WRWC approves consultant to update cost and finance chapter for regional water plan

WRWC members unanimously approved a contract, not to exceed $34,990, with Hansford Economic Consulting to update the cost and finance chapter of the regional water management plan and deliver a related financial analysis.

The contract covers coordination with the Truckee Meadows Regional Planning Agency to obtain agency capital improvement plan data, a detailed review of cost and funding sources for facilities (including allocation between existing users and new development), preparation of a financial chapter intended for both print and web presentation, limited meetings and presentations, and an optional fee-burden (feasibility) analysis to assess the effect of connection fees on new development. Catherine Hansford, principal of Hansford Economic Consulting, told commissioners the firm also has delivered similar work for prior plan updates and expects to finish by the end of summer 2025.

The Northern Nevada Water Planning Commission recommended the agreement at its February meeting, and WRWC member Paul Anderson moved approval; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Commissioners asked whether the $34,990 amount included the optional fee-burden task; Hansford said it did and described the figure as a “maximum not to exceed amount.” She also noted the firm has historically billed under the not-to-exceed amount.

Kim Rigdon, WRWC staff, said the project will coordinate with Truckee Meadows Regional Planning Agency work to reduce duplicative data collection and to present results online in a more user-friendly, interactive format. Commissioners emphasized the importance of clear web presentation and outreach to make the plan accessible to constituents.

The contract will be paid from the Regional Water Management Fund.