Voters Support More Funding to Reduce Wildfire Threat

SACRAMENTO — New data released from the Wildfire Solutions Coalition indicates that a majority of California voters strongly support allocating more funding towards wildfire resilience and support a portion of the state’s General Fund going towards this effort.

Released Dec. 16, the findings are based on a survey of more than 600 California voters conducted by the independent research company FM3 and sponsored by the coalition, which ACWA belongs to along with several allied organizations and more than a half dozen ACWA member agencies.

The “Views of Wildfire Prevention Funding” poll found that 68% of respondents believe that California has a great need or some need for additional funding to reduce the threat of these catastrophic wildfires. Specifically, more than 60% of respondents support dedicating 1% or 2% of the state’s General Fund to reducing risk from wildfires and other extreme weather events.

“These findings are a powerful sign that Californians are in lockstep with the mission of the Coalition – to increase public and private investment in proactive, science-based solutions that protect communities and landscapes from the increasing threat of catastrophic wildfires,” states a coalition news release.

Yorba Linda Water District Dedicates Upgraded Timber Ridge Booster Pump Station

YORBA LINDA – On December 15, the Yorba Linda Water District (YLWD) celebrated the completion of the newly upgraded Timber Ridge Booster Pump Station with a plaque unveiling and ribbon-cutting ceremony. Local residents, community partners, officials from the City of Yorba Linda, representatives from local congressional offices, and District staff, attended the event marking the completion of a significant $6.2 million project designed to provide improved reliability and emergency preparedness while ensuring efficiency and consistent water service during everyday operations. 

Newly appointed YLWD Board President, Gene Hernandez, welcomed attendees and formally opened the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance, expressing appreciation for the community’s support and involvement. President Hernandez highlighted some of the history and the importance of the booster pump station, which has served the Yorba Linda community since its original construction in 1985. President Hernandez reaffirmed YLWD’s commitment to maintaining critical infrastructure and emphasized the importance of ongoing investment to ensure reliable water service for future generations. 

“Our job here at the Yorba Linda Water District is to deliver high-quality, safe and reliable drinking water to over 80,000 people,” said President Gene Hernandez. “This upgrade has been a long time coming, and our commitment to maintaining and improving our infrastructure continues to be true.”

Key improvements include the installation of three new 950-gallon-per-minute (gpm) pumps with 100-horsepower (hp) motors. Two of the pumps provide a combined capacity of 1,900 gpm, while the third pump is available on a standby basis. An emergency 400-kW natural gas generator was added to ensure uninterrupted operation during power outages or wildfire events. The project also included the installation of two new surge tanks to protect pipelines and the pump station, upgrades to pressure-reducing and pressure-relief systems, and a complete overhaul of electrical, mechanical, and communications equipment. 

The upgraded facility also features a new building with an air-conditioned electrical room and ventilated pump room, enhanced site features such as retaining and perimeter walls, paving, security upgrades, and water-efficient landscaping. Approximately $133,000 of the project cost was funded by the Casino Ridge development to cover their share of expenses. 

These upgrades reflect YLWD’s ongoing commitment to providing reliable, high-quality water service and help ensure a sustainable water future for generations to come. 

For more information on YLWD’s Capital Improvement Projects, call 714-701-3000 or visit www.ylwd.com/about/projects. 

YLWD Wins Best Utility Services Provider in Yorba Linda

Looking Back and Planning Ahead as a New Year Arrives

Powerful currents of change driven by Mother Nature, by shifting water policy and by evolving ACWA member needs have brought us to the end of another eventful year. We have been through a lot together and have a solid foundation on which to build a successful 2026.

At the federal level, we are proactively navigating a major shift in water policy, marked by transformative changes to the Clean Water Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and Endangered Species Act. At the state level, we are positioning ourselves for success as California prepares for a new gubernatorial administration. And at the association level, we are implementing a new five-year Strategic Plan designed not just to serve ACWA’s members, but to help them thrive through strong advocacy, robust engagement, education, communication, and continued fiscal strength.

ACWA is not merely riding the current of change — we are harnessing it. Thanks to your engagement and the dedication of our staff, the state of the association is strong and growing stronger.

Much of our momentum stems from steadily achieving goals within our 2025–’29 Strategic Plan, adopted by the Board in late 2024. It provides a clear, forward-looking roadmap to sharpen our focus and invest resources where they matter most. In just the first year, we have completed 70% of the measurable objectives, representing a reflection of our shared commitment and organizational discipline. A key achievement includes developing a strategy to leverage member expertise so we can get ahead of the issues that matter most.

This year also underscored ACWA’s essential role in statewide water policy. From Sacramento to Washington, D.C., we ensured the voices of California’s water managers were heard. ACWA engaged on more than 45 regulatory issues and nearly 120 legislative issues. ACWA-sponsored legislation advanced, including SB 394, which strengthens penalties for water theft and was signed by Governor Newsom. 

Member engagement helped power these outcomes: 31 advocacy Alerts prompted 138 agencies to take more than 560 actions. I can’t stress enough how important it is to have individual agency actions backing up ACWA’s advocacy.

Connecting members remains the engine behind our advocacy. This year we hosted three major conferences, a Legislative Symposium and seven Region events. Education and communication continue to elevate our collective voice, with seven webinars covering topics from cybersecurity to water rights data. 

ACWA also remains fiscally strong. Through disciplined financial stewardship, we strengthened cash balances and reduced unfunded pension liabilities, allowing the Board to reduce the planned 2026 dues increase from 2.5% to 1%, a tangible return on responsible governance.

Looking ahead, ACWA will focus on making water issues a top priority for candidates running for governor during the 2026 primary election. At the same time, the results of our recent member engagement survey will help guide our work in supporting members and strengthening local and regional efforts.

Thank you for your engagement, partnership and commitment to ACWA and California water. Whatever challenges, opportunities or surprises lie ahead of us, we will face them together. I wish you all a warm holiday break with your loved ones, and Happy New Year! .

December 19, 2025 ACWA News

ACWA News

• Articles and Photos Cover Highlights from 2025 Fall Conference & Expo
• Leadership Column: Looking Back and Planning Ahead as New Year Approaches
• Southern California Members Host Largest Region Event in ACWA History
• ACWA Board Briefed on 2025 Accomplishments

OCWD Earns Cal/OSHA Golden Gate Recognition for Exemplary Safety Practices

FOUNTAIN VALLEY – The Orange County Water District (OCWD; the District) has earned Golden Gate Recognition from Cal/OSHA Consultation Services, a distinction awarded to employers with effective health and safety programs. The recognition followed a comprehensive evaluation of the District’s Fountain Valley campus in November.

“This recognition reflects our team’s commitment to safety and excellence,” said OCWD President Denis R. Bilodeau, P.E. “Protecting our employees is essential to maintaining the reliable, high-quality water supply our communities depend on.”

OCWD’s Fountain Valley campus serves as the District’s administrative and operational hub. It houses the main administration building, a state-certified water quality laboratory, and the Groundwater Replenishment System—the world’s largest advanced water purification project for indirect potable reuse. Approximately 200 full-time employees work at the site, supporting both administrative functions and water treatment operations.

Cal/OSHA’s evaluation included a site walkthrough, employee interviews, and a review of five years of injury logs and 10 District safety programs, including the Injury and Illness Prevention Program and Workplace Violence Prevention Program. No hazards were identified, affirming the strength of OCWD’s safety practices.

This recognition underscores OCWD’s strong safety culture and its investment in training, safety infrastructure, and operational integrity. These efforts are essential to supporting the District’s mission of providing a reliable, high-quality water supply to 2.5 million people in north and central Orange County.

For more information about OCWD, visit www.ocwd.com and follow @OCWaterDistrict on social media.

Two New Heli-Hydrants Boost Wildfire Response Along Highway 243

BEAUMONT – Leaders from across Riverside County gathered December 15 to mark a major step forward in wildfire readiness with the unveiling of two new Heli-Hydrants near Highway 243. These tools expand aerial firefighting capacity in a high-risk area and reflect a shared commitment to protecting the people San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency (SGPWA) and its member agencies serve.

“When we invest in safety, we invest in everything that allows our communities to thrive, including our schools, businesses, neighborhoods, and families,” said Riverside County Fifth District Supervisor Dr. Yxstian Gutierrez. “This work will echo for decades, building a Pass area that is stronger, more prepared, and more united. I am proud to stand with our partners as we take another decisive step toward protecting our shared future.”

The Heli-Hydrants were installed through collaboration between SGPWA and High Valleys Water District (HVWD) and are part of a growing regional network designed to deliver rapid, reliable water access for firefighting helicopters. Backed by $1.8 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding secured by Supervisor Gutierrez, the installations allow helicopters to respond in an average of just seven minutes.

“The High Valleys Heli-Hydrants are the result of trust and steadfast partnership,” said SGPWA Treasurer Robert Ybarra. “Protecting one of California’s most fire-prone regions demands agencies working across boundaries. This is regional collaboration at its best, delivering real security for our communities.”

The High Valleys installations are the fourth of seven planned Heli-Hydrants coordinated by SGPWA. Already battle-tested during recent wildfires, the system provides firefighters with dependable water access when seconds matter most. Strategically located along key corridors, the Heli-Hydrants enhance aerial attack capabilities and improve emergency response times across the Pass area. The Heli-Hydrant program is guided by the firsthand experience of retired firefighter and creator Mark Whaling.

“This infrastructure means something deeply personal to our community,” said HVWD General Manager Stan Houghton, addressing the 45 attendees while swapping his HVWD ballcap for his volunteer firefighter cap. “We have lived through the fear, loss, and lasting impacts of severe wildfires. The Heli-Hydrant gives our firefighters a fighting chance and our residents peace of mind.”

Supervisor Gutierrez addressed the gathering alongside local leaders, firefighters, and agency partners. The project was also formally recognized by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh and Assemblymember Greg Wallis.

To learn more about the Heli-Hydrant program, visit sgpwa.com.

Rancho Water Receives Excellence in Information Technology Practices Award

Rancho California Water District (Rancho Water/District) is proud to announce that its Information Technology (IT) Department has been selected as a recipient of the 2025 MISAC Excellence in Information Technology Practices Award, presented by the Municipal Information Systems Association of California (MISAC).

This distinguished award recognizes public agencies whose IT operations demonstrate exemplary practices, innovation, and efficiency that surpass industry standards.

“Rancho Water is honored to receive this recognition,” said Rancho Water General Manager Jason Martin. “This award underscores our commitment to maintaining secure, modern, and forward-thinking technology systems that support reliable water service for our community.”

Established in 2000, the MISAC Excellence in Information Technology Practices Award recognizes best practices and peer recognition across California’s public agencies. The program is updated annually to reflect evolving technologies, cybersecurity standards, and operational expectations.

To qualify, agencies must complete a comprehensive questionnaire and submit detailed supporting documentation such as IT master plans, GIS plans, disaster recovery plans, and related materials covering subject areas such as disaster preparation and recovery, professional development and training, and budget and strategic planning.

In its award letter to Rancho Water, MISAC congratulated the District on attaining the level of excellence for this award, stating:

“We are proud to recognize agencies for implementing information technology practices that excel in creative and efficient uses of local government resources…The award signifies that your agency met or exceeded MISAC standards in the technology focused areas.”

Rancho Water’s IT Department plays a critical role in supporting the District’s mission of delivering high-quality, reliable water and wastewater services. From cybersecurity enhancements to advanced GIS capabilities and infrastructure modernization, the department continues to champion industry-leading innovative solutions that benefit customers and operations alike.

For more information about Rancho Water’s programs, initiatives, and services, please visit RanchoWater.com.

Desert Water Agency Unveils Five-Year Strategic Plan

Desert Water Agency adopted its first Five-Year Strategic Plan in November that sets a clear path for the future, and formalizes its mission, vision, and values.

The plan focuses on four strategic goals: sustainability, operational, modernization and engagement.

Each goal represents a core area of focus that is supported by measurable objectives and initiatives to help DWA achieve its long-established purpose of safe, sustainable and responsible water management and delivery.

The DWA Board of Directors adopted the plan Nov. 18. It was formally shared with DWA employees during an all-staff meeting Dec. 11.

“The creation of this plan is an important step for DWA. It guides our future by providing clear strategic priorities in an evolving and often challenging water landscape,” said DWA Board President Paul Ortega. “This roadmap will help ensure the Agency continues to responsibly deliver water and exceptional service, while strengthening vital partnerships and advancing critical policies that are key to our region’s water future.”

Development of the strategic plan was comprehensive and inclusive. All employees and the Board of Directors were invited to collaborate and provide input to help develop the strategic goals, objectives and initiatives. The process also involved creating mission, vision and values statements to better define the Agency and its guiding principles.

“This plan reflects a unified Agency vision that staff can stand behind, and guides informed decision-making as we conduct day-to-day operations and plan for a sustainable future,” said Esther M. Saenz, DWA General Manager. “Our direction is clear – invest in efficiencies and infrastructure, ensure long-term water reliability, enhance high-quality service, cultivate collaboration, and foster community relationships.”

To see a copy of DWA’s Strategic Plan and mission, vision, and values, go to www.dwa.org/StrategicPlan.

EMWD Appoints Veteran Water Leader Phil Paule to Metropolitan Board of Directors

PERRIS – Longtime Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) Board Member Phil Paule has been selected as the organization’s new delegate to serve on The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan) Board of Directors.

 Paule replaces EMWD Board Member Jeff Armstrong, who announced earlier this month that he would step down from the Metropolitan Board of Directors to spend more time with his family. Paule will be sworn in at the next Metropolitan Board of Directors meeting. Armstrong will remain on EMWD’s Board, where he represents the Perris and Menifee areas.

 “I appreciate this board entrusting me with this responsibility,” Paule said. “EMWD has a long history of leadership and expertise on local and statewide water issues, and I will lean on my colleagues on this board and our staff for their knowledge so that I may best serve our customers. I know California’s water future has many big challenges, and I look forward to working with Metropolitan and our sister agencies to address those challenges.”

 Paule has served on EMWD’s Board of Directors since 2007 and has served multiple terms as Board President. He represents Division 1, which includes the eastern, northern, and southern portions of the City of Murrieta, the southwest portion of the City of Moreno Valley, a northern portion of the City of Perris, and the unincorporated areas of French Valley, Winchester, Diamond Valley, Homeland, Juniper Flats, Nuevo, Lakeview, Gilman Hot Springs, and Green Acres.

 Paule has worked in various levels of government for more than three decades. He currently serves as Chief of Staff for a local elected official.

 Metropolitan is the regional wholesale water provider that serves 19 million people across six Southern California counties. It imports water from the State Water Project and Colorado River Aqueduct and is the nation’s largest water agency. It’s Board of Directors consists of 38 individuals representing 26 member agencies.

 EMWD receives nearly half of its water supplies from Metropolitan and is its fastest-growing member agency. EMWD’s service area represents more than 12 percent of Metropolitan’s 5,500 square mile geographic footprint.