San Rafael, CA – Prompted by concerns about the worsening drought, the Marin County Board of Supervisors has invited administrators from local water agencies to discuss recommended actions during the Jan. 28 Board meeting at the Marin County Civic Center.
“As we enter this new year following one in which so little rain fell, it is natural for residents and businesses to be concerned about the reliability of our county’s water supply during this extended drought period,” Board President Kate Sears said. “Our Board and the public want to understand about current supply capabilities and challenges as well drought-related actions that might need to be taken later this year if winter rains do not arrive in sufficient amounts.”
A presentation coordinated by Marin Municipal Water District (MMWD) General Manager Krishna Kumar is expected to begin at about 10:30 a.m. in the Board chambers, Room 328, and will be followed by a public comment and question period. Participating agencies include the MMWD, the North Marin Water District, the Bolinas Community Public Utility District, the Inverness Public Utility District, the Muir Beach Community Services District, the Coast Springs Water Company, the Estero Mutual Water Company and the Stinson Beach County Water Agency.
In addition, County Agricultural Commissioner Stacy Carlsen plans to provide an update on what the drought is doing to Marin agricultural producers, and County staff will describe proactive measures being taken by other departments directly affected by the dry weather such as Marin County Parks, Marin County Fire and the Department of Public Works.
"No current issue poses a greater risk to our residents, businesses and environment than the possibility of a prolonged drought,” said Supervisor Steve Kinsey, who represents agriculturally rich District 4. “Although talking about the weather never changed it, this forum will give the public and our Board an accurate understanding of what each of the water agencies in Marin is doing and the additional conservation efforts we should all be taking."
The County of Marin does not have direct responsibilities for water supply, but accurate information is essential when public anxiety may be rising. The Board presentation also gives residents a chance to understand the challenges faced by water supply agencies and what government agencies can do to support them.
As usual, the Board meeting will be shown live on the County’s website and public access television – Community Media Center of Marin and Novato Public Access Television. Both show County meetings on Channel 27 for Comcast subscribers. Webcasts are archived for later viewing.