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Committee hears possible $30 million authorization boost for Los Olivos wastewater project
Summary
A federal update noted Representative Carbajal secured report language that could increase authorization for the Los Olivos wastewater project from $4,000,000 to $30,000,000 in the House draft of the Water Resources Development Act; speakers cautioned authorization still requires later appropriation and a 25% nonfederal construction share.
During the federal update, the consultant noted work in the House on the Water Resources Development Act and local project language that could benefit Santa Barbara County.
"Under word of 2026 in the house bill, that authorization would be increased from $4,000,000 to $30,000,000, which could be super helpful," the presenter said, describing Representative Carbajal’s efforts to advance both Lower Mission Creek and the Los Olivos wastewater project.
Committee members asked detailed questions about how the Army Corps would administer the project, how funds would flow, and the nonfederal cost share. The presenter said the Army Corps would run the project, hire private contractors, and that construction typically requires a 25% nonfederal share; he cautioned an authorization does not guarantee immediate appropriations and that a backlog of authorized projects creates competition for funds.
Why it matters: an increase in authorization could make a Los Olivos project more viable, but local match requirements and the need for future appropriations mean the county must plan for nonfederal cost shares and uncertain timing.
