Board introduces 50‑year franchises for California American Water and Golden State Water; adoption continued to Nov. 4

The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 21 introduced two ordinances that would grant comprehensive 50‑year franchises to California American Water Company and Golden State Water Company to operate and maintain water facilities in unincorporated Sacramento County.

Carrie Schmidt of the Department of Water Resources said both investor‑owned utilities requested superseding franchise ordinances covering their county service areas. Terms described by staff included a 2% payment to the county based on gross annual receipts, a requirement to keep a $10,000 corporate surety bond on file with the clerk, and a 50‑year franchise term. Several supervisors asked whether a 50‑year term was typical; staff replied franchise terms vary by municipality and prior county franchises had used 50‑year terms.

The board introduced the ordinances at the public hearing and waived full reading; adoption was continued to the Nov. 4 board meeting. No public speakers requested to comment during the hearing.