San Jose Mayor and Valley Water Board Strengthen Collaboration on Water Initiatives

In a special joint meeting held on August 19, 2025, the San Jose City Council and the Santa Clara Valley Water District Board convened to discuss collaborative efforts aimed at improving local water management and infrastructure safety. The meeting highlighted the importance of partnership between the two agencies, which share common constituents and financial resources.

The meeting began with a call for concise public comments, allowing for a more efficient discussion given the number of attendees. The agenda was adjusted to prioritize a status report on purified water initiatives before addressing the Anderson Dam seismic retrofit. This change reflects the urgency and significance of advancing purified water projects, which are crucial for ensuring sustainable water supply in the region.

Mayor of San Jose expressed gratitude for the ongoing collaboration with Valley Water, emphasizing the progress made in cleaning waterways and enhancing system safety. The Mayor noted that this year has been particularly productive, marking a significant shift in the relationship between the city and the water district. Chair Estremera of the Valley Water Board echoed these sentiments, recalling a time when meetings between the two entities were rare. He highlighted the shared goals and mutual benefits of their partnership, which has evolved over the years to address common challenges.

The meeting also included a ceremonial moment where attendees were invited to celebrate the advancements in purified water initiatives, symbolizing the collaborative spirit of the agencies involved. This event underscores the commitment of both the City Council and Valley Water to work together for the betterment of the community.

As the meeting progressed, the focus remained on the critical issues of water safety and sustainability, with both agencies poised to tackle the challenges ahead. The discussions set the stage for future initiatives aimed at enhancing water management and infrastructure resilience in San Jose and the surrounding areas.