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Board retracts 'zombie lot' report after state policy shift; grants update deferred
Summary
The board voted to retract a previously prepared 'utility‑challenged lots' report after a Division of Water Resources interpretation change undermined the report's foundational assumption. Staff also presented status updates on five grant‑funded projects, including a model update due June 2027 and a contested RIB detention‑basin design still under review.
The governing board voted (6–0) to redact and withdraw the previously approved working‑group report on utility‑challenged or 'zombie' lots after staff explained a substantive change in Division of Water Resources guidance that undercuts the report’s original premises. Managerial staff said the report should be shelved and re‑built from the ground up if the board directs a new working group.
Separately, staff and Beck Environmental provided a grants status update. The district’s model‑update work (WaterSMART funding with Desert Research Institute and county geoscientist support) is ongoing and staff said a public deliverable is expected by June 2027. A RIB (Reclamation Infrastructure Bank) detention‑basin design proposal was returned for substantial revisions after Beck Environmental and public‑works reviewers flagged cost and scope discrepancies. Staff said they will return to the board with revised bids and scope clarifications before any drawdown of federal funds.
Board members stressed caution: if a contractor’s price appears excessive relative to market, staff should pursue alternative procurement consistent with federal grant rules rather than obligate funds for an impractical design.
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