Public Works reports major water and irrigation accomplishments; city wins regional reuse award

Public Works and Water Resources staff briefed the council on annual accomplishments for water and irrigation operations and highlighted a regional award for the city’s wastewater reuse program.

Director John Spencer said the water division completed a 1.5‑million‑gallon tank this year and completed or contracted roughly 4.5 miles of replacement pipe in FY25, supported in part by ARPA funds. Spencer reported system statistics: the city maintains about 1,200 miles of water and irrigation pipe and more than 115 wells and pump stations (domestic and irrigation). He also gave annual delivery totals: approximately 3.3 billion gallons of domestic water in FY25 and 9.3 billion gallons delivered during the irrigation season. Spencer summarized customer service work: staff handled thousands of calls including breaks, leaks and service requests, and he emphasized the value of replacing aging infrastructure.

Planning and utilities staff also presented that the city won a Pacific Northwest reuse award for the Class A reuse project after a decade‑long effort. Staff noted the reuse project used a progressive design‑build delivery, secured funding through a bond vote and water‑rights work, and required substantial public education and stakeholder outreach.

Why this matters

The infrastructure updates — pipe replacements, tank commissioning and well maintenance — reduce operational risk and help maintain service levels for residents. The reuse award reflects regional recognition for a multi‑year capital program to deliver treated effluent for non‑potable reuse, which can help conserve potable supply and support long‑term water stewardship.