MCOG backs AB 830 to let Caltrans fund utility relocations when highway projects require them

The Mendocino Council of Governments on April 7 voted to support Assembly Bill 830, legislation that would authorize the California Department of Transportation to fund relocation or removal of public-utility-district-owned utilities when those relocations are necessary for state highway infrastructure projects.

Monica Barragan, field representative for Assemblymember Chris Rogers, told the board the Hopland ADA and safety project on U.S. Highway 101 requires relocation of water and sewer lines owned by the Hopland Public Utility District. Under current law, Caltrans cannot use its funds to move public utility infrastructure; the bill would permit Caltrans to fund such relocations for public utility districts when required for highway work. Staff said the Hopland PUD estimated relocation costs near $3 million, an amount that the small district could not reasonably absorb.

Director Klein and others urged support; the County Board of Supervisors had already sent a letter backing the legislation. The board approved a motion to send a letter of support and authorized the executive director to transmit it. Caltrans representative Tasha Ostrand recorded an abstention; other board members voted yes.

Ending: MCOG staff will send the letter of support to the Assembly member and pursue coordination with member jurisdictions; board members noted each local legislative body should also consider support because the bill's implementation would depend on future Caltrans funding and project schedules.