Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Water Supply topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission hears rebate options and Indio Sub‑basin update; asks water agencies to brief infrastructure plans
Summary
Commissioners reviewed the state zero‑emission space and water heating rebate program (up to $3,000 per heat pump) and received an Indio Sub‑basin alternate plan update; members requested presentations from Indio Water Authority and Coachella Valley Water Authority on infrastructure, recycled water and replenishment.
Commissioners discussed two water‑related items at the Oct. 27 meeting: a briefing on statewide electrification rebates and an update on the Indio Sub‑basin alternate groundwater plan.
Commissioner (staff presenter) described the "Go 0" (zero‑emission space and water heating incentive) program, noting three program tracks for single‑family, multifamily and small businesses and reporting that the program showed roughly 90% of funds remaining at the time of the briefing. "Choose a heat pump and receive a rebate up to $3,000," the presenter told the commission; staff recommended residents call the program number to check current fund availability.
Ellen Lewis, the AmeriCorps Civic Spark Fellow, summarized the Indio Sub‑basin alternate plan update between the 2022 and 2027 plans. Lewis said the 2022 plan showed increased groundwater storage in the Indio Sub‑basin and that the upcoming update will simulate future conditions, identify management actions, set quantifiable goals and establish monitoring and outreach measures.
Chair Dave Getka and other commissioners raised concerns about growing irrigation demand from planned development — a new sports park, large retirement communities and resort development in the Coachella Valley — and asked staff to invite the Indio Water Authority (IWA) and Coachella Valley Water Authority to brief the commission on planned substations, recycled water use, direct groundwater replenishment and rate impacts. "I'm not sure if they're gonna have recycled water to be used," Getka said when outlining concerns about irrigation demand for the new sports fields and other projects.
Staff said management options under consideration include direct groundwater replenishment using stormwater and imported water, increased nonpotable irrigation where feasible, source substitution to reduce pumping, and education and incentives for irrigation efficiency.
No formal policy was adopted. The commission voted earlier in the meeting to approve minutes and later adjourned; commissioners asked staff to schedule agency briefings early next year.
