. However, unlike local tax increases, the
revenue proposals contained in the state budget do not require voter approval and may be
enacted with a two-thirds vote of each house of the Legislature.
Given the volatility of California’s revenue structure—particularly its dependence on capital
gains and stock market performance—the Legislature and Governor are also discussing
potential changes to the state’s reserve policies.
Under current law, state leaders are constitutionally required to make annual deposits into the
Budget Stabilization Account; however, the account balance may not exceed 10 percent of
General Fund tax revenues. Policymakers are now considering whether that cap should be
increased to allow the state to save more revenue during strong economic years and better
prepare for future downturns.
Because the reserve cap was established in the California Constitution, any change would
require voter approval. Legislative leaders are currently considering a ballot measure for the
November election that would authorize a higher reserve limit. To qualify such a measure for
the ballot, lawmakers face a June 25 deadline to finalize the proposal.
CAP AND INVEST
Beyond the budget, one of the most significant developments this month was major regulatory
changes to the state’s Cap-and-Invest Program. The California Air Resources Board (CARB)
proposed and adopted sweeping changes to the program, despite it having been negotiated
and codified in SB 840 last year.
In 2024, CARB determined that it had underestimated the amount of greenhouse gas reductions
required of regulated industries by approximately 118 million metric tons. Rather than requiring
emitters to achieve those additional reductions, CARB adopted regulations that effectively
provide the equivalent of 118 million metric tons in free allowances to regulated entities.
Consequently, 118 million fewer allowances will be available for auction.
Page 3
The implications of CARB’s Cap-and-Invest changes extend well beyond climate policy and
could have significant consequences for water and sanitation infrastructure funding throughout
California, including challenges for opportunities to include new funding for programs such as
innovative biosolids management, of importance of OC San.
This growing uncertainty places increased importance on other available state funding sources,
particularly Proposition 4. As traditional funding streams come under pressure, Proposition 4
may represent one of the Legislature’s most significant remaining tools to support water
infrastructure, drinking water reliability, groundwater sustainability, and climate resilience
projects. Legislative leaders are expected to begin substantive discussions regarding
Proposition 4 implementation following their return from Summer Recess in August, making the
coming months particularly important for water agencies seeking clarity on future funding
opportunities.
While details of Proposition 4 are still outstanding, the Governor has asked the State Legislature
to allocate $2.1 billion in funding, including $792 million for water-related programs and
$326 million for clean energy programs. Unlike the Governor’s initial 2025-26 proposal, in
general, the budget does not propose a multiyear spending plan for Proposition 4. The
administration instead indicates that, in response to feedback from the Legislature, it would like
to submit programmatic bond funding proposals on a year-by-year basis. Final details on
funding and funding mechanisms, though, will be decided in August.
TPA continues to advocate for funding opportunities that would benefit OC San.
KEY STATE LEGISLATION
The following summarizes key legislation that OC San has taken positions on:
OC San staff and Townsend Public Affairs monitor current and upcoming legislation. Per the
Page 4
Board approved Legislative and Regulatory Plan, OC San has submitted five position letters:
Assembly Bill 1621 (Wilson) – Planning and Zoning Law: Housing Accountability Act
Summary: AB 1621 proposes changes to the post-entitlement permitting process for housing
development projects. The bill would limit building permit plan check reviews to two rounds,
modify review timelines and related provisions, and restrict agencies from requiring changes
during inspections that deviate from previously approved plans unless specified findings are met.
Status: AB 1621 has been referred to the Assembly Housing Committee
OC San Position: Oppose Unless Amended. Page 24, section K (H) of Legislative and Regulatory
Plan
Assembly Bill 2180 (Ward) - Proposition 218 Omnibus Implementation Act
Summary: AB 2180 clarifies how local governments may demonstrate compliance with the
constitutional requirement that fees do not exceed the proportional cost of service. The bill allows
agencies to use any reasonable method to allocate service costs among parcels, supported by
existing or reasonably estimated data. The bill is sponsored by ACWA.
Status: AB 2180 has passed the Senate and will be heard next on the Senate Floor.
OC San Position: Support. Page 24, section K (h) of the Legislative and Regulatory Plan
Assembly Bill 2381 (Johnson) - Local Agency Public Construction Act: Municipal Water
Districts: Sanitation Districts: Lowest Responsible Bidder
Summary: AB 2381 amends the Local Agency Public Construction Act to update competitive
bidding requirements for municipal water districts and sanitation districts. Specifically, the
measure increases the threshold for public works contracts that must be awarded to the lowest
responsive and responsible bidder from $35,000 to $220,000.
Status: AB 2381 died in the Assembly and is not moving forward.
OC San Position: Support. Page 23 section J (e) of the Legislative and Regulatory Plan and is
consistent with previous bill concepts that TPA has discussed with OC San staff and the Board.
Assembly Bill 2777 (ESTM Committee) – State Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund
program: loans: water reuse
Summary: AB 2777, sponsored by CASA and WateReuse, this bill would provide additional
flexibility for the State Water Resources Control Board to modernize the Clean Water State
Revolving Fund (CWSRF) loan program. The bill would authorize the state board to assess fees
in place of an annual charge for financial assistance and would authorize the fees or annual
charge to be assessed at any rate as permitted by federal law.
Status: AB 2777 will be heard in the Senate Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials Committee
on June 17.
OC San Position: Support an industry coalition letter. Page 23, section D (A) and section E (c) of
Page 5
the Legislative and Regulatory Plan.
Senate Bill 1117 (Cervantes) - Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling
Units
Summary: SB 1117 would restrict how local agencies calculate impact fees for accessory dwelling
units (ADUs) by requiring that fees for units exceeding 750 square feet be based only on the
portion of the unit above that threshold, rather than the entire unit.
Status: SB 1117 has been referred to the Assembly Local Government Committee.
OC San Position: Oppose Unless Amended. Page 24, section K (H) of Legislative and Regulatory
Plan
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
AB 35 Alvarez [D]This legislation, would exempt the adoption of regulations needed to effectuate or implement
programs of the act from the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). The bill
would require a state entity that receives funding through Proposition 4 to administer a
competitive grant program established using the Administrative Procedure Act exemption to do
certain things, including develop draft project solicitation and evaluation guidelines and to submit
those guidelines to the Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency, except as provided. The bill
would require the Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency to post an electronic form of the
guidelines submitted by a state entity and the subsequent verifications on the Natural Resources
Agency’s internet website.
Referred to Senate Appropriations
Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Grant
Funding – Oppose proposals placing further
requirements on grant recipients that return low value
for high administrative costs
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Support
CASA - Support
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Support
AB 634 Gonzalez [R]The legislation intends to add tianeptine to the Schedule I category of controlled substances,
reflecting the highest level of legal restriction. This action is intended to limit the potential misuse
and abuse of the substance by prohibiting its manufacture and sale unless explicitly allowed. The
bill emphasizes the importance of this classification to curb the substance's availability and
mitigate associated risks to public health.
Referred to Senate Health and
Senate Judiciary Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies Source
Control – Support legislation, regulations, and
funding assistance that would lead to decreased
introduction of microplastics, and other contaminants
of concern discharged into the sewer system.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 643 Wilson [D]AB 643 mandates a 75 percent reduction in organic waste disposal to landfills by 2025 to
combat methane emissions. The bill tasks the Department of Resources Recycling and
Recovery, along with the State Air Resources Board, with formulating associated regulations.
Local jurisdictions are empowered to utilize organic materials as agricultural soil amendments to
meet these goals, provided they follow specific guidelines. This approach aims to enhance
California's climate resilience through sustainable waste management practices.
Referred to Senate Environmental
Quality Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special
Districts – Oppose further state regulations that
adversely impact special district financing, operations,
and administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Watch
CASA - Support in
concept
CSDA - Watch
ACWA - NYC
AB 748 Harabedian [D]AB 748 authorizes the development and use of preapproved single‑family and multifamily
housing plans that local agencies may adopt to expedite housing approvals and reduce
duplicative design review. The bill adds Section 65852.29 to the Government Code, allowing a
property owner to build housing consistent with a jurisdiction’s preapproved plan without
undergoing additional design review, provided the housing meets the criteria of the adopted plan.
This aims to accelerate production of housing units while maintaining local standards for design
and land use, reducing processing time and cost for both agencies and developers. The bill is
intended to support increased housing supply and consistency in planning approaches across
jurisdictions.
Referred to Senate Local
Government and Senate Housing
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Housing &
Infrastructure Planning – Support statewide efforts
to improve housing production and planning efficiency
while protecting local infrastructure planning authority
and avoiding unfunded mandates.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 1198 Haney [D]Beginning July 1, 2027, changes in prevailing wages by the Director of Industrial Relations will
affect contracts awarded or announced after this date. Affected parties can request a review
within 20 days, with a final decision issued within 20 days thereafter. Certain housing projects are
exempt from these updates.
Referred to Senate Appropriations
Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special
Districts – Oppose further state regulations that
adversely impact special district financing, operations,
and administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Oppose
CASA - Watch
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 1337 Ward [D]Gut and amended on June 1. AB 1337 would significantly revise the Information Practices Act of
1977 by removing the exemption for local agencies, expanding the definition of personal
information, strengthening notice and conduct requirements, broadening limits on disclosure, and
adding discipline and criminal penalties for certain violations.
Referred to Senate Privacy,
Digital Technologies, and
Consumer Protection Committee
Watch Local Government - Oppose state mandates,
regulations, or legislation that set, alter, or otherwise
modify the
governance structure of special districts, joint powers
authorities, or other local government
entities.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Oppose
CASA - Oppose
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 1383 McKinnor [D]AB 1383 revises the pensionable compensation limits for public retirement systems in
accordance with federal guidelines starting January 1, 2027. It introduces new retirement
formulas for safety members, allowing for collective bargaining agreements to adjust these
formulas. This bill supports the alignment of state retirement benefits with federal standards and
facilitates negotiation over pension terms.
Referred to Senate Labor, Public
Employment, and Retirement
Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Labor
Relations/Human Resources – Oppose any
measure that imposes upon local government
mandated employee benefits that
are more properly decided at the local bargaining
table.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Oppose
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 1617 Alanis [R]AB 1617 requires public agencies and contractors handling household hazardous waste to
submit the Form 303 Household Hazardous Waste Collection Report annually for the prior
calendar year, aligning the reporting period with the calendar year. This shift aims to improve the
consistency and accuracy of hazardous waste tracking.
Referred to Senate Environmental
Quality Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Biosolids,
Organics, and Biogas – Limit redundant reporting
requirements on organics, recyclable material, and
solid waste.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
Proposed Legislation 2026
High Priority
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
AB 1621 Wilson [D]AB 1621 aims to streamline and speed up the post-approval (postentitlement) permitting
process for housing projects by setting clearer rules, firm timelines, and limits on agency
reviews. Recent amendments strengthen the bill by capping plan check rounds, shortening
appeal timelines, restricting new or changing requirements, and tying violations of these rules to
the Housing Accountability Act, making it easier to hold local agencies accountable for delays or
noncompliance.
Referred to Senate Housing
Committee
Oppose
Unless
Amended
Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Housing &
Local Agency Authority – Monitor and assess
legislation that affects housing development
processes and ensure local agency discretion is
preserved in infrastructure planning and project
implementation.
ACC‑OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 1710 Carrilo [D]AB 1710 redefines the criteria for "ordinances, policies, and standards" within housing
development, adding materials, requirements, and standards imposed by other public agencies.
It mandates compliance with existing plans and standards at the time of a preliminary
application. The bill aligns with the Permit Streamlining Act, requiring projects considered for
housing developments or emergency shelters to meet consistency and compliance evaluations.
This bill enforces a state-mandated local program impacting all cities, including charter cities,
and affects provisions for mandated cost reimbursements to local agencies.
Referred to Senate Housing
Committee and Senate Local
Government Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special
Districts – Oppose further state regulations that
adversely impact special district financing, operations,
and administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Not Favor
Unless Amended
AB 1729 Lee [D]AB 1729 revises existing telecommuting provisions by introducing the term "telework" and
mandates the Department of General Services to create a dashboard documenting the benefits
and savings of state telework programs. Each state agency must evaluate its telework program
every 10 years to ensure alignment with operational needs and workforce goals. This bill is
labeled an urgency statute for immediate effect and only impacts state agencies.
Referred to Senate Labor, Public
Employment, and Retirement
Committee and Senate
Government Organization
Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special
Districts – Oppose further state regulations that
adversely impact special district financing, operations,
and administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 1772 Papan [D]AB 1772 aims to address and prevent the proliferation of aquatic invasive species, specifically
the golden mussel, within California's water systems. This legislation intends to help safeguard
the state's biodiversity and maintain ecological balance by implementing measures to monitor,
report, and control the spread of these species in waterbodies and infrastructure systems.
Referred to Senate Natural
Resources and Water Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Quality
& Ecosystem Protection – Support measures that
control invasive species and protect California water
systems.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Support
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - SIA
AB 1777 Garcia [D]AB 1777 would amend the Health and Safety Code to explicitly authorize the California Air
Resources Board (CARB) to adopt regulations to reduce or mitigate emissions from indirect
sources of air pollution, such as facilities, land uses, and activities that attract mobile emission
sources like trucks, trains, and other vehicles. The bill clarifies that CARB can take this action
when necessary to achieve ambient air quality standards required under federal law, expanding
the agency’s authority beyond current direct vehicle emissions regulation. It aims to fill gaps
where regional indirect source rules have been adopted locally but no consistent statewide
mechanism exists to reduce pollution from high‑traffic indirect sources.
On the Assembly Floor. Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Air Quality &
Environmental Protection – Support measures that
strengthen air quality protections while minimizing
undue regulatory or operational impact on local
agencies.
ACC‑OC - NYC
LOCC - Watch
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 1821 Pacheco [D]AB 1821 allows agencies to charge fees for time spent searching for public records beyond
certain thresholds and updates response timelines to business days. Recent amendments refine
the fee structure, clarify exemptions, and adjust response and extension periods.
Referred to Senate Judiciary
Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Public
Transparency and Governance – Support policies
that promote transparency and accountability in public
agency operations while ensuring administrative
requirements remain reasonable for local agencies.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 1838 Berman [D]AB 1838 requires contractors bidding on public works projects to disclose any past wage-and-
hour violations and demonstrate corrective actions. Recent amendments clarify disclosure
requirements, documentation standards, and allow disqualification for noncompliance.
Referred to Senate Local
Government and Labor, Public
Employment, and Retirement
Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Public
Contracting Transparency – Support policies that
enhance transparency and accountability in public
contracting while ensuring competitive and equitable
procurement processes.
ACC‑OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 1898 Schultz [D]This legislation mandates that employers must inform employees about the use of AI tools in
decisions affecting employment and worker surveillance activities.Notifications must specify the
impacted employment decisions,and employers are required to maintain an updated list of AI
tools used,which should be provided annually to employees.Enforcement includes penalties for
non-compliance,reviewable through the Labor Commissioner or via civil action by affected
workers.
Dead Watch Guiding Priorities: Oppose redundant regulatory and
legislative requirements that impose excessive
limitations on effective operations.
ACC‑OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
AB 1997 Lee [D]AB 1997 requires a lead agency to approve or disapprove a housing development project where
90% of the units are affordable to very low or extremely low income households within 30 days of
certifying an environmental impact report (EIR), and establishes a working group to make
recommendations on the most effective ways to expedite the development of housing.
Referred to Senate Local
Government and Housing
Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Local Agency
Authority & Infrastructure – Support policies that
affirm local control and clarity in agency operations
affecting infrastructure development and system
management.
ACC‑OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Watch
AB 2013 Bennett [D]AB 2013 requires specified community water systems located in high or very high fire risk areas
to provide an annex to their disaster preparedness plans that includes specified information
relating to system preparedness and resiliency during a wildfire.
Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Disaster
Preparedness – Support legislation that improves
emergency preparedness and infrastructure resilience
to protect critical water and wastewater services
during disasters.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Support
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - OUA
AB 2026 Aguiar-Curry [D]AB 2026 expands and streamlines the process for diverting flood flows for groundwater recharge
by broadening eligibility, expediting permitting, and exempting certain projects from CEQA.
Recent amendments further expand the definition of flood flows, remove prior sunset limits, allow
private entities to participate with groundwater agencies, and establish clearer permitting
timelines and criteria.
Referred to Senate Natural
Resources and Water Committee
and Senate Environmental Quality
Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Supply
and Resource Management – Support policies that
improve water supply reliability and sustainable
groundwater management across California.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Support
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Support
AB 2125 Bennett [D]AB 2125 enhances the requirements imposed upon a plaintiff when filing a notice of completion
of the mailing when conducting the specialized service of process provisions utilized in
comprehensive groundwater adjudications.
Referred to Senate Natural
Resources and Water Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water
Resources Administration – Support policies that
improve transparency and accountability in water
rights and groundwater basin management.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Watch
AB 2127 Johnson [D]AB 2127 prevents local governments from prohibiting the construction of new accessory dwelling
units (ADUs) in an area solely because the lots are served by private sewage disposal systems.
Referred to Senate Housing
Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Regulatory
Reporting & Transparency – Oppose proposals that
create redundant reporting requirements that do not
yield commensurate public benefit and impose
unnecessary administrative burden on local agencies.
ACC‑OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 2180 Ward [D]AB 2180 updates the Proposition 218 Omnibus Implementation Act by clarifying that local
agencies can use any reasonable method to show that property-related fees reflect the cost of
service, rather than needing exact calculations for each parcel. It also confirms that water and
sewer agencies can use uniform or tiered rates based on customer characteristics, and gives
agencies flexibility to allocate costs within those tiers using reasonable approaches, as long as
rates do not exceed the cost of providing service.
On Senate Floor Support Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Local Agency
Authority – Support policies that protect local
agencies’ ability to set rates and fees necessary to
provide essential wastewater and water services.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Support
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA -
Support/Sponsor
AB 2381 Johnson [D]AB 2381, introduced by Assembly Member Natasha Johnson, aims to amend the Local Agency
Public Construction Act to increase the threshold for contracts awarded by municipal water
districts and sanitation districts to the lowest responsible bidder from $35,000 to $220,000. The
bill mandates the Controller to adjust this amount annually to reflect the percentage change in
the Engineering News-Record Construction Cost Index and publish the adjusted amount on its
internet website.
Dead Support Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Public
Contracting – Procurement & Fair Practices –
Support fair and effective public contracting standards
that enhance local agency competitiveness while
preserving transparency and accountability.
ACC‑OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
AB 2447 Bauer-Kahan [D]AB 2447 creates the Nitrogen Pollution Reduction Act. Requires the State Water Resources
Control Board (State Water Board) to require the Regional Water Quality Control Boards
(Regional Water Boards) to update the Irrigated Lands Regulatory Program (ILRP) in order to
reduce nitrogen waste discharges from commercial irrigated agricultural lands so that by
January 1, 2030, those lands do not cause or contribute to exceedances of the maximum
contaminant level (MCL) for nitrate, or exceedances of a water quality objective or total
maximum daily load (TMDL) for nitrate.
Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Quality
& Ecosystem Protection – Support policies
promoting nutrient management, water quality, and
sustainable agriculture.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Oppose
AB 2568 Johnson [D]AB 2568 reduces the maximum number of days water district board members may be
compensated each month, from 20 days to 15 days. Recent amendments clarify this limit by
revising prior proposed changes to board compensation caps.
Referred to Senate Local
Government Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Governance
& Compensation – Support policies aligning
compensation with board responsibilities.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Favor
AB 2630 Bennett [D]AB 2630 requires the State Water Resources Control Board to continue adopting water diversion
measurement and reporting regulations as emergency regulations through January 1, 2032.
Recent amendments extend this requirement and maintain CEQA exemptions for those
regulations.
Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water
Resources Administration – Support policies that
streamline water regulation and protect water supply
reliability.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Oppose
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
AB 2656 Petrie-Norris [D]AB 2656 requires a public employer shall provide a recognized employee organization no less
than 45 days’ written notice before taking an action to develop, purchase, implement, or utilize
any generative artificial intelligence to perform a service that is within the scope of work of the
job classification represented by the recognized employee organization.
Referred to Senate Labor, Public
Employment, and Retirement
Committee and Senate Privacy,
Digital Technologies, and
Consumer Protection Committee
Watch Guiding Priorities: Oppose redundant regulatory and
legislative requirements that impose excessive
limitations on effective operations.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - Oppose
ACWA - NYC
AB 2777 Environmental
Safety and Toxic
Materials
[Committee]
AB 2777 authorizes the State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board), when
administering loans under the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), to assess a fee
instead of interest (also known as fee in lieu of interest) for financial assistance services
rendered under the CWSRF, and makes a technical change to recently enacted legislation
dealing with recycled water.
Referred to Senate Environmental
Quality Committee
Support Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Quality
& Funding – Support policies promoting
accountability in water quality financing.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Sponsor
CSDA - NYC
ACWA -Favor
SB 342 Umberg [D]SB 342 revises the Contractors State License Law, enabling contractors to claim compensation
for work if properly licensed during contract execution, even if unlicensed at other times. It allows
clients to recover payments made to unlicensed contractors based on the period the contractor
was unlicensed.
At the Assembly Desk waiting
assignment
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Public
Contracting – Support legislation that protects local
agency contracting integrity.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
SB 899 Grove [D]SB 899 requires the Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force to coordinate with health
agencies to evaluate the health impacts of severe wildfire smoke by July 1, 2028, utilizing
existing data. The findings will guide the enhancement of health outcomes in the Wildfire
Resilience Action Plan and allow for independent consultancy contracts as necessary.
Referred to Assembly
Appropriations Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Disaster
Preparedness – Support policies that improve
wildfire resilience and public health outcomes.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Support
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA -
Support/Sponsor
SB 951 Reyes [D]SB 951 establishes the California Worker Technological Displacement Act, requiring employers
to provide advance notice and protections for workers impacted by AI-related job loss. Recent
amendments clarify notice requirements, expand worker protections during the notice period,
and refine enforcement and penalty provisions.
Referred to Assembly Privacy and
Consumer Protection Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Labor
Relations – Support policies ensuring worker
notification and protections.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
SB 992 Niello [R]SB 992 addresses the auditing process for special districts, removing the January 1, 2027,
repeal date for certain auditing exceptions. It increases the financial threshold from $150,000 to
$250,000, allowing districts with annual revenues below this amount to replace an annual audit
with a financial review, agreed-upon procedures, or a financial compilation.
Referred to Assembly Local
Government Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Governance
& Finance – Support policies that streamline audits
while maintaining accountability.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
SB 1001 Archuleta [D]SB 1001 requires the Office of Emergency Services to create a standardized identification card
(PIV-I credential) program for water utility workers to help them access restricted areas during
emergencies. Recent amendments clarify the program’s structure, align it with federal
credentialing standards, allow agencies to request cards for qualified personnel, and ensure
cardholders can enter closed disaster areas unless safety concerns prevent it.
Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Disaster
Preparedness – Support programs that improve
water utility safety during emergencies.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Favor
SB 1036 Grayson [D]SB 1036 modifies the Mitigation Fee Act to require that development impact fees be based on a
project’s net impact. Recent amendments require local agencies to reduce or offset fees when a
project replaces or demolishes an existing use so that fees reflect only the incremental impact
on public facilities.
On Assembly Floor Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Development
& Land Use – Support policies that ensure fair fee
assessment.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
SB 1081 Laird [D]SB 1081 expands an existing exception to mandatory water quality penalties by allowing more
small, financially disadvantaged publicly owned treatment works to fund compliance projects
instead of paying fines. Recent amendments broaden eligibility to include systems serving 3,000
or fewer people and clarify hardship criteria.
Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Quality
& Compliance Flexibility – Support policies that
improve regulatory flexibility and compliance
mechanisms for wastewater systems, particularly in
ways that enable small systems to invest in
infrastructure rather than non‑productive penalties.
ACC‑OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Support
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Favor
SB 1085 Durazo [D]SB 1085 requires cities and counties to identify applicable public water systems earlier in the
housing development process and to request water supply information shortly after an
application is submitted. Recent amendments accelerate timelines by requiring water systems to
provide water supply assessments within 45 days for certain housing projects, remove the need
for public meeting approval, and allow cities or counties to take legal action if assessments are
not provided on time.
Referred to Assembly Water
Parks and Wildlife Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Supply
& Project Planning – Support policies that improve
water system planning and assessments.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Track
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Favor
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
SB 1117 Cervantes [D]SB 1117 focuses on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units,
refining the calculation of impact fees. It mandates that fees for ADUs over 750 square feet be
based solely on the area exceeding this threshold, altering local agencies' responsibilities and
overriding municipal affairs to ensure statewide applicability. The bill stipulates no state
reimbursement for local costs incurred due to these changes.
Referred to Assembly Local
Government Committee
Oppose
Unless
Amended
Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Housing –
Support policies that improve equity in ADU fee
structures.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
SB 1125 Menjivar [D]SB 1125 mandates the State Water Resources Control Board to devise an annual needs
assessment for drinking water by May 1, 2027, and every year afterwards. This includes
evaluating the funds required to maintain affordable water services for community systems with
fewer than 3,000 connections, updating this analysis every three years.
Referred to Assembly
Environmental Safety and Toxic
Materials Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Supply
– Support policies ensuring safe, reliable drinking
water.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Support
SB 1139 Laird [D]SB 1139 gives the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District authority to enforce an
existing prohibition against the use of potable water for the irrigation of nonfunctional turf located
on commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, and on properties of homeowners’
associations, common interest developments, and community service organizations establishes
the Water Rate Assistance Program, administered by the State Water Resources Control Board
(State Water Board), to provide rate assistance for drinking water services to low-income
residential ratepayers.
Referred to Assembly Water
Parks and Wildlife Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water
Conservation – Support policies enforcing potable
water conservation.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Favor
SB 1159 Cabaldon [D]SB 1159 specifies that nonhuman entities, including AI and robots, are excluded from definitions
in key legislative acts concerning public access and participation, such as the California Public
Records Act and the Political Reform Act. The goal of this legislation is to preserve human-
centric interactions in California’s democratic institutions and not overwhelm public agencies by
protecting public resources from being consumed by machine-generated requests.
Referred to Assembly Privacy and
Consumer Protection Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special
Districts - Oppose further state regulations that
adversely impact special district financing, operations,
and
administration
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Support
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
SB 1153 Caballero [D]SB 1153 requires urban retail water suppliers in high fire risk areas to update their disaster
preparedness plans to include specific wildfire response and mitigation strategies. Recent
amendments clarify that these requirements are focused on planning (not guaranteeing water
service during fires) and provide liability protections by stating that water systems are not
responsible for wildfire damages due to loss of pressure or supply, and are not required to
function as firefighting systems.
Referred to Assembly Emergency
Management Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Disaster
Preparedness – Support policies enhancing water
supplier wildfire response.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA -
Support/Sponsor
SB 1313 McNerney [D]SB 1313 expands funding opportunities for projects that address PFAS contamination in drinking
water by allowing grants and loans through existing state and federal funding sources. Recent
amendments refine the measure to focus funding specifically on public water systems, clarify
eligible activities (like treatment, testing, and planning), and allow implementation through a
policy handbook rather than formal rulemaking, streamlining how the program is carried out.
Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Quality
& Contaminants – Support policies addressing
PFAS in drinking water.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Support
SB 1417 Pérez [D]SB 1417 prohibits mutual water companies from charging tenants for water service and requires
charges to be directed to shareholders, while establishing notice and public meeting
requirements before certain assessments or rate increases. Recent amendments also require
disaster-impacted public water systems to complete a disaster impact assessment within six
months of an emergency, including evaluating system damage, water supply reliability,
affordability impacts, and whether consolidation with another system may be necessary, as a
condition of receiving state funding.
Referred to Assembly Utilities and
Energy Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Disaster
Preparedness – Support policies improving post-
disaster water system assessment and recovery.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA -Favor
Legend:ACC-OC - Association of California Cities, Orange County
LOCC - League of California Cities
NYC - Not Yet Considered
CASA - California Association of Sanitation Agencies
ACWA - Association of California Water Agencies
CSDA - California Special Districts Association
1 | P age
TO: Orange County Sanitation District
FROM: Whittingham Public Affairs Advisors
DATE: June 19, 2026
SUBJECT: Local Legislative Report
Following are a few of the more notable developments and issues that have transpired in
Orange County over the last several weeks:
• The Garden Grove manufacturing facility of GKN Aerospace, a global aerospace
company that serves more than 90 percent of the world’s aircraft and engine
manufacturers, remains a focus of local news coverage.
Officials from local, regional, state, and federal agencies continue to review
facility records and operating procedures. In addition, U.S. Department of Justice
agents visited the site to collect documents and records.
The Garden Grove City Council recently held a special meeting where a GKN
representative provided an update on the situation. The representative highlighted
the company’s $3 million donation to the Orange County United Way, which
supported more than 50,000 residents from Stanton, Garden Grove, and
neighboring communities who were evacuated over Memorial Day weekend.
GKN also reaffirmed its commitment to hosting a town hall meeting once
additional information becomes available.
The United Way relief fund remained open for approximately two weeks before
closing after all available funds were distributed.
• The Orange County Board of Supervisors approved a $10.8 billion budget for fiscal
year 2026–27. The budget is approximately $300 million lower than the current
year’s budget and includes a $75 million shortfall that will be covered with one-
time funds.
County officials cited inflation and several legal settlements—including a major
settlement related to the Airport Fire—as key factors contributing to the budget
gap. To date, the County has avoided layoffs by implementing a hiring freeze and
eliminating more than 400 vacant positions.
2 | P age
• The Board of Supervisors also appointed County Chief Information Officer KC
Roestenberg to serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Michelle
Aguirre. Ms. Aguirre had announced her plans to retire at the end of her current
contract, which concludes June 30, after a 35-year career at the County.
• Amid growing public concern over the use of herbicides in local waterways, the
Orange County Board of Supervisors voted to permanently stop using herbicides to
control vegetation in San Juan and Trabuco Creeks.
Fifth District Supervisor Katrina Foley had proposed extending the ban to all
waterways maintained by County Public Works. However, a majority of the Board
chose to focus first on the two creeks while gathering additional information about
potential impacts in other areas.
Much of the discussion centered on glyphosate, a common ingredient in many
herbicides and pesticides. While glyphosate is widely used for weed control, it has
faced ongoing scrutiny over potential health risks, including cancer. Several Orange
County cities have already banned glyphosate and similar chemicals, although a
watchdog group has raised concerns about enforcement and alleged continued use
despite those bans.
• The 2026 Orange County Grand Jury took aim at the Board of Supervisors,
highlighting how each Supervisor receives $2.5 million annually to both manage
staffs of up to a dozen people and provide discretionary funding to organizations
and projects in their respective districts. One of the six findings in their new report,
entitled “Growing Political Appointees and Discretionary Spending within the OC
Board of Supervisors,” detailed a “…widening distance between Supervisors and
the Executive Team (which) undermines the value of the County Executive Team
and complicates coordination, slows policy implementation, and contributes to
fragmented decision-making.” Recommendations include limiting or eliminating
the discretionary fund practice, establishing criteria for Supervisorial staff
members, and realigning the Board’s engagement with the County Executive Team
and department heads on policy matters to enhance collaboration.
• The Grand Jury also released a report entitled, “PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl
substances) and Public Awareness: A Closer Look at Orange County’s Drinking
Water,” which seeks to provide a clear and current understanding of the response
by water agencies countywide to PFAS. The Jurors conducted interviews with a
number of elected and appointed officials and reviewed published water quality
reports and other records from all Orange County water retailers and relevant
agencies. The recommendations of the report include enhanced public education
and awareness, and the pursuit of cost recovery from PFAS manufacturers “…to
offset treatment, monitoring, and long-term remediation costs incurred by local
water agencies and ratepayers.”
3 | P age
• Orange County’s coastline experienced record swells for several days in early June,
which contributed to dangerous conditions at beaches, including the tragic passing
of a five-year-old girl in Laguna Beach, who was swept into the ocean along with
her mother and brother, the latter two being rescued by onlookers. King tides led to
flooding in Newport Beach and other coastal areas.
• As results from the June 2 election continue to be updated as signatures are verified
and ballots are reviewed, it is expected that two of the three County Board of
Supervisors seats on the ballot will move on to a runoff election this November.
Second District Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento overwhelmingly defeated three
challengers and will retain his seat for another four years, but in the 4th Supervisorial
District, Buena Park Mayor Connor Traut and Orange County Department of
Education Board member bested two other candidates and will move on to a runoff
in November. In the 5th Supervisorial District, incumbent Katrina Foley received
several hundred more votes than Assemblymember Diane Dixon, but neither was
able to secure more than 50 percent due to a third candidate who received roughly
6 percent of the vote, forcing a runoff for this seat.
• Communities across the country are weighing the potential benefits and challenges
of data centers, prompting several Southern California cities to adopt moratoriums
on new facilities. Concerns raised during these discussions have also extended to
battery energy storage system (BESS) projects, with some opponents linking the
two and citing potential fire risks.
Despite these concerns, the Westminster Reliability Project continues to move
forward. The battery energy storage facility, which received unanimous approval
from the Westminster City Council in 2025, is currently under construction next to
the Southern California Edison Shawnee substation and is expected to begin
operations in October.
As part of our scope of work, Whittingham Public Affairs Advisors has continued to
monitor the various City Council agendas and highlighted issues and items of relevance to
OC San. We also continue to monitor activities at the South Coast Air Quality Management
District, Orange County Water District, and South Orange County Wastewater Authority.
It is a pleasure to work with you and to represent the Orange County Sanitation District.
Sincerely,
Peter Whittingham
6/30/2026
1
OC San
Administration Committee
Local Legislative Report
Presented By: Peter Whittingham
Whittingham Public Affairs Advisors
July 8, 2026
Agenda
Public Agency Personnel Changes
Emerging News & Issues
2026 Regional Issues Forecast
Update
2
1
2
6/30/2026
2
Public Agency Personnel
Changes In Orange County
•Orange County CEO
•Placentia City Manager
•Irvine City Manager
•Anaheim City Manager
•Moulton Niguel Water
District General Manager
•Mesa Water
3
Emerging News & Issues
•GKN Aerospace
•County Landfills
•Herbicides
•Budget Challenges
Countywide
•OC Grand Jury Reports
•CalOptima
•Budgets & Tax Measures
4
3
4
6/30/2026
3
Updated 2025 Regional Issues Forecast
•Elections
•South Orange County
Wastewater Authority
•South Coast Air Quality
Management District
Rulemaking
•OC Local Agency
Formation Commission
5
Whittingham Public Affairs Advisors
6
Peter Whittingham
CEO
peter@whittinghampaa.com
5
6
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-5001 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:7.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Wally Ritchie, Director of Finance
SUBJECT:
WASTEWATER REFUNDING REVENUE OBLIGATIONS, SERIES 2026A
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Authorize the General Manager to issue fixed rate Certificates of Participation,to be referred to as
Wastewater Refunding Revenue Obligations,in an amount sufficient to refund up to $50,700,000 of
Wastewater Refunding Revenue Obligations, Series 2017A.
BACKGROUND
A portion of Orange County Sanitation District’s (OC San)debt portfolio will soon be subject to
optional redemption.As interest rates are lower than the coupons on the outstanding debt,there is a
potential opportunity to refinance the outstanding debt to reduce interest costs for OC San.The
Wastewater Refunding Revenue Obligations Series 2017A (2017 Revenue Obligations)are subject
to optional redemption on February 1,2027.Under current market conditions,a refunding of
$50,700,000 of the outstanding 2017 Revenue Obligations would generate more than 3%net present
value savings (the minimum percentage required by OC San’s debt policy).
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Comply with OC San Debt Policy -Financial Management and Procedure 201-3-1;net present
value savings are at least three (3)percent of the par amount of the refunded bonds from
refunding outstanding bonds
PROBLEM
The 2017 Revenue Obligations are currently accruing interest at 5.00%rates,which are higher than
current market yields.The 2017 Revenue Obligations will soon be available for optional redemption
on February 1,2027.Not refunding the 2017 Revenue Obligations on,or before,such date would
result in OC San paying above market rates on the 2017 Revenue Obligations.
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 7/1/2026Page 1 of 4
powered by Legistar™
File #:2026-5001 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:7.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Assuming current market conditions as of June 18,2026,OC San could refund the 2017 Revenue
Obligations for present value debt service savings,net of all costs,of approximately $2 million (equal
to 4.0%of refunded principal)with a refunding amortization structured with the objective of providing
level annual debt service savings.
TIMING CONCERNS
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 eliminated the ability of issuers to conduct advance refunding
(more than 90 days prior to the optional redemption date)on a tax-exempt basis.Therefore,
November 4,2026,is the earliest practical closing date for a tax-exempt refinancing of the 2017
Revenue Obligations which is 89 days before the February 1,2027,optional redemption date.A
refunding after February 1,2026,would result in OC San continuing to pay interest costs above
current market yields.
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
Not refunding the 2017 Revenue Obligations would result in OC San continuing to pay above market
interest costs.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
September 2025 -Adopted Resolution No.OC SAN 25-16 titled:“A Resolution of the Board of
Directors of the Orange County Sanitation District authorizing the execution and delivery by the
District of an Installment Purchase Agreement,a Trust Agreement,a Purchase Agreement,a
Continuing Disclosure Agreement and an Escrow Agreement in connection with the Orange County
Sanitation District Wastewater Refunding Revenue Obligations,Series 2025A,authorizing the
execution and delivery of such Revenue Obligations evidencing principal in an aggregate amount of
not to exceed $120,000,000,approving a Notice of Intention to Sell,authorizing the distribution of an
Official Notice Inviting Bids and an Official Statement in connection with the offering and sale of such
Revenue Obligations and authorizing the execution of necessary documents and related actions;and
that the Orange County Sanitation District Financing Corporation approve the documents supporting
and authorizing the Revenue Obligations in an aggregate amount not to exceed $120,000,000.”
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Outstanding Revenue Obligations
OC San currently has seven series of debt issuances outstanding (including the 2017 Revenue
Obligations) in the par amount of $523,835,000 as shown in the table below:
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File #:2026-5001 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:7.
Outstanding Par
Amount (1)
Series 2025A Refunding $95,070,000
Series 2024A Refunding $120,685,000
Series 2022A Refunding $81,620,000
Series 2021A Refunding $57,815,000
Series 2017A Refunding(2)$65,815,000
Series 2010C $22,830,000
Series 2010A $80,000,000
Total:$523,835,000
(1)June 30, 2026
(2)2017 Revenue Obligations
Depending on market conditions,staff is proposing to refund in November 2026,up to $50,700,000
of the 2017 Revenue Obligations maturing in years 2028 through 2030 with annual coupon rates of
5.00%,as shown in the table below.The principal payment due maturing on February 1,2027,will
not be included in the refunding and will be paid per the debt schedule.
Series Maturity Principal Amount Coupon
2017A 02/01/2028 $15,830,000 5.00%
2017A 02/01/2029 $16,580,000 5.00%
2017A 02/01/2030 $18,290,000 5.00%
Total:$ 50,700,000
Timeline
If the Board of Directors approves pursuing the refinancing of the 2017 Revenue Obligations,staff
will return to the Administration Committee in September 2026 with financing documents for final
approval to complete the refinancing for the 2017 Revenue Obligations.The refinancing of the 2017
Revenue Obligations is expected to close in November 2026.There is the possibility that interest
rates may change at the time of approval of the financing documents and,based on then market
conditions,staff may recommend a modified refinancing plan.The refunding of the 2017 Revenue
Obligations will be sold on a competitive basis to obtain the lowest financing costs possible.
The following summarizes the remaining major steps to be completed for the debt refinancings:
September 2026:
-Board approval of legal and disclosure documents
-Financing Corporation approval of legal and disclosure documents
-Request and receive ratings from bond rating agencies
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File #:2026-5001 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:7.
October 2026:
-Marketing and sale through a competitive sale process
November 2026:
-Closing
-Begin debt administration
All costs involved with the refinancing,including costs for Norton Rose Fulbright,Special Counsel
and Disclosure Counsel and Public Financial Management,Municipal Advisor,will be paid from the
proceeds of the new refunding issues.
CEQA
N/A
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Executing the refunding can potentially save OC San over $700,000 per year in debt interest
expenses.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
N/A
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ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-5002 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:8.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Lorenzo Tyner, Assistant General Manager
SUBJECT:
FY 2025-26 BUDGET AMENDMENT
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION:
Information Item.
BACKGROUND
In June 2025,the Board of Directors approved the Operating,Capital,Debt Service,and Self-
Insurance Budgets for FY 2025-26.As a result of an accelerated rate of expenditure in the Capital
Improvement Program (CIP)and repairs and maintenance activities,staff requested an increase to
the FY 2025-26 budget.In April 2026,the Board of Directors approved this requested budget
increase of $68 million for a total budget of $649 million,which included a Capital Budget of $318
million.
However,subsequent to that approval and the end of the fiscal year,staff determined that the
increase is insufficient. This insufficiency is the result of two primary causes:
1.The expenditure estimate for the remaining months was inaccurate.
CIP spending continued at an even faster rate than estimated.This accelerated spending
resulted in an additional $10 million in expenditure that was not anticipated to occur until the
2026-27 fiscal year.
2.A clerical error resulted in an underestimation of capital expenditures.
When developing the budget increase request for April 2026,February actuals were not
available.Staff developed a preliminary spending estimate with the intent to update estimate
when the February actuals were available.However,staff inadvertently omitted February
actuals from the calculation and request given to the Board in April 2026.Adjusting the
estimate to include the February actuals increases the 2025-26 total expenditures by an
additional $17 million.
The combination of the above mentioned items increases total 2025-26 expenditures by $27 million.
In August,after Finance have sufficiently reconciled the OC San expenditures and revenues,staff will
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File #:2026-5002 Agenda Date:7/8/2026 Agenda Item No:8.
In August,after Finance have sufficiently reconciled the OC San expenditures and revenues,staff will
request a final FY 2025-26 budget increase,and it will be taken to the August Steering Committee
and Board of Directors for approval.
The table below shows the approved revised budget and the most recent estimated actuals for FY
2025-26 (in millions).
Revised
Budget
Estimated
Actuals
Variance / New
Request
Capital $318 $345 $27
Operating $260 $260 $ 0
Debt Service $ 60 $ 60 $ 0
Other $ 11 $ 11 $ 0
Total $649 $676 $27
The requested increase does not materially impact the long-term cashflow or customer rates
as the increase is predominantly driven by accelerated project spending,not project budget
increases.
These spending increases are also partially offset by a reduction in total capital spending in future
years and unanticipated additional revenue.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Ensure the public’s money is wisely spent
·Produce appropriate financial reporting - annual financial report & audit letter and OPS & CIP
budgets every two years, with annual update
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·Presentation
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7/1/2026
1
FY 2025-26 Budget Amendment
Presented by Lorenzo Tyner, Assistant General Manager
Administration Committee
July 8, 2026
$254
$318 $345
$246
$260 $260
$60
$60 $60
$21
$11 $11
$0
$100
$200
$300
$400
$500
$600
$700
Original Budget Approved April 2026 Requested
Mil
l
i
o
n
s
Other
Debt Service
Operating
Capital
Budget Increase Requests
2
$581 Million $649 Million $676 Million
1
2
7/1/2026
2
Revenues
3
$617
$581
$68
$500
$520
$540
$560
$580
$600
$620
$640
$660
$680
$700
Revenues Expenses
Mi
l
l
i
o
n
s
Approved April 2026
$617
$649
$27
$500
$520
$540
$560
$580
$600
$620
$640
$660
$680
$700
Revenues Expenses
Mi
l
l
i
o
n
s
August 2026
$588 $581
$500
$520
$540
$560
$580
$600
$620
$640
$660
$680
$700
Revenues Expenses
Mi
l
l
i
o
n
s
Approved June 2025
$649M
$676M
Accelerated spending will not impact the total CIP expenditures
The approved Rate Model will not be affected
Additional review procedures will be incorporated into the system
Final amounts will be presented at the August Board meeting
Key Points
4
3
4
7/1/2026
3
Information Item.
Recommendation
5
5
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
COMMON ACRONYMS
ACWA Association of California
Water Agencies LOS Level Of Service RFP Request For Proposal
APWA American Public Works
Association MGD Million Gallons Per Day RWQCB Regional Water Quality
Control Board
AQMD Air Quality Management
District MOU Memorandum of
Understanding SARFPA Santa Ana River Flood
Protection Agency
ASCE American Society of Civil Engineers NACWA National Association of Clean Water Agencies SARI Santa Ana River Interceptor
BOD Biochemical Oxygen Demand NEPA National Environmental Policy
Act SARWQCB Santa Ana Regional Water
Quality Control Board
CARB California Air Resources
Board NGOs Non-Governmental
Organizations SAWPA Santa Ana Watershed
Project Authority
CASA California Association of
Sanitation Agencies NPDES National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System SCADA Supervisory Control And
Data Acquisition
CCTV Closed Circuit Television NWRI National Water Research
Institute SCAP
Southern California
Alliance of Publicly Owned
CEQA California Environmental
Quality Act O & M Operations & Maintenance SCAQMD South Coast Air Quality
Management District
CIP Capital Improvement
Program OCCOG Orange County Council of
Governments SOCWA South Orange County
Wastewater Authority
CRWQCB California Regional Water
Quality Control Board OCHCA Orange County Health Care
Agency SRF Clean Water State
Revolving Fund
CWA Clean Water Act OCSD Orange County Sanitation District SSMP Sewer System Management Plan
CWEA California Water Environment Association OCWD Orange County Water District SSO Sanitary Sewer Overflow
EIR Environmental Impact Report OOBS Ocean Outfall Booster Station SWRCB State Water Resources
Control Board
EMT Executive Management Team OSHA Occupational Safety and
Health Administration TDS Total Dissolved Solids
EPA US Environmental Protection Agency PCSA
Professional
Consultant/Construction TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load
FOG Fats, Oils, and Grease PDSA Professional Design Services
Agreement TSS Total Suspended Solids
gpd gallons per day PFAS
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl
Substances WDR Waste Discharge
Requirements
GWRS Groundwater Replenishment
System PFOA Perfluorooctanoic Acid WEF Water Environment
Federation
ICS Incident Command System PFOS Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid WERF Water Environment & Reuse Foundation
IERP Integrated Emergency
Response Plan POTW Publicly Owned Treatment
Works WIFIA Water Infrastructure
Finance and Innovation Act
JPA Joint Powers Authority ppm parts per million WIIN Water Infrastructure Improvements for the
LAFCO Local Agency Formation
Commission PSA Professional Services
Agreement WRDA Water Resources
Development Act
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
ACTIVATED SLUDGE PROCESS – A secondary biological wastewater treatment process where bacteria reproduce at a high rate with the introduction of excess air or oxygen and consume dissolved nutrients in the wastewater.
BENTHOS – The community of organisms, such as sea stars, worms, and shrimp, which live on, in, or near the seabed, also known as the benthic zone.
BIOCHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMAND (BOD) – The amount of oxygen used when organic matter undergoes decomposition by microorganisms. Testing for BOD is done to assess the amount of organic matter in water.
BIOGAS – A gas that is produced by the action of anaerobic bacteria on organic waste matter in a digester tank that can be used
as a fuel.
BIOSOLIDS – Biosolids are nutrient rich organic and highly treated solid materials produced by the wastewater treatment process. This high-quality product can be recycled as a soil amendment on farmland or further processed as an earth-like product for
commercial and home gardens to improve and maintain fertile soil and stimulate plant growth.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) – Projects for repair, rehabilitation, and replacement of assets. Also includes treatment improvements, additional capacity, and projects for the support facilities.
COLIFORM BACTERIA – A group of bacteria found in the intestines of humans and other animals, but also occasionally found elsewhere, used as indicators of sewage pollution. E. coli are the most common bacteria in wastewater.
COLLECTIONS SYSTEM – In wastewater, it is the system of typically underground pipes that receive and convey sanitary wastewater or storm water.
CERTIFICATE OF PARTICIPATION (COP) – A type of financing where an investor purchases a share of the lease revenues of a program rather than the bond being secured by those revenues.
CONTAMINANTS OF POTENTIAL CONCERN (CPC) – Pharmaceuticals, hormones, and other organic wastewater contaminants.
DILUTION TO THRESHOLD (D/T) – The dilution at which the majority of people detect the odor becomes the D/T for that air sample.
GREENHOUSE GASES (GHG) – In the order of relative abundance water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone gases that are considered the cause of global warming (“greenhouse effect”).
GROUNDWATER REPLENISHMENT SYSTEM (GWRS) – A joint water reclamation project that proactively responds to Southern California’s current and future water needs. This joint project between the Orange County Water District and OCSD provides 70
million gallons per day of drinking quality water to replenish the local groundwater supply.
LEVEL OF SERVICE (LOS) – Goals to support environmental and public expectations for performance.
N-NITROSODIMETHYLAMINE (NDMA) – A N-nitrosamine suspected cancer-causing agent. It has been found in the GWRS
process and is eliminated using hydrogen peroxide with extra ultra-violet treatment.
NATIONAL BIOSOLIDS PARTNERSHIP (NBP) – An alliance of the NACWA and WEF, with advisory support from the EPA. NBP is committed to developing and advancing environmentally sound and sustainable biosolids management practices that go beyond regulatory compliance and promote public participation to enhance the credibility of local agency biosolids programs and improved communications that lead to public acceptance.
PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES (PFAS) – A large group (over 6,000) of human-made compounds that are resistant to heat, water, and oil and used for a variety of applications including firefighting foam, stain and water-resistant clothing, cosmetics, and food packaging. Two PFAS compounds, perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) have been the focus of increasing regulatory scrutiny in drinking water and may result in adverse health effects including developmental effects to fetuses during pregnancy, cancer, liver damage, immunosuppression, thyroid effects, and other effects.
PERFLUOROOCTANOIC ACID (PFOA) – An ingredient for several industrial applications including carpeting, upholstery, apparel, floor wax, textiles, sealants, food packaging, and cookware (Teflon).
PERFLUOROOCTANESULFONIC ACID (PFOS) – A key ingredient in Scotchgard, a fabric protector made by 3M, and used in numerous stain repellents.
PLUME – A visible or measurable concentration of discharge from a stationary source or fixed facility.
PUBLICLY OWNED TREATMENT WORKS (POTW) – A municipal wastewater treatment plant.
SANTA ANA RIVER INTERCEPTOR (SARI) LINE – A regional brine line designed to convey 30 million gallons per day of non-reclaimable wastewater from the upper Santa Ana River basin to the ocean for disposal, after treatment.
SANITARY SEWER – Separate sewer systems specifically for the carrying of domestic and industrial wastewater.
SOUTH COAST AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT (SCAQMD) – Regional regulatory agency that develops plans and
regulations designed to achieve public health standards by reducing emissions from business and industry.
SECONDARY TREATMENT – Biological wastewater treatment, particularly the activated sludge process, where bacteria and other microorganisms consume dissolved nutrients in wastewater.
SLUDGE – Untreated solid material created by the treatment of wastewater.
TOTAL SUSPENDED SOLIDS (TSS) – The amount of solids floating and in suspension in wastewater.
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
TRICKLING FILTER – A biological secondary treatment process in which bacteria and other microorganisms, growing as slime on the surface of rocks or plastic media, consume nutrients in wastewater as it trickles over them.
URBAN RUNOFF – Water from city streets and domestic properties that carry pollutants into the storm drains, rivers, lakes, and oceans.
WASTEWATER – Any water that enters the sanitary sewer.
WATERSHED – A land area from which water drains to a particular water body. OCSD’s service area is in the Santa Ana River Watershed.