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SacSewer updates legislative and regulatory platform; board seeks clarity on CARB and citizen suits
Summary
Legislative and Regulatory Affairs Manager Jofil Borja presented an updated platform (last presented in 2018) describing policy priorities such as environmental stewardship, regional partnership and protecting ratepayers. Directors asked about engagement with CARB and how the district would define and respond to third‑party Clean Water Act suits.
The Sacramento Area Sewer District board received an update March 11 on a revised legislative and regulatory affairs platform intended to guide staff engagement with federal, state and regional policy.
Jofil Borja, the district’s legislative and regulatory affairs manager, told the board the platform replaces the 2018 policy and provides a framework for advocacy, timely responses to new legislation, and board engagement when needed. Borja said the platform emphasizes environmental stewardship, regional partnerships, protecting ratepayers, sound science and economic feasibility.
Board members questioned how the platform connects to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and to ongoing regulatory priorities. Borja said CARB is included in the district’s committee‑level work and that staff coordinate with regional representatives and industry associations to advance clean fleet and greenhouse gas goals.
Directors also raised concerns about third‑party citizen lawsuits under the federal Clean Water Act. Borja said the platform includes a provision on third‑party litigation and that staff would consult legal counsel and industry associations to better define “frivolous” suits and report back on active legislation or legal exposures. Several directors asked for periodic updates and a cadence for timely notifications when bills of interest move through committees.
Borja closed by asking for board feedback and said staff will continue engaging state and federal partners as bills and regulations evolve.
