From the Department of Water Resources:
The Department of Water Resources (DWR) and the State Water Project (SWP) Contractors are extending the negotiation schedule to April 2021. The public negotiation process is expected to result in an Agreement in Principle (AIP) among DWR and the SWP Contractors that describes a methodology for cost allocation and the related matters that would be the basis of a contract amendment if a project is approved and after all necessary environmental review. Environmental analysis of the proposed amendments and of the underlying Delta conveyance facility itself will be conducted in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act. Development of actual contract amendment language would follow the AIP.
UPCOMING MEETING DATES
The next public negotiation meeting for the proposed amendments to the SWP water supply contracts is expected to take place on Monday, March 29, 2021. All public negotiation meetings will occur by phone and webinar only and are expected to start at 10:00 a.m. and adjourn by 12:00 p.m. Additional meetings may be scheduled as needed.
WEBINAR ACCESS TO UPCOMING MEETING(S)
Per the Governor’s direction on gatherings to protect public health and slow the spread of COVID-19, upcoming public meetings for the SWP Contract Amendment for Delta Conveyance will occur via phone and webinar only. Opportunities for public comment via conference call will occur as outlined in the forthcoming meeting agenda(s).
Negotiation Process
DWR has opened negotiations to the public to allow the opportunity to observe and provide comments to DWR at the end of each negotiation session. Written comments may also be submitted within seven (7) calendar days following each negotiation session. The process that DWR will follow to enable members of the public to observe and comment on the negotiations will be consistent with the “Principles Regarding Public Participation Process in SWP Contract Negotiations,” which were approved as part of the settlement agreement reached in the case titled, Planning and Conservation League et al.v. Department of Water Resources, 83 Cal.App.4th 892 (2000).
