Council receives update on Portuguese Bend wells, extraction and winterization plans; extends emergency and bans 3‑wheel vehicles

City staff told the Rancho Palos Verdes City Council that the deep‑watering program in the Greater Portuguese Bend and Altamira landslide complex has extracted approximately 530,000,000 gallons (about 1,654 acre‑feet) since the program began, and that monthly pumping is trending downward.

"In total, we have extracted 530,000,000 gallons, or 1,654 acre feet since the deep watering well program was implemented," staff member Dave reported during the presentation. Staff described a series of winterization and passive drainage measures for multiple canyon areas and for Palos Verdes Drive South intended to reduce ponding and the need for costly pumping trucks. The presentation also highlighted grant efforts and a master schedule staff is assembling to align project deadlines with grant windows; staff said a total of roughly $173 million in projects is being planned across multiple funding sources.

Council and staff discussed liner durability, access for equipment and the timing of a hydrology study expected in the fall. Public commenter Mickey Rodich urged tighter use of emergency extensions where projects are planned in advance. After discussion, Councilmember Lewis moved to accept staff recommendations to extend the local emergency and related prohibitions and to amend the vehicle prohibition to include three‑wheeled motorized vehicles; the motion passed on roll call.