7:30 p.m.
The Board of Directors of the San Benito County Water District convened in Special Session. Directors Ken Perry, John Tobias, James DeLaCruz and Douglas Keck were present together with District Manager/Engineer John S. Gregg, District Counsel David Pipal, Deputy District Engineer Jeff Cattaneo and Administrative Services Officer Janet L. Miller.
a. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
President Keck called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
1. Proof of Publication submitted on Notice of Public Hearing
Administrative Services Officer Miller stated the Resolution setting a Public Hearing Date for the Purpose of Implementing a Standby or Availability Charge for the 2002-2003 Water Year was published in the FreeLance on December 28, 2001.
2. Public Hearing/Meeting Regarding 2002-2003 Water Year Rates and Charges
Presentation of 2002-2003 Rates and Charges
District Manager Gregg presented the proposed rates and charges for the 2002-2003 Water Year and stated they reflected an Energy Use Charge. He stated the proposed rate increase, which includes the Energy Use Charge, effects only those systems that require pumping, such as 6H, 9H and 9L. He stated the District has an option to do nothing or extend the rate increase out a couple of years.
Open Public Hearing
President Keck opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting. Paul Hain stated he is getting benefit from design of the system and is thankful for the water pressure and quality. He stated he protests the increase and stated the increase would double his water bill.
Ron Silleto stated he grows grapes and stated he is willing to adjust his irrigation pattern to conserve water. He stated he protests the increase also. He stated he felt the higher cost of pumping was for domestic water and not irrigation.
District Manager Gregg stated for the record he received an e-mail from Bob Huenemann opposing the power charge.
Close Public Hearing or Continue to a Later Date
President Keck closed the Public Hearing portion of the meeting, hearing no further comment from the public.
Director Perry stated he farms in three different areas with three different charges. He stated it was common to pay higher charges in higher elevations. District Manager Gregg stated Staff would look at monthly and demand charges. Director Tobias stated the San Felipe water is supplemental water and farmers could use their wells.
District Manager Gregg stated the Board will hold another Public Hearing to set the rates and charges for the 2002-2003 Water Year.
Upon a motion duly made, seconded and unanimously carried Resolution 2002-01 Establishing Standby or Availability Charges for the 2002-2003 Water Year was adopted.
The vote of the Board was as follows, unless otherwise stated:
AYES: DIRECTORS: Perry, Keck, Tobias, DeLaCruz
NOES: DIRECTORS: None
ABSENT: DIRECTORS: Swanson
The Board adjourned to a Regular Meeting to be held on January 30, 2002 at 7:30 p.m., 30 Mansfield Road, Hollister, California.
Minutes were approved at the January 30, 2002 Regular Board Meeting by the presiding Board Member:
___________________________
Douglas Keck
President of the Board
ATTEST: _______________________________
Janet L. Miller
Administrative Services Officer