Sausalito Sanitary District Completes Long-Awaited Annexation of City's Sewer System

The Ross Valley Sanitary District meeting on July 16, 2025, highlighted significant developments regarding the annexation of the City of Sausalito's sewer system to the Sausalito Marin City Sanitary District. This consolidation, which has been in the works for years, aims to enhance the management of the sewer system to meet industry standards.

A key speaker at the meeting, who has firsthand experience with the Sausalito Marin City Sanitary District, emphasized the necessity of this consolidation. They noted past challenges, including oversights that led to increased project costs and delays due to a lack of understanding of the sewer system. The speaker expressed satisfaction that the consolidation has finally occurred, viewing it as a positive step for the residents of Sausalito.

The discussion also drew parallels between the Sausalito Marin City Sanitary District and the Ross Valley Sanitary District, both of which operate as independent special districts with elected officials and fee authority. The speaker pointed out that the successful annexation was the result of a collaborative process supported by all parties involved, contrasting it with the operational input from the City of Sausalito, which will no longer be involved in managing the sewer system.

In addition to the annexation discussion, the meeting included updates on the Bay Area Clean Water Agencies (BACWA). The Ross Valley Sanitary District is actively participating in BACWA's initiatives, including a regional planning study aimed at reducing inorganic nitrogen loading to the bay. This effort is part of compliance with a regional nutrient discharge permit, and the district is exploring potential strategies, including a nutrient trading program with other treatment plants.

The meeting concluded with routine matters, including the approval of the consent calendar and a motion to continue discussions on a specific agenda item to a special board meeting scheduled for July 25. Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to improving sewer management and environmental compliance through collaboration and strategic planning.