LAFCO
Colusa Co. WD #1 - Grimes MSR
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MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW
FOR THE
COLUSA COUNTY WATERWORKS DISTRICT #1
IN
GRIMES, CALIFORNIA
LOCAL AGENCY FORMATION COMMISSION
OF
COLUSA COUNTY
February 5, 2009
Resolution 2009-0001
MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW FOR THE
COLUSA COUNTY WATERWORKS DISTRICT #1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.1 LAFCO’s Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.2 Municipal Service Review Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.3 LAFCO Policies and Procedures
Related to Municipal Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.4 Description of Public Participation Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.5 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.6 Preparation of the MSR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2. SERVICE AREA SETTING-GRIMES CALIFORNIA . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.1 Grimes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2 Colusa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.3 Climate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.4 Existing Municipal Services and Providers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3. COLUSA COUNTY WATERWORKS DISTRICT #1 . . . . . . . . . . .11
3.1 District Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
3.2 Groundwater Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.2.1 Groundwater Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
3.2.2 Groundwater Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
3.2.3 Sacramento Valley Groundwater Basin . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.2.4 Colusa Groundwater Subbasin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
A. Colusa Groundwater Subbasin Overview . . . ..
B. Colusa Groundwater Subbasin
Hydrogeologic Information . . . . . . . . ..
C. Colusa Subbasin Groundwater Level Trends ..
D. Colusa Subbasin Groundwater Storage . . . . ..
E. Colusa Subbasin Groundwater
Quality and Quantity . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
3.2.5 Colusa County Groundwater Management Plan . . . 18
3.3 Water Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3.4 Water Treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
3.5 Water Supply Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
3.6 Fire Flows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 2
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
3.7 Colusa County Waterworks District #1 Personnel . . . . . . . 21
3.8 Water Service Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
3.9 Colusa County Waterworks District #1 Finances . . . . . . . 23
3.10 Review of District Management Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
4. ZONING AND LAND USE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
5. MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW COLUSA COUNTY
WATERWORKS DISTRICT #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.1 Growth and Population Projections for the Grimes Area . . 28
5.1.1 Population Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 28
5.1.2 MSR Determinations on Growth and Population for
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 . . . . . 29
5.2 Capacity and Infrastructure for Colusa County
Waterworks District #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.2.1 Infrastructure Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.2.2 MSR Determinations Regarding Capacity and
Infrastructure for Colusa County
Waterworks District #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.3 Financial Ability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.3.1 Financial Ability of Colusa County Waterworks
District #1 to Provide Service . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
A. Municipal Financial Constraints Overview . . 31
B Financing Opportunities that Require
Voter Approval. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
C. Financing Opportunities that
Do Not Require Voter Approval . . . . . 31
5.3.2 Financial Considerations for Colusa County
Waterworks District #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
5.3.3 MSR Determinations on Financial Ability for
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 . . 32
5.4 Opportunities for Shared Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
5.4.1 Facilities of Colusa County Waterworks District #1 . 33
5.4.2 MSR Determinations on Shared Facilities for
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 . . . . 33
5.5 Government Structure and Accountability . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
5.5.1 Government Structure for Colusa County
Waterworks District #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
5.5.2 Management for Colusa County Waterworks
District #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
5.5.3 Public Participation Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
5.5.4 MSR Determinations on Government Structure
And Accountability for Colusa County
Waterworks District #1 . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR ii
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
REFERENCES 37
ABBREVIATIONS 39
REPORT PREPARERS 40
DEFINITIONS 41
DISTRICT MAPS 46
Grimes Air Photo 46
Grimes General Plan 47
Grimes Zoning 48
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR iii
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 LAFCO's Responsibilities
This Municipal Service Review (MSR) has been prepared for the Colusa Local
Agency Formation Commission (Colusa LAFCO). Local Agency Formation
Commissions are quasi-legislative local agencies created in 1963 to assist the
State in encouraging the orderly development and formation of local agencies.
This MSR consists of a review of water service as provided by the Colusa County
Waterworks District #1 in Grimes.
The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000
(Government Code §56000 et seq.) is the statutory authority for the preparation
of an MSR, and periodic updates of the Sphere of Influence of each local agency.
The Governor’s Office of Planning and Research has issued Guidelines for the
preparation of an MSR. This MSR adheres to the procedures set forth in the
MSR Guidelines.
A Sphere of Influence is a plan for the probable physical boundaries and service
area of a local agency, as determined by the affected Local Agency Formation
Commission (Government Code §56076). Government Code §56425(f) requires
that each Sphere of Influence be updated not less than every five years, and
§56430 provides that a Municipal Service Review shall be conducted in advance
of the Sphere of Influence update.
1.2 Municipal Service Review Requirements
The statute as amended by AB1744 and regulations call for a review of the
municipal services provided in the county or other appropriate area designated
by the LAFCO. The LAFCO is required, as part of the MSR, to prepare a written
statement of findings of its determinations with respect to each of the following:
1. Growth and Population
2. Capacity and Infrastructure
3. Financial Ability
4. Shared Facilities
5. Government Structure and Accountability
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 4
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
1.3 LAFCO Policies and Procedures Related to Municipal Services
The Colusa LAFCO adopted policies and procedures related to municipal
services on February 5, 2004, which were subsequently amended on August 2,
2007.
1.4 Description of Public Participation Process
Colusa LAFCO is a legislative body authorized by the California Legislature and
delegated powers as stated in the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government
Reorganization Act of 2000 (the Act). The LAFCO proceedings are subject to the
provisions California’s open meeting law, the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government
Code Sections 54950 et seq.) The Brown Act requires advance posting of
meeting agendas and contains various other provisions designed to ensure that
the public has adequate access to information regarding the proceedings of
public boards and commissions. Colusa LAFCO complies with the requirements
of the Brown Act.
The MSR Guidelines provide that all LAFCOs should encourage and provide
multiple public participation opportunities in the municipal service review process.
MSR policies have been adopted by the Colusa LAFCO. Colusa LAFCO has
discussed and considered the MSR process in open session, and has adopted a
schedule for completing the various municipal service reviews and sphere of
influence updates for Colusa County. Each municipal service review will be
prepared as a draft, and will be subject to public and agency comment prior to
final consideration by the Colusa LAFCO.
1.5 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
The Municipal Service Review is a planning study that will be considered by
LAFCO in connection with subsequent proceedings regarding the Colusa County
Waterworks District #1 Sphere of Influence. The Sphere of Influence review or
update that would follow has not been approved, or adopted or funded by
LAFCO.
This MSR is funded in the Colusa County LAFCO’s 2008-2009 Budget. This
MSR includes an analysis, to the extent required by Section 15262 of the CEQA
Guidelines, of the environmental factors that may be affected by the Municipal
Service Review process, but will not include the preparation of an environmental
review document.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 5
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
1.6 Preparation of the MSR
Research for this Municipal Service Review (MSR) was conducted over several
months from the fall of 2007 through October 2008. Since then, several
modifications have been made reflecting dynamic circumstances. This MSR is
intended to support preparation and update of Spheres of Influence, in
accordance with the provisions of the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Act. The
objective of this Municipal Service Review (MSR) is to develop recommendations
that will promote more efficient and higher quality service patterns; identify areas
for service improvement; and assess the adequacy of service provision as it
relates to determination of appropriate sphere boundaries.
While LAFCO prepared the MSR document, LAFCO did not engage the services
of experts in engineering, law enforcement, fire protection, recreation and other
specialists in related fields, but relied upon reports and district staff for
information. Therefore, this MSR reflects LAFCO’s recommendations, based on
available information during the research period and provided by district and
county staff to assist in its determinations related to promoting more efficient and
higher quality service patterns; identifying areas for service improvement; and
assessing the adequacy of service provision for the District.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 6
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
2 SERVICE AREA SETTING: GRIMES, CALIFORNIA
2.1 Grimes
The Community of Grimes is located on State Highway 45, south of Colusa and
ten miles east of Interstate 5. Grimes was settled in 1851 and was named for
Cleaton Grimes.1 Grimes has a community hall, a post office, a trailer park, a
community library, elementary school with a cafeteria, two bar/restaurants, and
an industrial facility.2
The Colusa County Housing Element states that although this community “is not
receiving the same level of housing development attention from the State Capitol
region as those (communities) on Interstate 5, preparation will be made by the
County to provide for a more diverse choice and availability of residential
zoning.”3
Seasonal changes in the Grimes area provide a view of rippling grass in the fall,
icicles hanging in crystal stalactites from bare orchard branches in the winter,
acres of snowy almond blossoms in the spring and golden browns and yellows of
maturing grain and rice in the summer.
Agriculture is the basis for the economy in the Grimes area. Local farmers do
careful preplanting ground preparation, and coordination of the scheduling of
man power and equipment. There is an unending need to be watchful as the crop
matures to determine nutrients and water needs as well as to be vigilant against
weeds or pests hindering growth.4
Colusa County had 21,272 residents in 2006 with 3.01 persons per household.5
Based on 100 residential water service connections6 this would mean that the
population of Grimes was 301. However, the District estimates the population at
450.7
1 McComish and Lambert, History of Colusa and Glenn Counties, Historic Record Company, Los Angeles, CA 1918.
p174.
2 NSF International, “Feasibility of an Economically Sustainable Point-of-Use/Point-of-Entry Decentralized Public Water
System Final Report”, March 2005, p18. nsf.org/business/.../pdf/GrimesFinalReport_Dec05.pdf
3 Colusa County, “Final Housing Element”, December 2003, page 4-12
4 Pierce Joint Unified School District
http://www.pierce.k12.ca.us/education/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=400
5 http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/06/06011.html
6 California Department of Health Services, “2006 Annual Report to the Drinking Water Program for Community Water
Systems Under 200 Service Connections for Year Ending December 31, 2006 Colusa County Waterworks District #1-
Grimes”
7 California Department of Health Services, “2006 Annual Report to the Drinking Water Program for Community Water
Systems Under 200 Service Connections for Year Ending December 31, 2006 Colusa County Waterworks District #1-
Grimes”
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 7
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
The Colusa County Housing Element shows “Vacant Residential Zoned Land in
the 100-Year Flood Zone” in Table 4-4. For the area of Grimes the land that is in
the Flood Zone is “all of Grimes”.8 This will make it difficult to attract new
development to Grimes.
2.2 Colusa County
Colusa County is located approximately thirty-five miles north of Sacramento,
along the I-5 corridor. The County is approximately thirty-five miles long (north to
south) and forty-five miles wide (east to west). It is bounded by Yolo, Sutter,
Butte, Glenn and Lake Counties. It is primarily a rural agricultural county with
21,272 residents in 2006.9
There are two incorporated cities: Colusa (5,000) and Williams (3,000). Interstate
5 bisects the County running north and south. To the west of I-5 is flat agricultural
land, running into the Coastal Mountain range. The highest point in the County is
located in the Coastal Range, at over 7,000 feet. East of I-5, the topography is
flat. The Sacramento River roughly forms the eastern boundary of the County.
Agriculture is the major industry in the County. Colusa was identified by UC
Davis Extension Specialist Al Sokolow as having the highest percentage
increase in agricultural growth in California during the period 1985-1995 (115%
increase).The total on-farm agricultural value in the County in 1997 was $333
million. This increased to over $484 million in 2007.10
The major crops produced include rice, processing tomatoes, almonds, wheat,
vegetable seeds, walnuts and prunes. Land is relatively inexpensive and water is
both available and high quality, compared to other California locations. While the
environment defines the breadth of crops produced locally, agriculture is clearly
increasing in importance. Rice remains the number one crop, with acreage
remaining fairly stable. There is currently a transition from row crops to perennial
crops (almonds, grapes, walnuts) and from low-value agronomic crops to higher
value vegetables or other row crops. Environmental issues (air quality, water
quality, soil degradation, etc.), commodity marketing, and economic sustainability
are the major challenges facing local producers.
The rural nature, low population, and ethnic makeup of Colusa County all
contribute to "quality of life" issues. There are not many organized activities or
employment opportunities for young people, so the local youth become bored
with the community and emigrate after graduating from high school. Retention of
young people is a problem because the current producers retire or exit farming.
8 Colusa County, “Final Housing Element”, December 2003, page 4-11.
9 http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/06/06011.html
10 Colusa County Department of Agriculture, “2007 Colusa County Crop Report”, 100 Sunrise Blvd. Suite F, Colusa CA
95932, Phone: 530-458-0580.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 8
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Due to a small consumer base, local merchants have difficulty remaining in
business and many residents export money out of Colusa by shopping in
neighboring counties. Economic development is a high community priority.
The school-age youth in the County are over 50 percent Hispanic, one of the
highest in the State. Cultural barriers, communication skills and community
infrastructure to support this segment of the citizens are all major challenges.
The Colusa County unemployment rate is often the highest in the State (reaching
over 30% during the winter months).11 The median household income in Colusa
County in 2004 was $38,350 with 11.7% below the poverty level.12
2.3 Climate
The climate in Grimes is typical of Colusa County and the Sacramento Valley,
and is generally described as having cold wet winters and warm dry summers.
Rainfall of the region is confined mainly to winter months and varies between 15
to 20 inches per year. Winters can be very cold for short periods while summers
are hot and dry, with practically no rain from May to September (Colusa County
General Plan, 1994).
The principal agricultural uses in the Grimes area are tree and field crops due to
the Community’s proximity to the Sacramento River with rich soils.
2.4 Existing Municipal Services and Providers
The Colusa County Waterworks District #1 provides water service to the
community of Grimes.
Other service providers in the Grimes area include the following:
• Sacramento River Fire Protection District
• Grand Island Cemetery District
• Reclamation District 108
The District has little interdependence with the surrounding area and is limited by
the nature of its services. It does provide water for fire protection purposes for
the Sacramento River Fire Protection District.
The County of Colusa provides streets, police protection, planning and
administrative services.
11
http://cecolusa.ucdavis.edu/profile.htm
12
http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/06/06011.html
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 9
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Grimes is part of the Pierce Joint Unified School District. The elementary school
is Grand Island Elementary at 551 Leven Street, Grimes, CA 95950, Phone 530-
437-2416, Fax 530-437-2296.13 The students attend junior high school and high
school in Arbuckle. The School District's student demographics include the
following ethnicity: 69% Hispanic, 28% White and 2% African American.
According to the School District, 67% of the students are on the free and reduced
cost lunch program.14
Grand Island Elementary School, Grimes, California15
13Pierce Joint Unified School District
http://www.pierce.k12.ca.us/education/school/school.php?sectiondetailid=65
14Pierce Joint Unified School District
http://www.pierce.k12.ca.us/education/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=400
15
NSF International, “Feasibility of an Economically Sustainable Point-of-Use/Point-of-Entry Decentralized Public
Water System Final Report”, March 2005, p18. nsf.org/business/.../pdf/GrimesFinalReport_Dec05.pdf
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 10
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
3 COLUSA COUNTY WATERWORKS DISTRICT #1
3.1 District Background
The Colusa County Waterworks District #1 was established in 1961.16 The
District operates under Sections 55000-55991 of the California Water Code
providing water for domestic purposes in the area of Grimes.17 The water system
was constructed in 1964.18
The Colusa County Housing Element describes the District as follows:
The town (Grimes) was served by individual wells until the late
1960’s. The new water system (at that time) alleviated a water
quality problem that had resulted from septic systems sited too
close to individual wells. However, the current water quality does
not meet proposed Federal standards for arsenic. The system
presently has two wells with a combined pumping capacity of 1,700
gpm and a 5,000 gallon pressurized water storage tank. At this
time, there appears to be adequate capacity to support the amount
of growth shown in the year 2010 Community Plan for Grimes.19
Grimes was the subject of an EPA-funded Study in 2002 to install Point-of-Use
(POU) water filtration devices (to remove arsenic) in the homes and businesses
of the community. The Study described Grimes as follows:
Grimes has no industry and many of its residents are farm laborers or
commute to work. Many residents live in rental trailers or very small
cabins. While there is no industry in Grimes there is, however, one
welding shop, two restaurants, a small store and two daycare centers.20
3.2 Groundwater Background
3.2.1 Groundwater Introduction
Groundwater is subsurface water occurring in a zone of saturation. In that zone,
water fills the pore spaces or openings in rock and sediments. Large basins in
the Central Valley can contain thousands of vertical feet of sediments washed in
over millions of years by runoff. The sediments are a randomly interfingered
mixture of fine-grained material that can restrict movement of groundwater and
16
Colusa County Auditor. “Special District Audits Fiscal Year 2005-06”.
17 Colusa County Auditor. “Special District Audits Fiscal Year 2005-06”.
18
Colusa County Waterworks District #1, Fred Durst, Director, Phone 437-2263, October 24, 2007.
19 Colusa County, “Final Housing Element”, December 2003, page 4-14
20
NSF International, “Feasibility of an Economically Sustainable Point-of-Use/Point-of-Entry Decentralized Public
Water System Final Report”, March 2005, p18. nsf.org/business/.../pdf/GrimesFinalReport_Dec05.pdf
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 11
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
coarse-grained material that constitutes the aquifers within a zone of saturation.
An aquifer is a geologic formation that stores, transmits, and yields significant
quantities of water to wells and springs.
The depth of water in wells in California's groundwater basins differs
considerably among basins and even in different parts of the same basin. The
water levels are affected by many factors, including the amount of recharge that
has occurred in previous years, the ratio of surface water to groundwater used,
the total number and location of wells extracting groundwater from the basin, the
amount of groundwater that flows out of the basin, and the total amount of
groundwater extracted from the basin.21
3.2.2 Groundwater Law
California groundwater law is complicated. Groundwater is classified as either
percolating groundwater or as a subterranean stream. Groundwater not flowing
as a subterranean stream is classified as percolating groundwater. When the
flow of groundwater is confined to a known and defined subsurface channel it is a
subterranean stream.
The California Supreme Court established the doctrine of correlative water rights
in 1903 that stated overlying users of percolating groundwater and riparian users
of subterranean streams must share the available supply. If a shortage exists,
each overlying or riparian right holder must cut their use to some degree.
Overlying and riparian users have priority over appropriators who may take only
surplus water.
Percolating groundwater is subject to different laws (known as groundwater law)
and recognizes two general types of rights, overlying and appropriative.
Subterranean streams are subject to surface water law that recognizes two
general types of rights:
• Riparian: inherent with ownership of overlying land.
• Appropriative: based on the concept of 'first in time, first in right' with a
priority date that determines the seniority of the right.
Groundwater also can be appropriated and diverted outside of groundwater
basins by cities, water districts, and other users whose lands do not overlie a
groundwater basin. In 1914, California created a water right permit process
governing the appropriation of surface water and subterranean streams.
21
http://rubicon.water.ca.gov/v1cwp/sgw.html
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 12
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Appropriations of subterranean streams require a permit from the State Water
Resources Control Board. The method for appropriating percolating groundwater
is to simply pump the water and put it to reasonable beneficial use. No State
permit is required.22
3.2.3 Sacramento Valley Groundwater Basin
The majority of Colusa County is considered part of the Sacramento River
Hydrologic Region. Hydrologic regions are defined as "major drainage basins" in
The California Water Plan. This means that most of the County's surface water
drains to the Sacramento River, eventually feeding the Pacific Ocean through the
Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.23 The Sacramento River Hydrologic Region
consists of 17.4 million acres in its entirety. Groundwater provides 31 percent of
the water supply from the 88 basins/subbasins delineated in the region. These
basins underlie 5.053 million acres.
The reliability of groundwater varies greatly. The Sacramento Valley is
recognized as one of the foremost groundwater basins in the State, and wells
developed in the sediments of the Valley provide excellent supply of groundwater
for irrigation, municipal and domestic uses.
3.2.4 Colusa Groundwater Subbasin
A. Colusa Groundwater Subbasin Overview
Contained within most of Colusa County is the Colusa Groundwater Subbasin, a
portion of the Sacramento Valley Basin bounded on the east by the Sacramento
River, on the west by the Coast Range and foothills, on the south by Cache
Creek, and on the north by Stony Creek.
Precipitation in this basin ranges from 17 to 27 inches per year with higher
precipitation occurring to the west. The Colusa sub-basin (basin 5-21.52)
contains 918,380 acres with average well yields of up to 5,600 gallons per minute
with an average well yield of 984 gallons per minute. (DWR Bulletin 118, 2003
page 159).
22
http://www.sonoma-county.org/edb/regguide/reghistorygroundwtrlaw.htm
23
http://www.nd.water.ca.gov/IndexFiles/WaterResources/Colusa/
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 13
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
B. Colusa Groundwater Subbasin Hydrogeologic Information
According to California’s DWR Groundwater Bulletin 11824
The Colusa Subbasin aquifer system is composed of continental
deposits of late Tertiary to Quaternary age. Quaternary deposits
include the following:
• Holocene stream channel and basin deposits and
• Pleistocene Modesto and Riverbank formations.
The Tertiary deposits consist of the two formations as follows:
• Pliocene Tehama Formation and
• The Tuscan Formation.
These formations are described in detail below:
Holocene Stream Channel Deposits:
These deposits consist of unconsolidated gravel, sand, silt, and
clay derived from the erosion, reworking, and deposition of adjacent
Tehama Formation and Quaternary stream terrace deposits. The
thickness varies from 1 to 80 feet. These deposits represent the
upper part of the unconfined zone of the aquifer and are
moderately-to-highly permeable; however, the thickness and
aeration extent of the deposits limit the water-bearing capability.
Holocene Basin Deposits:
These deposits are the result of sediment-laden floodwaters that
rose above the natural levees of streams and rivers and spread
across low-lying areas. They consist primarily of silts and clays and
may be locally interbedded with stream channel deposits along the
Sacramento River. Thickness of the unit ranges up to 150 feet.
These deposits have low permeability and generally yield low
quantities of water to wells. The quality of groundwater produced
from basin deposits is often poor.
24 California Department of Water Resources:
http://www.dpla2.water.ca.gov/publications/groundwater/bulletin118/basins/pdfs_desc/5-21.52.pdf
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 14
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Pleistocene Modesto and Riverbank Formations:
Terrace deposits include the Modesto Formation (deposited
between 14,000 and 42,000 year ago) and the Riverbank formation
(deposited between 130,000 and 450,000 year ago).
The Modesto deposits consist of moderately to highly permeable
gavels, sands, and silts. Thickness of the formation ranges from
less than 10 feet to nearly 200 feet across the valley floor.
The Riverbank deposits are the older terrace deposits that occur at
a higher topographic level and consist of poorly to highly pervious
pebble and small cobble gravels interlensed with reddish clay,
sand, and silt. Thickness of the formation ranges from less than 1
foot to over 200 feet depending on location. The formation yields
moderate quantities of water to domestic and shallow irrigation
wells and also provides water to deeper irrigation wells that have
multiple zones of perforation. Generally the thickness of the
formation limits the water-bearing capabilities.
Pliocene Tehama Formation:
The Tehama Formation is the predominant water-bearing unit
within the Colusa Subbasin and reaches a thickness of 2,000 feet.
The formation occurs at depths ranging from a few feet to several
hundred feet from the surface. The formation consists of
moderately compacted silt, clay, and fine silty sand enclosing
lenses of sand and gravel; silt and gravel; and cemented
conglomerate. Occasional deep sands and thin gravels constitute a
poorly to moderately productive, deep, water-bearing zone.
Pliocene Tuscan Formation:
The Tuscan Formation occurs in the northern portion of the
Subbasin at an approximate depth of 400 feet from the surface and
may extend to the Greenwood Anticline east of Interstate 5. The
formation is composed of a series of volcanic mudflows, tuff
breccia, tuffaceous sandstone, and volcanic ash layers.
The Arbuckle and Dunnigan Plains is a subarea of the Colusa
Subbasin.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 15
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
C. Colusa Subbasin Groundwater Level Trends
According to California’s DWR Groundwater Bulletin 11825
Review of hydrographs for long-term comparison of spring-spring
groundwater levels indicates a slight decline in groundwater levels
associated with the 1976-77 and 1987-94 droughts, followed by
recovery to pre-drought conditions of the early 1970’s and 1980’s.
Some wells increased in levels beyond the pre-drought conditions
of the 1970’s during the wet season of the early 1980’s. Generally,
groundwater level data show an average seasonal fluctuation of
approximate 5-feet for normal and dry years. Overall there does not
appear to be any increasing or decreasing trends in groundwater
levels.
D. Colusa Subbasin Groundwater Storage
According to California’s DWR Groundwater Bulletin 11826
The storage capacity of the Colusa Subbasin was estimated based
on estimates of specific yield for the Sacramento Valley as
developed by DWR. Estimates of specific yield, determined on a
regional basis, were used to obtain a weighted specific yield
conforming to the subbasin boundary. The estimated specific yield
for the subbasin is 7.1 percent. The estimated storage capacity to a
depth of 200 feet is approximately 13,025,887 acre-feet.
Estimates of groundwater extraction for the Colusa Subbasin are
based on surveys conducted by the California Department of Water
Resources during 1993, 1994, and 1999. Surveys included land
use and sources of water. Estimates of groundwater extraction
were as follows:
Use Groundwater Extracted
Agricultural 310,000 acre-feet
Municipal and Industrial 14,000 acre-feet
Environmental Wetland 22,000 acre-feet
Deep percolation from applied water is estimated to be 64,000
acre-feet.
25 California Department of Water Resources:
http://www.dpla2.water.ca.gov/publications/groundwater/bulletin118/basins/pdfs_desc/5-21.52.pdf
26 California Department of Water Resources:
http://www.dpla2.water.ca.gov/publications/groundwater/bulletin118/basins/pdfs_desc/5-21.52.pdf
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 16
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
E. Colusa Subbasin Groundwater Quality and Quantity
According to California’s DWR Groundwater Bulletin 11827
Colusa Subbasin Groundwater Characterization:
Calcium-magnesium bicarbonate and magnesium-calcium
bicarbonate are the predominant groundwater types in the Colusa
Subbasin. Mixed character waters for different regions of the
Colusa Subbasin occur as follows:
• Sodium bicarbonate waters from Wiliams-Colusa south to
Grimes
• Magnesium-sodium bicarbonate or sodium-magnesium
bicarbonate waters near Williams-Arbuckle area and locally
near Zamora
• Magnesium bicarbonate waters locally near Dunnigan.
Total dissolved solids (TDS) values range from 120 to 1,220 mg/L,
averaging 391 mg/L in the Colusa Subbasin.
Colusa Subbasin Groundwater Impairments:
High Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS),
adjusted sodium absorption ratio (ASAR), nitrate, and manganese
impairments occur near Colusa. High TDS and boron occur near
Knights Landing. High nitrates occur in Arbuckle, Knights Landing,
and Willows. Localized areas have high manganese, fluoride,
magnesium, sodium, iron, ASAR, chloride, TDS, ammonia, and
phosphorus.
The Sacramento River Basinwide Water Management Plan28 states the following
regarding water quality in the Colusa Subbasin:
Water quality problems exist in some portions of the Subbasin and
are most likely associated with leaching of alkaline soils. The
overall quality of groundwater is considered good to excellent for
most agricultural purposes. The overall quality of groundwater is
often poor for municipal purposes.
27 California Department of Water Resources:
http://www.dpla2.water.ca.gov/publications/groundwater/bulletin118/basins/pdfs_desc/5-21.52.pdf
28 California Department of Water Resources Northern District, “Sacramento River Basinwide
Water Management Plan”, January 2003, page 132.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 17
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
According to California’s DWR Groundwater Bulletin 11829 Colusa Subbasin
groundwater well yields are described as follows:
In the Colusa Subbasin municipal and irrigation wells yield from 25
to 5,600 gallons per minute with and average of 1,967 gallons per
minute based on 109 well completion reports.
Domestic well depths range from 11 to 870 feet with an average
depth of 155 feet based on 2,599 well completion reports. Municipal
and Irrigation wells range from 20 to 1,340 feet deep with the
average well 366 feet deep based on 1,515 well completion reports.
There are 42 public water agencies and 5 private water companies
in this Subbasin.
3.2.5 Colusa County Groundwater Management Plan
In September 2008, Colusa County released a Groundwater Management Plan
(GMP) in accordance with the California Water code, Section 10750. The overall
goal of the GMP is to ensure long-term sustainability of Colusa County’s
groundwater resources. The scope of this plan covers all of Colusa County
although very limited in service areas such as Grimes. Funding for this work was
provided by the California Department of Water Resources. The purpose of the
GMP is to promote responsible stewardship, be eligible for future grant funding
and to retain local control over water management decisions.30
3.3 Water Supply
The Colusa County Waterworks District #1 receives all municipal water
exclusively from underground sources. The District uses 36 million gallons
annually. The maximum day is 182,000 gallons, which is an average peak of
1,716 gallons per day (gpd) per connection compared to Princeton WWD at
2,545 gpd. The maximum month is July with 5 million gallons.31 The District
extracts groundwater from one main well 223 feet deep32 and has one standby
well.33
29 California Department of Water Resources:
http://www.dpla2.water.ca.gov/publications/groundwater/bulletin118/basins/pdfs_desc/5-21.52.pdf
30
Colusa County Groundwater Management Plan Main Report, page 1, September 2008.
31
California Department of Health Services, “2006 Annual Report to the Drinking Water Program for Community Water
Systems Under 200 Service Connections for Year Ending December 31, 2006 Colusa County Waterworks District #1-
Grimes”
32 California Department of Water Resources Northern District, “Sacramento River Basinwide
Water Management Plan”, January 2003, page 85.
33
Colusa County Waterworks District #1, Fred Durst, Director, Phone 437-2263, October 24, 2007.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 18
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
3.4 Water Treatment
According to the EPA Study
Small community water treatment has posed an enormous problem
for the drinking water regulatory community, drinking water
professionals, and the people living in these communities. The Safe
Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and subsequent regulations require
that all water in the distribution system and at every tap connected
to the distribution system comply.
This essentially mandates central treatment prior to entering the
distribution system. No water that exceeds a primary standard may
be used for drinking water. Primary standards have been
developed to protect human health and are rigorously enforced by
the Department of Health Services. For very small communities,
this may be a cost that poses an undue burden. Often it could be a
cost that has negative public health implications. For a very low-
income family, the money spent on water treatment may not be
available for other essentials.
Rather than spend that money, a community may apply for a
variance or exemption. Exemptions and variances are intended to
be temporary solutions to regulatory compliance. They may,
however, extend indefinitely leaving a community with no water that
meets the regulation.
Point-of-use (POU) treatment provides an alternative by treating a
portion of water for less cost. The new arsenic regulation mostly
affects small communities. This may be the time when this
alternative treatment technology may be the best choice.34
Secondary standards are intended to protect the taste, odor or appearance of
drinking water. California Code requires that, if a community water system
experiences an exceedance of certain secondary standard, quarterly sampling
must be initiated. Compliance is then determined based upon the average of four
consecutive quarterly samples. Non-compliant water must then be treated to
meet the secondary standards.35
34 NSF International, “Feasibility of an Economically Sustainable Point-of-Use/Point-of-Entry Decentralized Public
Water System Final Report”, March 2005, p18. nsf.org/business/.../pdf/GrimesFinalReport_Dec05.pdf
35 Brelje & Race Consulting Civil Engineers, “Preliminary Engineering Report Bonanza Springs Water System CSA #7
Lake County Special Districts”, December 2006, page 8.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 19
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
The Colusa County Waterworks District #1 water is treated with sodium
hypochlorite for Coliform bacteria.36
3.5 Water Supply Infrastructure
Water distribution systems carry water for both domestic use and for fire
protection. The distribution system should be sized to perform both functions
simultaneously, delivering sufficient water volume and pressure. Pipes should be
made of durable and corrosion-resistant materials, and alignments located in
areas that are easy to access for repairs and maintenance.37 Fire hydrants
should be placed a maximum of 600 feet apart along the water mains and a
maximum of 500 feet from the end of water lines.38
Some water loss in the distribution system can be expected. Water loss is the
difference between the volume of water pumped from the water supply well and
the volume of water sold to users. A loss of water from 5% to 15% is considered
acceptable.39
The District has 10640 connections (100 residential, 5 commercial and 1
agricultural). The District has 8-inch to 2-inch pipelines. The larger pipelines are
made of transite (50% cement and 50% asbestos before 1980)41 but the 2-inch
lines are either plastic or metal.42 There are 10 fire hydrants.43
3.6 Fire Flows
Urban water systems must maintain adequate water pressure in order to provide
adequate fire flow. The Sacramento River Fire Protection District, assuming the
role of County Fire Marshall in its district, uses State fire flow requirements,
which identify fire flow requirements based on building are, constructions type
and occupancy. There are no other requirements for water pressure, although
customers expect adequate pressure for typical uses.
36
California Department of Health Services, “2006 Annual Report to the Drinking Water Program for Community Water
Systems Under 200 Service Connections for Year Ending December 31, 2006 Colusa County Waterworks District #1-
Grimes”
37 Brelje & Race Consulting Civil Engineers, “Preliminary Engineering Report Bonanza Springs Water System CSA #7
Lake County Special Districts”, December 2006, page 10
38 Brelje & Race Consulting Civil Engineers, “Preliminary Engineering Report Bonanza Springs Water System CSA #7
Lake County Special Districts”, December 2006, page 11
39 Brelje & Race Consulting Civil Engineers, “Preliminary Engineering Report Starview Water System CSA #18 Lake
County Special Districts”, December 2006, page 4.
40
California Department of Health Services, “2006 Annual Report to the Drinking Water Program for Community
Water Systems Under 200 Service Connections for Year Ending December 31, 2006 Colusa County Waterworks
District #1-Grimes”
41 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transite
42
Colusa County Waterworks District #1, Fred Durst, Director, Phone 437-2263, October 24, 2007.
43 Colusa County Waterworks District #1, Fred Durst, Director, Phone 437-2263, October 24, 2007.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 20
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Fire flow requirements for one and two-family buildings is a minimum of 1,000
gpm depending on the size of the structure (2001 UFC, Division III. fire-flow
requirements for buildings).
The Sacramento River Fire Protection District reports the following regarding the
water available for fire protection in Grimes:
The Sacramento River Fire Protection District cannot meet the required
fire flow on the initial response in the town of Grimes due to the
inadequate water system operated by Colusa County Water Works District
#1.
The Fire Protection District must rely on mutual aid response of water
tenders. The problem arises to find an adequate water source to refill the
water tenders.
Presently the water source would be Thayer Aviation located one mile
north of Grimes. It is estimated that the Fire Protection District could meet
the required fire flows for the town of Grimes once a water shuttle is
established with water tenders and the existing water system.44
3.7 Colusa County Waterworks District #1 Personnel
The District has no paid personnel but relies on the volunteer Board of Directors
and independent contractors for all services.45 The Board has Simon Robles
handle the billing.46 The treatment plant operator is Rex Monroe (operator Grade
D2) who comes once per week. 47
The Distribution system operator is Lance Swift (Operator Grade D1) from
Grimes. He inspects the system once per month in return for free water.48
44
Winters, Jeffrey, Fire Chief, Sacramento River Fire Protection District, Questionnaire, February 10, 2006.
45 Colusa County Waterworks District #1, Fred Durst, Director, Phone 437-2263, October 24, 2007.
46 California Department of Health Services, “2006 Annual Report to the Drinking Water Program for Community Water
Systems Under 200 Service Connections for Year Ending December 31, 2006 Colusa County Waterworks District #1-
Grimes”
47 California Department of Health Services, “2006 Annual Report to the Drinking Water Program for Community Water
Systems Under 200 Service Connections for Year Ending December 31, 2006 Colusa County Waterworks District #1-
Grimes”
48 Colusa County Waterworks District #1, Fred Durst, Director, Phone 437-2263, November 13, 2007
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 21
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
3.8 Water Service Rates
The District charges $5.00 per connection per month. Bills are sent out twice per
year so each bill is $30. There are no water meters.49
Rates for other water service providers in the area are shown below:
District/Agency Monthly Service Connection Fee
Charge- Water
City of Colusa $11.45 + extra $822 Meter Fee
if over $21,360
10,000 cu. ft. Impact Fee
City of Williams
$8.00 + $1,770
consumptive fee
Arbuckle PUD $12.00 $1,000
Maxwell PUD $29.34 $1,750
Princeton
Waterworks $25 $800
District
Source: Colusa Local Agency Formation Commission
The rates shown above are still low even though they are higher than the rate
charged by Colusa County Waterworks District #1. For comparison, the median
domestic water rate in Yuba County is $38.15 per month.50
The EPA-funded study states that
The EPA affordability threshold of 2.5% of median household income
indicates that the households of Grimes could afford as much as $60 per
month for water service....The basic problem is that the residents of
Grimes have become accustomed to paying only $5 per month for water
service. The cost of water service combined with arsenic removal will
produce what is termed in the regulatory environment as rate shock....
However, the unaddressed issue is the monthly charge for basic water
service in Grimes that would maintain a viable distribution system
infrastructure over the long-term and that would compensate for the costs
of the service presently being provided in-kind.51
49 Colusa County Waterworks District #1, Fred Durst, Director, Phone 437-2263, October 24, 2007.
50 Yuba LAFCO, “Final Municipal Service Review: County of Yuba”, July 24, 2008, page72.
51
NSF International, “Feasibility of an Economically Sustainable Point-of-Use/Point-of-Entry Decentralized Public
Water System Final Report”, March 2005, p50. nsf.org/business/.../pdf/GrimesFinalReport_Dec05.pdf
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 22
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
3.9 Colusa County Waterworks District #1 Finances
On June 30, 2006, the District had $72,985 on deposit with the Colusa County
Treasurer, which included $56,146 in reserves. The District maintained a record
of all expenditures. The Auditor had no recommendations.52 The District had
$13,533 revenue in 2005 which included $11,025 in water service charges and
$2,508 in interest.53
The following information is provided by the Colusa County Auditor-Controller:54
Colusa Fund Estimated Total Estimated Total
County Balance Additional Available Financing Financing
Waterworks Unreserved/ Financing Financing Uses Requirements
Districts Undesignated Sources
June 30, June 30, 2006
2006
Colusa $72,985 $14,000 $86,985 $13,350 $13,350
County #1
Princeton $5,582 $67,065 $72,647 $62,310 $62,310
The Colusa County Auditor-Controller provides the following information
regarding revenue to the Colusa County Waterworks District #1:55
Revenue Actual Actual Adopted Adopted Actual
Classification Revenue Revenue Budget Budget Revenue
2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2007-0856
Interest $1,778 $ 2,508 $ 2,000 $2,000 $4,326.05
Water Charges/ $9,053 $11,025 $12,000 $28,000 $29,361.7557
Hook-ups
52 Colusa County Auditor. “Special District Audits Fiscal Year 2005-06”.
53 Colusa County Auditor. “Special District Audits Fiscal Year 2005-06”.
54 Colusa County “Summary of Special District Budgets for Fiscal Year 2006-07”
55 Colusa County, “Analysis of Revenue by Source Budget for Fiscal Year 2006-2007” Page 396.
56 Colusa County Auditor, “Revenue Status Report 2007-2008” Colusa County Waterworks District #1, August 25,
2008
57 Additional income was for one year only. Additional income was from selling extra water to gas well drilling
companies. Colusa County Auditor’s Office, Janet Daily, Phone 530-458-0400. August 26, 2008.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 23
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
The Colusa County Auditor-Controller provides the following information
regarding the budget for the Colusa County Waterworks District #1:58
Expenditure Actual Actual Adopted Expenditure
Classification Expenditure Expenditure Budget 2007-0859
2004-05 2005-06 2006-07
Maintenance- $3385 $4487 $5000 $3902.71
Equipment
Maintenance- $129 $29 $200 0
Structures
Misc. Expense $20 0 0 0
Office Expense 0 $271 $300 $78.31
Professional/ $2887 $2434 $3000 $2965.00
Specialized Services
Small Tools & $224.12
Instruments
Special Department $738 $521 $500 $576.53
Expenses
Utilities $3336 $4236 $4300 $4921.70
Total $10,496 $12,005 $13,350 $12,668.37
3.10 Review of District Management Structure
A 5-member Board of Directors governs the Colusa County Waterworks District
#1. The Board of Directors meets at Art’s Welding, 343 Main Street, Grimes
(phone 530-2231) as needed.
The following are members of the Board of Directors:
Fred Durst: 530-437-2263
John Keller: 530-437-2528
Arlan Moore: 530-437-2482
Art Olivares60: 530-437-2283
vacant61
58 Colusa County, “Analysis of Expenditure by Source Budget for Fiscal Year 2006-2007” Page 397
59 Colusa County Auditor, “Expenditure Status Report 2007-2008” Colusa County Waterworks District #1, August 25,
2008.
60 Colusa County Auditor, “Special District Audits Fiscal Year 2005-06”.
61
Colusa County Board of Supervisors Clerk, Yolanda Tirado, Phone: 530-458-0508, E-Mail:
cocolusa@countyofcolusa.org
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 24
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
The Board members are appointed for indefinite terms and serve at the will of the
Colusa County Board of Supervisors.
Contact Information for the District is as follows:
Colusa County
Waterworks District #1
PO Box 131
Grimes, CA 95950
The District maintains no liability insurance according to the Auditor62; however
the Board states that they do have insurance through a local insurance
company.63
The EPA-funded study stated the following:
Their weakest attribute was administration. Their record keeping was
inconsistent. They weren’t aware of some connections....It was also
recommended that they join the California Rural Water Association
(CRWA). There are many issues they need to deal with....They need to
implement a new rate structure....64
4. ZONING AND LAND USE
The Colusa County General Plan Land Use Designations within the Colusa
County Waterworks District #1 are as follows:
AT Agricultural Transition
C Commercial
I Industrial
PS Public/Semi-Public Services
RR Rural Residential
UR Urban Residential
The special Agricultural Transition (A-T) designation is described in the Colusa
County General Plan as follows:
The intent of the A-T land use designation is two-fold: first, to recognize
areas where land has already been subdivided into small parcels (less
than 10 acres) for ranchettes, part-time farms, and orchards; and second,
62 Colusa County Auditor. “Special District Audits Fiscal Year 2005-06”.
63Colusa County Waterworks District #1, Fred Durst, Director, Phone 437-2263, November 13, 2007.
64
NSF International, “Feasibility of an Economically Sustainable Point-of-Use/Point-of-Entry Decentralized Public
Water System Final Report”, March 2005, p52. nsf.org/business/.../pdf/GrimesFinalReport_Dec05.pdf
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 25
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
to identify vacant areas which may be suitable for urban uses in the future
but which are not suitable at this time due to a lack of urban service and
their distance from the established community (Colusa County General
Plan, 1989).
This A-T land serves as a buffer area until municipal services are feasible.
These lands can be redesignated through a General Plan Amendment process if
determined necessary by the County.
The Colusa County Housing Element states that “The vacant land designated for
residential uses within the County could accommodate approximately 9,439
additional units....Ample vacant land is available in various zones for each of the
communities in the County...”65 The Colusa County Housing Element includes
the following table to show the zoning in Grimes:66
65 Colusa County, “Final Housing Element”, December 2003, page 4-10
66Colusa County, “Final Housing Element”, December 2003, page 4-6.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 26
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Table 4-1d GRIMES Number of Parcels by Zone
R-R R-1-6 R-1-8 R-2 R-3 PD
Zone Zone Zone Zone Zone Zone
Total 18 - 13 - - -
Acres acres acres
Number of 6 - 15 - - -
Parcels parcels parcels
Density of 1 DU/ 1 DU/ 1 DU/ 2 DU/ 2 DU/ Depends
Development acre 6,000 8,000 8,000 8,000 sq ft + upon PD
square square square add. DU per approval
feet with feet feet with 2,000 sq ft
public with public with public
water/ public water/ water and
sewer water/ sewer sewer
sewer
Potential 18 DU - 70 DU - - -
Maximum # of
units
# of parcels 4 - 11 - - -
vacant parcels parcels
Vacant 12 - 5 acres - - -
Acreage acres
# or parcels 2 - 4 - - -
underutilized parcels parcels
Underutilized 6 - 8
Acreage acres acres
The land surrounding the District is zoned “AG, Agriculture-General”.
Maps showing the General Plan Land Use Designations and the Zoning are at
the end of this report.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 27
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
5 MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW
COLUSA COUNTY WATERWORKS DISTRICT #1
Colusa LAFCO is responsible for determining if an agency is reasonably capable
of providing needed resources and basic infrastructure to serve areas within its
boundaries and, later, within the Sphere of Influence.
LAFCO will evaluate the present and long-term infrastructure demands and
resources available to the District, analyze whether resources and services are,
or will be, available at needed levels, and determine whether orderly
maintenance and expansion of such resources and services are planned to occur
in line with increasing demands.
The Final Municipal Service Review Guidelines prepared by the Governor’s
Office of Planning and Research recommend issues relevant to the jurisdiction
be addressed through written determinations called for in the Cortese-Knox
Hertzberg Act.
Written Determinations are provided for each of the five factors, based on the
information provided in this Municipal Service Review.
5.1 Growth and Population Projections for the Grimes Area
Purpose:
To evaluate service needs based on existing and anticipated growth
patterns and population projections.
5.1.1 Population Growth
The Colusa County population is expected to increase as follows:
Colusa County Population Projections
Projected Percentage
Year Population Increase
2000 18,923
2010 22,697 20%
2020 26,337 16%
2030 29,353 11%
2040 32,499 11%
2050 35,544 9%
(California State Department of Finance and The Great Valley Center)
It is unlikely that the population of Grimes will increase significantly because the
land within the District is in the Flood Zone. However, the District should still be
prepared for a population increase based on the information shown in the Colusa
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 28
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
County Housing Element. If the vacant parcels were developed to the maximum
allowed by the County Zoning Designations, the District could have an additional
88 dwelling units, almost double the existing number of units.
5.1.2 MSR Determinations on Growth and Population for Colusa County
Waterworks District #1
1-1) The District should establish requirements for future annexations.
1-2) The District should communicate with the Colusa County Planning
Department to make sure that the District is involved in planning decisions
which will affect the District.
5.2 Capacity and Infrastructure for Colusa County Waterworks District
#1
Purpose:
To evaluate the infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply,
capacity, condition of facilities, and service quality.
LAFCO is responsible for determining that an agency is reasonably capable of
providing needed resources and basic infrastructure to serve areas within its
boundaries and later in the Sphere of Influence.
It is important that such determinations of infrastructure availability occur when
revisions to the Sphere of Influence and annexations occur.
5.2.1 Infrastructure Background
The Colusa County Waterworks District #1 infrastructure has changed little since
its original construction in 1964. The water service is barely adequate but the
District does not seem to be prepared for future maintenance, expansion or
increased regulation.
An example of increased regulation could be that the State may require that all
water systems be metered or double metered (with a separate meter for
landscaping) to increase water conservation.
5.2.2 MSR Determinations Regarding Capacity and Infrastructure for
Colusa County Waterworks District #1
2-1) The District should develop a Master Plan to show the existing capacity
and how the water service infrastructure will be upgraded in the future.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 29
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
2-2) The District should develop a Capital Improvement Plan for maintaining
and improving the infrastructure as shown in the Master Plan.
2-3) The District does not have additional capacity to provide for more
domestic customers since the fire flows are inadequate.
2-4) The District should make installation of water meters a high priority. A rate
schedule should then be established that charges more for higher water
use.
5.3 Financial Ability
Purpose:
To evaluate factors that affect the financing of needed improvements and
to identify practices or opportunities that may help eliminate unnecessary
costs without decreasing service levels.
LAFCO should consider the ability of the District to pay for improvements or
services associated with annexed sites. This planning can begin at the Sphere
of Influence stage by identifying what opportunities there are to identify
infrastructure and maintenance needs associated with future annexation and
development, and identifying limitations on financing such improvements, as well
as the opportunities that exist to construct and maintain those improvements.
LAFCO should consider the relative burden of new annexations to the community
when it comes to its ability to provide public safety and administrative services,
as well as capital maintenance and replacements required as a result of
expanding District boundaries.
Rate restructuring may be forced by shortfalls in funding, but the process may
also reflect changing goals and views of economic justice or fairness within the
community. LAFCO should evaluate the impact of SOI and Annexation decisions
on existing community rates for public water service.
5.3.1 Financial Ability of Colusa County Waterworks District #1
to Provide Services
A. Municipal Financial Constraints Overview
Municipal service providers are constrained in their capacity to finance services
by the inability to increase property taxes, requirements for voter approval for
new or increased taxes, and requirements of voter approval for parcel taxes and
assessments used to finance services. Municipalities must obtain majority voter
approval to increase or impose new general taxes and two-thirds voter approval
for special taxes.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 30
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Limitations on property tax rates and increases in taxable property values are
financing constraints. Property tax revenues are subject to a formulaic allocation
and are vulnerable to State budget needs. Agencies formed since the adoption
of Proposition 13 in 1978 often lack adequate property tax financing.
B. Financing Opportunities that Require Voter Approval
Financing opportunities that require voter approval include the following:
• special taxes such as parcel taxes,
• increases in general taxes such as utility taxes,
• sales and use taxes,
• business license taxes, and
• transient occupancy taxes.
Communities may elect to form business improvement districts to finance
supplemental services, or Mello-Roos districts to finance development-related
infrastructure extension. Agencies may finance facilities with voter-approved
(general obligation) bonded indebtedness.
C. Financing Opportunities that Do Not Require Voter Approval
Financing opportunities that do not require voter approval include imposition of or
increases in fees to more fully recover the costs of providing services, including
user fees and development impact fees to recover the actual cost of services
provided and infrastructure. Development impact fees and user fees must be
based on reasonable costs, and may be imposed and increased without voter
approval. Development impact fees may not be used to subsidize operating
costs. Agencies may also finance many types of facility improvements through
bond instruments that do not require voter approval.
Water rates and rate structures are not subject to regulation by other agencies.
Utility providers may increase rates annually, and often do so. Generally, there is
no voter approval requirement for rate increases, although notification of utility
users is required. Water providers must maintain an enterprise fund for the
respective utility separate from other funds, and may not use revenues to finance
unrelated governmental activities.
5.3.2 Financial Considerations for Colusa County Waterworks District #1
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 31
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Primary resources for the District include water service assessments and interest
with primary disbursements going toward maintenance and utilities. Although the
people within the District are primarily in the lower economic sector the unusually
low water service charge of $5.00 per month severely limits the District’s ability to
provide adequate water service.
5.3.3 MSR Determinations on Financial Ability for Colusa County
Waterworks District #1
3-1) The District maintains acceptable accounting practices.
3-2) The District should plan for the future and have a program of gradually
increasing fees to cover increasing costs.
3-3) The District should maintain a connection fee for its water service to cover
100% of the costs associated with new development.
3-4) The District or County should explore the possibilities for any grants which
could help the District.
3-5) The District should prepare a Capital Improvement Plan to be prepared for
future capital expenditures.
3-6) The District should become familiar with Community Facilities Districts
and Mello-Roos Bonds as a means for new development to pay
infrastructure costs.
3-7) LAFCO recommends preparation of a Cost of Services Study to ensure
that the fees charged bear a reasonable nexus to the cost of providing that
service. This report should provide a comprehensive analysis of the
services provided by the District and actual costs of those services to the
residents.
3-8) Due to the scarcity of resources in the District, it is imperative that the
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 set fees and charges in line with
the services provided to allow for continuous operation and adequate
maintenance.
3-9) The District has a small budget. Additional funds would be required to
service additional territory.
3-10) LAFCO recommends establishing District ordinances that promote full
cost recovery (cost neutral) for annexations so that the existing residents
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 32
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
shall not have to pay increased rates due to a new development being
annexed to the District.
5.4 Opportunities for Shared Facilities
Purpose:
To evaluate the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and
resources to develop more efficient service delivery systems.
5.4.1 Facilities of Colusa County Waterworks District #1
In the case of annexing new lands into a District, LAFCO can evaluate whether
services or facilities can be provided in a more efficient manner if the District or
some other entity provides them (i.e., the County of Colusa, a County Service
Area, or Community Services District). In some cases, it may be possible to
establish a cooperative approach to facility planning by encouraging the District
and County to work cooperatively in such efforts.
5.4.2 MSR Determinations on Shared Facilities for Colusa County
Waterworks District #1
4-1) Grimes is isolated from other water systems in the County so shared
facilities are not easy to achieve.
4-2) The District does provide fire hydrants so they do share this facility with
the Sacramento River Fire Protection District.
4-3) Shared administration may provide cost-savings. Some counties
administer many special districts through a single county department.
5.5 Government Structure and Accountability
Purpose:
To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government
structures that could provide public services, to evaluate the management
capabilities of the organization and to evaluate the accessibility and levels
of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and
management processes.
One of the most critical components of LAFCO’s responsibilities is in setting
logical service boundaries for communities based on their capacity to provide
services to affected lands. LAFCO may consider the agency’s record of local
accountability in its management of community affairs as a measure of the ability
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 33
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
to provide adequate services to the Sphere of Influence and potential annexation
areas.
While public sector management standards do vary depending on the size and
scope of an organization, there are minimum standards. Well-managed
organizations do the following:
1. evaluate employees annually,
2. prepare a budget before the beginning of the fiscal year,
3. conduct periodic financial audits to safeguard the public trust,
4. maintain current financial records,
5. periodically evaluate rates and fees,
6. plan and budget for capital replacement needs,
7. conduct advance planning for future growth, and
8. make best efforts to meet regulatory requirements.
Most of the professionally managed and staffed agencies implement many of
these best management practices. Many of the smaller special districts serving
the area are staffed by board members or volunteers, and do not implement such
practices. LAFCO encourages all local agencies to conduct timely financial
record-keeping and make financial information available to the public.
5.5.1 Government Structure for Colusa County Waterworks District #1
Restructuring the governmental operation may not be a feasible option for the
Colusa County Waterworks District #1; however, continued examination of
service delivery and cost may from time to time reveal opportunities for such
changes.
A County Service Area could be considered even though there will be a loss of
local control because the Colusa County Board of Supervisors would serve as
the Board of Directors. County employees would provide maintenance functions.
Efficiencies may or may not occur and could result in higher costs to the
residents.
The Board could contact the County Public Works Department regarding the cost
of a contract for maintenance of the District facilities to see if this would be a
feasible option.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 34
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
5.5.2 Management of Colusa County Waterworks District #1
In evaluating the District’s capability to serve its Sphere of Influence, LAFCO can
examine the District’s ability to maintain management and budget efficiencies
over the new lands. Using the Management Practices listed above the Colusa
County Waterworks District #1 would be evaluated as follows:
Water Agency Colusa County Waterworks
Management Practice District #1
Evaluate employees annually Adequate
Prepare timely budget Adequate
Periodic financial audits Adequate
Current financial records Adequate
Evaluate rates Not practiced
Capital planning Not practiced
Advance growth planning Not practiced
Compliance Efforts Adequate
5.5.3 Public Participation Opportunities
The Colusa County Waterworks District #1 has a five member Board of Directors.
The Board meets as needed.
The Brown Act (California Government Code Section 54950 et seq.) is intended
to insure that public boards shall take their actions openly and that deliberations
shall be conducted openly.
The Brown Act establishes requirements for the following:
• Open meetings
• Agendas that describe the business to be conducted at the meeting
• Notice for meetings
• Meaningful opportunity for the public to comment
• Few exceptions for meeting in closed sessions and reports of items
discussed in closed sessions.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 35
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
According to California Government Section 54959
Each member of a legislative body who attends a meeting of that
legislative body where action is taken in violation of any provision of this
chapter, and where the member intends to deprive the public of
information to which the member knows or has reason to know the public
is entitled under this chapter, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
Section 54960 states the following:
(a) The district attorney or any interested person may commence an
action by mandamus, injunction or declaratory relief for the purpose of
stopping or preventing violations or threatened violations of this chapter by
members of the legislative body of a local agency or to determine the
applicability of this chapter to actions or threatened future action of the
legislative body,...
It is the responsibility of LAFCO to consider the record of the local agency when
making determinations.
5.5.4 MSR Determinations on Government Structure and Accountability
for Colusa County Waterworks District #1
5-1) The Board of Directors should work with the Board of Supervisors, the
Local Agency Formation Commission and other districts in the County to
see if establishment of a County Service Area would be a benefit.
5-2) The District could explore the possibility of contracting with another district
for administrative services.
5-3) The District could develop more programs aimed at improving customer
service such as development of a Mission Statement, distribution of a
District Newsletter, or development of a website for increased
dissemination of District information (such as meeting times, projects,
etc.).
5-4) The District sends information to its customers on an as-needed basis.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 36
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
REFERENCES
American Water Works Association, Drinking Water Treatment and Distribution
Operator Certification FAQ, www.ca-nv.awwa.org/cert/certfaq.htm.
Brelje & Race Consulting Civil Engineers, “Preliminary Engineering Report
Bonanza Springs Water System CSA #7 Lake County Special Districts”,
December 2006, page 11
Brelje & Race Consulting Civil Engineers, “Preliminary Engineering Report
Starview Water System CSA #18 Lake County Special Districts”,
December 2006, page 4.
California Department of Finance and The Great Valley Center, Population
Projections.
California Department of Health Services, “2006 Annual Report to the Drinking
Water Program for Community Water Systems Under 200 Service
Connections for Year Ending December 31, 2006 Colusa County
Waterworks District #1-Grimes”
California, Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, “General Plan
Guidelines, 2003”.
Colusa County, “Analysis of Expenditure by Source Budget for Fiscal Year 2006-
2007” Page 397
Colusa County, “Analysis of Revenue by Source Budget for Fiscal Year 2006-
2007” Page 396.
Colusa County, Colusa County General Plan Final, January 13, 1989.
Colusa County, “Final Housing Element”, December 2003
Colusa County “Summary of Special District Budgets for Fiscal Year 2006-07”
Colusa County Auditor, “Expenditure Status Report 2007-2008” Colusa County
Waterworks District #1, August 25, 2008.
Colusa County Auditor, “Revenue Status Report 2007-2008” Colusa County
Waterworks District #1, August 25, 2008
Colusa County Auditor, “Special District Audits Fiscal Year 2005-06”.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 37
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Colusa County Auditor’s Office, Janet Daily, Phone 530-458-0400. August 25,
2008, August 26, 2008.
Colusa County Board of Supervisors Clerk, Yolanda Tirado, Phone: 530-458-
0508, E-Mail: cocolusa@countyofcolusa.org
Colusa County Department of Agriculture, “2007 Colusa County Crop Report”,
100 Sunrise Blvd. Suite F, Colusa CA 95932, Phone: 530-458-0580
Colusa County Waterworks District #1, Fred Durst, Director, Phone 437-2263,
October 24, 2007, November 13, 2007, August 25, 2008.
Department of Water Resources. Bulletin 118 California’s Groundwater, 2003.
http://www.dpla2.water.ca.gov/publications/groundwater/bulletin118/basins/pdfs_
desc/5-21.52.pdf
Department of Water Resources Northern District, “Sacramento River Basinwide
Water Management Plan,” January 2003
Wood Rodgers, Inc. , Colusa County Groundwater Management Plan,
September 2008
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transite
http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/dictionary.html
http://rubicon.water.ca.gov/v1cwp/glssry.html
McComish and Lambert, History of Colusa and Glenn Counties, Historic Record
Company, Los Angeles, CA 1918. p174.
NSF International, “Feasibility of an Economically Sustainable Point-of-
Use/Point-of-Entry Decentralized Public Water System Final Report”,
March 2005, nsf.org/business/.../pdf/GrimesFinalReport_Dec05.pdf
Pierce Joint Unified School District
http://www.pierce.k12.ca.us/education/components/scrapbook/default.php
?sectiondetailid=400
Uniform Fire Code Appendix III-A Fire Flow Requirements for Buildings, page 1-
317, 2001
University of California, Davis, http://cecolusa.ucdavis.edu/profile.htm
US Bureau of Census, http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/06/06011.html
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 38
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Winters, Jeffrey, Fire Chief, Sacramento River Fire Protection District,
Questionnaire, February 10, 2006.
ABBREVIATIONS
AB Assembly Bill
ASAR adjusted sodium absorption ratio
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CIP Capital Improvement Plan
CKH Act Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000
CPA Community Planning Area
CSA County Service Area
CRWA California Rural Water Association
District Colusa County Waterworks District #1
DHS Department of Health Services
DWR Department of Water Resources (California)
EC Electrical Conductivity
EDU equivalent dwelling unit
EPA Environmental Protection Agency (US)
GMP Groundwater Management Plan
gpd gallons per day
gpm gallons per minute
LAFCO Local Agency Formation Commission
mgd million gallons per day
mg/L Milligrams per Liter
MSR Municipal Service Review
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 39
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
POU Point-of-Use
psi pounds per square inch
SDWA Safe Drinking Water Act
SOI Sphere of Influence SOI
SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board
TDS total dissolved solids
UC University of California
USDA United States Department of Agriculture
REPORT PREPARERS:
Colusa LAFCO
John Benoit, Executive Officer
PO Box 2694, Granite Bay CA 95746
Christy Leighton
Planning Consultant
555 East Willow Street, Willows CA 95988
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 40
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
DEFINITIONS
acre-foot (acre-ft): The volume of water required to cover 1 acre of land (43,560 square
feet) to a depth of 1 foot. Equal to 325,851 gallons or 1,233 cubic meters.67
Agriculture: Use of land for the production of food and fiber, including the growing of
crops and/or the grazing of animals on natural prime or improved pasture land.
Aquifer: An underground, water-bearing layer of earth, porous rock, sand, or gravel,
through which water can seep or be held in natural storage. Aquifers generally hold
sufficient water to be used as a water supply.
Bond: An interest-bearing promise to pay a stipulated sum of money, with the principal
amount due on a specific date. Funds raised through the sale of bonds can be used for
various public purposes.
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA): A State Law requiring State and local
agencies to regulate activities with consideration for environmental protection. If a
proposed activity has the potential for a significant adverse environmental impact, an
environmental impact report (EIR) must be prepared and certified as to its adequacy
before taking action on the proposed project.
Community Facilities District: Under the Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982
(Section 53311, et seq.) a legislative body may create within its jurisdiction a special tax
district that can finance tax-exempt bonds for the planning, design, acquisition,
construction, and/or operation of public facilities, as well as public services for district
residents. Special taxes levied solely within the district are used to repay the bonds.
Community Services District (CSD): A geographic subarea of a county used for
planning and delivery of parks, recreation, and other human services based on an
assessment of the service needs of the population in that subarea. A CSD is a taxation
district with independent administration.
domestic water use: Water used for household purposes, such as drinking, food
preparation, bathing, washing clothes, dishes, and dogs, flushing toilets, and watering
lawns and gardens. About 85% of domestic water is delivered to homes by a public-
supply facility, such as a county water department. About 15% of the Nation's population
supply their own water, mainly from wells.68
flood, 100-year: A 100-year flood does not refer to a flood that occurs once every 100
years, but to a flood level with a 1 percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any
given year.69
67 http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/dictionary.html
68 http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/dictionary.html
69 http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/dictionary.html
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 41
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Formation: A laterally continuous rock unit with a distinctive set of characteristics that
make it possible to recognize and map from one outcrop or well to another. The basic
rock unit of stratigraphy. 70
Gravity flow: Flow of water in a pipe on a descending path.
Groundwater: Water under the earth’s surface, often confined to aquifers capable of
supplying wells and springs.
Groundwater basin: A groundwater reservoir, defined by an overlying land surface and
the underlying aquifers that contain water stored in the reservoir. In some cases, the
boundaries of successively deeper aquifers may differ and make it difficult to define the
limits of the basin.71
Impact Fee: A fee, also called a development fee, levied on the developer of a project
by a county, or other public agency as compensation for otherwise-unmitigated impacts
the project will produce. California Government Code Section 66000, et seq., specifies
that development fees shall not exceed the estimated reasonable cost of providing the
service for which the fee is charged. To lawfully impose a development fee, the public
agency must verify its method of calculation and document proper restrictions on use of
the fund.
Infrastructure: Public services and facilities such as sewage-disposal systems, water-
supply systems, and other utility systems, schools and roads.
Land Use Classification: A system for classifying and designating the appropriate use
of properties.
Leapfrog Development; New development separated from existing development by
substantial vacant land.
Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO): A five-or seven-member commission
within each county that reviews and evaluates all proposals for formation of special
districts, incorporation of cities, annexation to special districts or cities, consolidation of
districts, and merger of districts with cities. Each county’s LAFCO is empowered to
approve, disapprove, or conditionally approve such proposals. The LAFCO members
generally include two county supervisors, two city council members, and one member
representing the general public. Some LAFCOs include two representatives of special
districts.
Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL): The designation given by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) to water-quality standards promulgated under the Safe
Drinking Water Act. The MCL is the greatest amount of a contaminant that can be
present in drinking water without causing a risk to human health.72
Mean Sea Level: The average altitude of the sea surface for all tidal stages.
70 http://geology.com/dictionary/glossary-f.shtml
71 http://rubicon.water.ca.gov/v1cwp/glssry.html
72 http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/dictionary.html
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 42
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Mello-Roos Bonds: Locally issued bonds that are repaid by a special tax imposed on
property owners within a community facilities district established by a governmental
entity. The bond proceeds can be used for public improvements and for a limited number
of services. Named after the program’s legislative authors.
Milligrams per liter (mg/L): The weight in milligrams of any substance dissolved in one
liter of liquid; nearly the same as parts per million.
Municipal water system: A water system that has at least five service connections or
which regularly serves 25 individuals for 60 days; also called a public water system.73
Ordinance: A law or regulation set forth and adopted by a governmental authority.
Per capita water use: The water produced by or introduced into the system of a water
supplier divided by the total residential population; normally expressed in gallons per
capita per day (gpcd).74
Percolation: The downward movement of water through the soil or alluvium to a
groundwater table.75
Planning Commission: A body, usually having five members, created by the County in
compliance with California law (Section 65100 of the Government Code) which requires
the assignment of the planning functions of the County of a planning department,
planning commission, hearing officers, and/or the Board of Supervisors itself, as deemed
appropriate by the Board of Supervisors.
Pleistocene Epoch: The first epoch of the Quaternary Period, beginning 2 to 3 million
years ago and ending approximately 10,000 years ago.76
Potable water: Water of a quality suitable for drinking.77
Quaternary: The second period of the Cenozoic era, following the Tertiary; also, the
corresponding system of rocks. It began 2 to 3 million years ago and extends to the
present. It consists of two grossly unequal epochs; the Pleistocene, up to about 10,000
years ago, and the Holocene since that time.78
Ranchette: A single dwelling unit occupied by a non-farming household on a parcel of
2.5 to 20 acres that has been subdivided from agricultural land.
73 http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/dictionary.html
74 http://rubicon.water.ca.gov/v1cwp/glssry.html
75 http://rubicon.water.ca.gov/v1cwp/glssry.html
76 http://www.webref.org/geology/p/pleistocene_epoch.htm
77 http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/dictionary.html
78 http://www.webref.org/geology/q/quaternary.htm
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 43
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Sanitary Sewer: A system of subterranean conduits that carries refuse liquids or waste
matter to a plant where the sewage is treated, as contrasted with storm drainage
systems (that carry surface water) and septic tanks or leech fields (that hold refuse
liquids and waste matter on-site).
Service area: The geographical land area served by a distribution system of a water
agency.79
Sphere of Influence (SOI): The probable physical boundaries and service area of a
local agency, as determined by the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) of
the county.
Total dissolved solids (TDS): A quantitative measure of the residual minerals
dissolved in water that remain after evaporation of a solution. Usually expressed in
milligrams per liter.80
Turbidity: The amount of solid particles that are suspended in water and that cause light
rays shining through the water to scatter. Thus, turbidity makes the water cloudy or even
opaque in extreme cases. Turbidity is measured in Nephelometric Turbidity Units
(NTU).81
Water quality: Used to describe the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of
water, usually in regard to its suitability for a particular purpose or use.82
Water year: A continuous 12-month period for which hydrologic records are compiled
and summarized. In California, it begins on October 1 and ends September 30 of the
following year.83
Urban: Of, relating to, characteristic of, or constituting a city. Urban areas are generally
characterized by moderate and higher density residential development (i.e., three or
more dwelling units per acre), commercial development, and industrial development, and
the availability of public services required for that development, specifically central water
and sewer service, an extensive road network, public transit, and other such services
(e.g., safety and emergency response). Development not providing such services may
be “non-urban” or “rural”. CEQA defines “urbanized area” as an area that has a
population density of at least 1,000 persons per square mile (Public Resources Code
Section 21080.14(b)).
Urban Services: Utilities (such as water, gas, electricity, and sewer) and public services
(such as police, fire protection, schools, parks, and recreation) provided to an urbanized
or urbanizing area.
79 http://rubicon.water.ca.gov/v1cwp/glssry.html
80 http://rubicon.water.ca.gov/v1cwp/glssry.html
81 http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/dictionary.html#T
82 http://rubicon.water.ca.gov/v1cwp/glssry.html
83 http://rubicon.water.ca.gov/v1cwp/glssry.html
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 44
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Zoning: The division of a county by legislative regulations into areas, or zones, that
specify allowable uses for real property and size restrictions for buildings within these
areas; a program that implements policies of the general plan.
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 45
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 46
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 47
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009
Colusa County Waterworks District #1 MSR 48
Adopted Resolution 2009-0001
February 5, 2009