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City approves well‑mitigation plan participation and asks for local oversight
Summary
Riverbank approved a resolution to collaborate on a Modesto Subbasin well‑mitigation plan that sets procedures for claims and emergency water assistance; staff noted a $300,000 baseline mitigation fund, multiple potential funding sources, and that 15 dry wells were reported in the subbasin since 2022. Council added direction to form a local oversight committee and outreach schedule and passed the resolution 5-0.
Public works director Cody Bridgewater presented the well mitigation plan element required by the Department of Water Resources for the Modesto Subbasin. The program establishes a claims process, committee structures, and coordination with non‑governmental providers (Self Help Enterprises and the Valley Water Collaborative) for emergency water and well replacement assistance.
Bridgewater said the STIRGBA GSA has established a baseline well‑mitigation fund of $300,000 funded by member agencies’ initial contributions (12.5% requirement referenced); the GSA will meet to determine long-term replenishment methods and member allocations. He told council the DWR dry‑well reporting system showed 15 wells reported dry or failed in the subbasin since the GSP adoption on Jan. 31, 2022 (13 in 2022, two in 2023, zero in 2024), and staff emphasized it is unclear which dry wells are directly attributable to basin management.
The plan sets eligibility, application and technical-review procedures, and anticipates coordination with Self Help Enterprises to provide emergency water within 24 hours and to evaluate potential well replacement grants (SHE grants can fund up to ~$60,000 for qualifying applicants meeting income and property conditions). Funding sources listed include GSA funds, project revenues, fines, and external grants. Public commenters—farmers and residents—expressed concern about cost allocation and urged transparent, localized oversight. Council passed the resolution to collaborate and directed staff to include the requested memo creating a North Nondistrict West well‑mitigation committee and technical review committee, an outreach schedule, and meeting dates to ensure Riverbank participation (vote 5-0).
