Greenfield Mayor Robert White Advocates for Wastewater Treatment Plant Replacement Funding

In a meeting filled with urgency and collaboration, the State Water Resources Control Board gathered on June 17, 2025, to address pressing water infrastructure needs in California. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of responsibility as board members and local leaders discussed the critical state of wastewater management and its implications for community growth.

Mayor Robert White of Greenfield took center stage, passionately advocating for the city's wastewater treatment plant replacement project. "Our plant is at the end of its useful life," he stated, emphasizing the dire need for funding to avoid a potential building moratorium that could stifle the city’s growth. Greenfield, known for producing half of the state’s leafy greens, has been proactive in aligning with the governor's housing targets, but the aging infrastructure poses a significant barrier to progress.

The mayor highlighted that the city is ready to move forward with a shovel-ready project, having completed all necessary permitting. "We could go to bid in 60 days," he noted, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The board members listened intently, recognizing the interconnectedness of sanitation, drinking water, and housing. One board member acknowledged the innovative approach of using a membrane bioreactor for the project, which could lower costs and enhance efficiency.

As discussions unfolded, the board emphasized the importance of community engagement in the ongoing wastewater needs assessment. This tool has proven invaluable for addressing drinking water issues, and its application to wastewater management is seen as a vital step forward. The board members expressed their commitment to supporting local initiatives, understanding that robust water infrastructure is essential for sustainable community development.

The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose, as leaders recognized that without adequate sanitation and drinking water systems, the growth of communities like Greenfield would be jeopardized. The call for action was clear: investment in water infrastructure is not just a necessity but a foundation for California's future prosperity.