The State Water Resources Control Board convened on September 17, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding groundwater management in California, particularly focusing on the current county subbasin. The meeting began with an acknowledgment of the diverse perspectives on groundwater resource management and the importance of collaboration among stakeholders.

Chairman Octavio Escobedo of the town Indian tribe addressed the board, reiterating the tribe's support for the subbasin plan and expressing concerns regarding the potential designation of the subbasin as probationary. He emphasized the tribe's ongoing agreement with Arvin Edison for reliable water supplies, which he stated is essential for the tribe's development projects, including the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Escobedo urged the board to return the current subbasin to the Department of Water Resources (DWR) for continued oversight rather than imposing probationary status, which he argued could hinder progress.

Following the public comments, the board transitioned to a staff presentation led by Natalie Stork, Director of the Office of Sustainable Groundwater Management. Stork introduced her team and outlined the agenda, which included a review of the state water board's intervention under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), background information on the current county subbasin, and updates on the groundwater sustainability plan (GSP) developments since the previous hearing in February.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges and collaborative efforts in managing California's limited groundwater resources, with a focus on balancing sustainability goals with the needs of local communities. The board's discussions and decisions in this meeting are expected to shape the future of groundwater management in the region.