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Commission approves amended San Joaquin Tributaries Authority JPA with expanded membership and scope
Summary
The SFPUC authorized approval of the first amended joint powers agreement of the San Joaquin Tributaries Authority (SJTA), a JPA among senior pre‑1914 water rights holders. Commissioners highlighted a shift toward collaboration, restoration and storage partnerships and noted the appointment of a new executive director for the SJTA.
The commission voted to approve the first amended joint powers agreement for the San Joaquin Tributaries Authority (SJTA), an interagency JPA originally formed to coordinate among senior water rights holders on east‑side tributaries of the San Joaquin River.
Assistant General Manager Steve Ritchie explained the amendment updates the JPA to expand its scope beyond litigation and water‑rights defense toward collaborative work including environmental protection and beneficial uses, and to add clear provisions for adding members. He said two original members (Oakdale Irrigation District and Merced Irrigation District) left the authority in recent years; the amended agreement positions SJTA to do broader restoration and storage coordination with remaining members and prospective partners.
General Manager Herrera noted SJTA recently hired an executive director after a year‑long recruitment and described the organizational changes as a step toward constructive collaboration. Commissioners expressed support for expanding membership and for outreach that could draw back districts that previously departed.
The commission approved the amendment by roll call vote (President Stacy, Vice President Arce, Commissioner Jamdar and Commissioner Laverone voting aye). Staff said the change sets a path for joint projects including groundwater banking and habitat restoration coordination with Central Valley partners.
Ending: Commissioners asked staff to monitor SJTA's collaboration efforts and to report back on potential joint projects.
