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Los Olivos CSD seeks clearer project description to pursue Solvang transmission while deferring collection choice
Summary
The board directed staff to return with a revised project description to develop a transmission line to Solvang for treatment and to defer the decision on collection technology (gravity vs. effluent) pending independent cost verification; the move aims to improve grant prospects and narrow capital cost uncertainty.
The Los Olivos Community Services District on May 28 directed staff to prepare a revised project description and associated resolution that advances a transmission-and-treatment approach to the city of Solvang while deferring a final decision on collection technology.
General Manager Guy Savage told the board the project description is intended to serve three purposes: an 80% design for engineering, environmental review and a grant‑pursuit document. "Whatever you and the board decide makes sense, that's what we're going to do," Savage said, adding the document will be used to pursue grants and to support environmental documents.
Savage outlined the two primary collection choices under study — gravity‑fed mains and an effluent (pressurized tank and pump) system — plus a hybrid 'mix' that favors gravity downtown and effluent on smaller lots. He cautioned the board that the workshop tallies are not scientific and that parcel‑level allocations will differ from the simple per‑parcel division used in early estimates.
Board members said a Solvang transmission option could lower capital needs and make the district more competitive for grants. One director argued advancing a defined transmission-and-treatment concept would allow staff to pursue funding and give the community clearer numbers ahead of a Prop 218 vote. The motion passed and the board asked staff to return with a refined project description at the June meeting.
