Carpinteria Council reviews groundwater injection plan amid resident concerns

Residents of Carpinteria are raising concerns over the proposed Carpinteria Advanced Purification Project, which aims to inject treated wastewater into the groundwater for future drinking water. During the City Council meeting on July 14, 2025, local resident Hans Betzols voiced his apprehensions about the project's impact on the community, particularly regarding noise and disruption from the machinery planned for Meadowview Lane.

City officials confirmed that the project, which has already been reviewed by the architecture review board, is set to be discussed at the upcoming planning commission meeting on August 4. Bob Roff, a city representative, acknowledged the concerns from the Linden Meadows homeowners and indicated that the water district is considering potential adjustments to the project in response.

Residents will be notified of any changes to the project location or plans, with assurances that those living near the proposed sites will receive updates ahead of any scheduled meetings. The city is currently in a holding pattern, awaiting further direction from the water district regarding the project’s future.

In addition to the water project discussions, community member Alan Koch expressed pride in the local residents' resilience and confidence in the city’s leadership, particularly following recent events involving ICE. The council meeting highlighted the community's engagement and the importance of addressing local concerns as the city moves forward with significant infrastructure projects.