Sacramento flood control agency reports limited Natomas funding prospects and outlines emergency planning steps

At the Feb. 19 meeting of the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency, Executive Director Jason Campbell told the board that while the Corps of Engineers has an approved budget, the agency should not expect significant federal funds for the Natomas project in the near term.

Campbell, citing recent appropriations action, said the Corps is proceeding on projects at Folsom and Common Features 2016 but that securing specific funding for Natomas remains uncertain. "We don't have high expectations for there to be any funding for Natomas for that project," he said, and noted a federal work plan is due March 24 that will clarify allocations.

The director said dollars from the Bipartisan Budget Act are fully funding some projects, but that the Folsom Dam raise may still need additional funding. He described staff work on the agency's five-year cash plan and said the agency is evaluating bond refunding options that could either reduce debt service or free money for projects. "Those refundings could either provide additional savings in our debt service or provide additional money to go towards projects if needed," Campbell said.

Campbell also reported progress on levy certifications and project activity: four systems are certified, other certifications are in process, and the agency has six active projects under management, including work at Magpie Creek and Beach Lake. On Beach Lake he highlighted ongoing work on pump station improvements.

The director emphasized that capital work must be matched by emergency operations planning and public outreach. He described discussions about adapting the Lower American River Task Force and other forums to improve community education and preparedness ahead of flood season, with the agency acting as convener.

Deputy Executive Director Gary Bardini said staff have begun technical planning and are initiating conversations with county and city offices of emergency services and state operations centers to align project deliverables with emergency management needs. "We're also coordinating with the state operations center and the flood operations center," Bardini said.

Board members pressed staff on public awareness and local emergency response coordination; Campbell acknowledged that outreach remains a priority and said staff will continue to refine plans as projects and certifications advance.

The board received the report; no formal action was taken on funding changes at the Feb. 19 meeting. The agency's next regular meeting is scheduled for March 19.