During the recent State Water Resources Control Board meeting, a significant focus emerged on the need for technical assistance to accelerate water project timelines. Board member discussions highlighted the challenges faced in managing these projects, with one civil engineer expressing empathy for the difficulties involved.

The board member emphasized the importance of gathering insights from technical assistance providers, including consulting firms and NGOs, to understand the reasons behind project delays and to identify successful strategies that have expedited processes in the past. "This is a great opportunity to hear from all the TA providers and get that kind of debrief," the member stated, urging for a comprehensive report on lessons learned over the past five years.

The meeting also featured comments from Eric Odena of the Community Water Center, who praised the board for its robust discussions and acknowledged the dedication of the Department of Financial Assistance (DFA) in their efforts.

As the board continues to seek ways to improve project efficiency, the call for collaboration and feedback from various stakeholders underscores a proactive approach to addressing water management challenges in California. The outcomes of these discussions may lead to more streamlined processes and enhanced support for future water projects.