LAFCO
Sewer Districts Final MSR
Read the report at Local Agency Formation Commissions ↗
Final Wastewater Services
Municipal Service Review
Prepared for
Solano LAFCO
February 27, 2017
Final
Municipal Service Review
Wastewater Services
Prepared for:
Solano LAFCO
675 Texas Street, Suite 6700
Fairfield, California 94533
www.solanolafco.com
Prepared by:
February 27, 2017
MSR Table of Contents
Acronyms and Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i
1: Introduction
1-1: Role and Responsibility of LAFCO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1-2: Purpose of the Municipal Service Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1-3: Methodology for this MSR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1-4: Sphere of Influence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1-5: Public Participation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
2: Executive Summary 2-1
3: Fairfield Suisun Sewer District
3.1: District Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.2: Growth and Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
3.3: Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
3.4: Present and Planned Capacity of Public Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-31
3.5: Financial Ability to Provide Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-44
3.6: Status and Opportunities for Shared Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-57
3.7: Government Structure and Accountability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-60
3.8: LAFCO Policies Affecting Service Delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-66
3.9: Summary of Determinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-67
3.10: Issues with Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-71
3.11: References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-73
4: Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District
4.1: District Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
4.2: Growth and Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4.3: Present and Planned Land Use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
4.4: Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4.5: Present and Planned Capacity of Public Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
4.6: Financial Ability to Provide Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-32
4.7: Status and Opportunities for Shared Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-51
4.8: Government Structure and Accountability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-54
4.9: LAFCO Policies Affecting Service Delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-60
4.10: Summary of Determinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-60
4.11: Issues with Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-64
4.12: References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-66
5. Comments Received 5-1
6. Glossary 6-1
7. Acknowledgements 7-1
Appendices
Regulations A-1
FSSD District Brochure A-2
VSFCD Timeline A-3
Solano County Economic Forecast by Caltrans A-4
Drainage Maintenance Agreement A-5
List of Tables
2.1: Summary of 2 Wastewater Districts
2.2: FSSD Board of Directors
2.3: VSFCD Board of Trustees
3.1: FSSD Geographic Summary
3.2: Historic and Existing Population, City of Fairfield
3.3: Historic and Existing Population, Suisun City
3.4: Projected Population Growth in Cities (2010–2040)
3.5: FSSD Projected Population Growth (2010–2040)
3.6: Potential Future Development Areas in Acres
3.7: Unincorporated Islands in the Fairfield Suisun Area
3.8: Parcel Size in Woolner Hamilton Area
3.9: Median Household Income in Unincorporated Islands
3.10: Pump Station Flows
3.11: Summary of FSSD WWTP Capacity
3.12: Summary of FSSD Permits from State Water Board
3.13: SSO Rates
3.14: Financial Performance Indicators
3.15: FSSD’s Schedule 2 Condensed Statements of Revenues
3.16: FSSD’s Schedule 2 Condensed Statements of Expenses
3.17: FSSD Reserve Funds
3.18: FSSD Investment Summary
3.19: Monthly Service Charges
3.20: Sewer Capacity Charges
3.21: Performance Indicators for FSSD Board
3.22: MSR KPIs for Meeting Management
3.23: Issues with Recommendations
4.1: VSFCD Geographic Summary
4.2 Summary of Boundary Related LAFCo Actions
4.3: Historic and Existing Population
4.4 Population Projections for Vallejo
4.5: Vallejo / Benicia Area Island Summary
4.6: 11 Unincorporated Islands with Census Data
4.7: Summary of Sewer Connections in District
4.8: Financial Performance Indicators
4.9: Condensed Statements of Revenues
4.10: Condensed Statements of Expenses and Changes in Net Position
4.11: Changes in Net Position
4.12: Changes in Net Position (continued)
4.13: Cash & Investments
4.14: Long-term debt
4.15: Comparison of Wastewater Rates
List of Figures
3.1: Map of FSSD boundary and sphere of influence
3.2: Map of Extended Service Area for Old Cordelia
3.3: Map of Extended Service Area Suisun Valley
3.4: Rockville Hills Area
3.5: ABAG Priority Areas
3.6: Unincorporated Island Territories from LAFCO
3.7: DWR DACs
3.8: ABAG Communities of Concern
3.9: Census Block Groups
3.10: Census Block Groups
3.11: Flow Schematic
3.12: Discharge Locations
3.13: Average Annual Dry Weather Flow
3.14: FSSD Revenue, 2015
3.15: FSSD Expenses 2015
3.16: FSSD Revenues and Expenses
3.17: Nearby Districts
3.18: FSSD Organizational Chart
4.1: VSFCD Boundaries
4.2: Housing Opportunity Sites
4.3: Map of Unincorporated Islands near Vallejo
4.4: DWR DACs
4.5: ACS Median Household Income Map
4.6: Historic Map
4.7: Flood Zones in Vallejo
4.8: Vallejo Area Watersheds
4.9: Revenues FY 14/15
4.10: VSFCD Expenses FY 14/15
4.11: Total Net Position
4.12: VSFCD Operating Revenues and Expenses
4.13 VSFCD Organizational Chart
ACRONYMS
ABAG Association of Bay Area Governments
ACS American Community Survey
ADWF Average Dry Weather Flow
AF Acre-Feet
AFB Air Force Base
AMP Asset Management Plan
BMP Best Management Practices
BRAC Base Realignment and Closure
CAFR Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CIP Capital Improvement Plan
CKH Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Reorganization Act of 2000
CCTV Closed Circuit Television
DAC Disadvantaged Community
DUC Disadvantaged Unincorporated Community
DWR Department of Water Resources
EDU Equivalent Dwelling Unit
FSSD Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District
FY Fiscal Year
FTE Full-Time Equivalent
GAAP Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
GASB Government Accounting Standards Board
GIS Geographic Information System
GPM Gallons per Minute
I/I Infiltration and Inflow
LAFCO Local Agency Formation Commission
MGD Million Gallons per Day
MHI Median Household Income
MSR Municipal Services Review
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
OM&R Operation, Maintenance, and Repair
PDWF Peak dry-weather flow includes daily sanitary (wastewater) flow
PWWF Peak wet-weather flow includes infiltration and inflow
RDI/I Rainfall-dependent infiltration and inflow
RTP Regional Transportation Plan
RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board
SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition; a software application
SCS Sustainable Communities Strategy
SFR Single Family Residence
SIMMS Sewer Information Maintenance and Management System. A computer program.
SIU Significant Industrial User
SOI Sphere of Influence
SSMP Sewer System Management (Master) Plan
SSO Sanitary Sewer Overflow
SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board
UWMP Urban Water Management
VSFCD Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District
WDR Waste Discharge Requirement
WMP Water Master Plan
WRF Water Recycling Facility
WWTP Wastewater Treatment Plant
Final Wastewater Services MSR
Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1: ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITY OF LAFCO
Local Agency Formation Commissions (LAFCO’s) are independent agencies that were
established by state legislation in 1963 in each county in California to oversee changes in local
agency boundaries and organizational structures. It is LAFCO’s responsibility to:
oversee the logical, efficient, and most appropriate formation of local cities and special
districts,
provide for the logical progression of agency boundaries and efficient expansion of
municipal services,
assure the efficient provision of municipal services, and
discourage the premature conversion of agricultural and open space lands (Government
Code [GC] §§ 56100, 56301, 56425, 56430, 56378).
The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg (CKH) Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 (CKH Act)
requires each LAFCO to prepare a MSR for its cities and special districts. MSRs are required
prior to or in conjunction with the update of a Sphere of Influence (SOI). This review is intended
to provide Solano LAFCO with the necessary and relevant information related to two
wastewater service providers within the County, specifically regarding the appropriateness of
each service provider’s existing and proposed boundaries and SOI.
ABOUT SOLANO LAFCO
Although each LAFCO works to implement the CKH Act, there is flexibility in how these state
regulations are implemented so as to allow adaptation to local needs. As a result, Solano
LAFCO has adopted policies, procedures and principles that guide its operations (adopted on
March 1, 1999 and last updated on April 8, 2013). The policies and procedures can be found on
Solano LAFCO’s website (http://www.solanolafco.com/).
This MSR is an information tool that can be used to inform the public, facilitate cooperation
among agency managers and LAFCO to achieve the efficient delivery of services. Describing
existing efficiencies in service deliveries and suggesting new opportunities to improve
efficiencies is a key objective of this MSR, consistent with LAFCO’s purposes. Since this MSR
will be published on LAFCO’s website, it also contributes to LAFCO’s principle relating to
transparency of process and information. A public hearing will be conducted by LAFCO on this
MSR, thereby contributing to LAFCO’s aim of encouraging an open and engaged process.
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This MSR was written under the auspices of the Solano LAFCO. Solano LAFCO is a public
agency with five regular Commissioners and three alternate Commissioners as follows:
Staff / Administrative
Roseanne Chamberlain, Interim Executive Officer
Michelle McIntyre, Analyst
Additional Information
Additional reference documents, such as previous MSR’s or sphere studies are available from
LAFCO’s office and website and contact information is shown below:
Solano LAFCO
Attn: Roseanne Chamberlain, Interim Officer
675 Texas Street, Suite 6700
Fairfield, California 94533
Phone: (707) 439-3897
http://www.solanolafco.com/
1.2: PURPOSE OF THE MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW
MSRs are intended to provide LAFCO with a comprehensive analysis of services provided by
each of the special districts and other service providers identified within this MSR and that fall
under the legislative authority of the LAFCO. This review will provide Solano LAFCO with the
information and analysis necessary to evaluate existing boundaries and consider spheres of
influence for these service providers. The MSR makes determinations in each of seven
mandated areas of evaluation, providing the basis for LAFCO to review proposed changes to a
service provider’s boundaries or SOI. An SOI is defined in GC § 56425 as “a plan for the
probable physical boundary and service area of a local agency or municipality as determined by
the Commission.” LAFCO is required to adopt an SOI for each city and each agency in its
jurisdiction.
Ideally, an MSR will support not only LAFCO but will also provide the following benefits to the
subject agencies:
Provide a broad overview of agency operations including type and extent of services
provided
Serve as a prerequisite for a sphere of influence update (included herein)
Evaluate governance options and financial information
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Demonstrate accountability and transparency to LAFCO and to the public
Allow agencies to compare their operations and services with other similar agencies
This MSR is designed to provide technical and administrative information on each of the two
wastewater service providers to Solano LAFCO, so that LAFCO can make informed decisions
based on the best available data for each service provider and area. Written determinations, as
required by law, are presented in Sections 3.10 and 4.10 MSR Determinations of this MSR for
LAFCO’s consideration. LAFCO is ultimately the decision maker on approval or disapproval of
any determinations, policies, boundaries, and discretionary items.
1.3 METHODOLOGY FOR THIS MSR
In accordance with GC § 56430, LAFCO must prepare municipal service reviews prior to or in
conjunction with review of SOIs for the agencies within its jurisdiction. The CKH Act indicates
that LAFCO should review and update a sphere of influence every five years, as necessary,
consistent with GC § 56425(g) and § 56106. This MSR evaluates the structure and operation of
each of the two wastewater service providers and discusses possible areas for streamlining,
improvement, and coordination. Key references and information sources for this study were
gathered for each agency considered. The references utilized in this study include published
reports; review of agency files and databases (agendas, minutes, budgets, contracts, audits, etc.);
master plans; capital improvement plans; engineering reports; EIRs; finance studies; general
plans; and state and regional agency information (permits, reviews, communications,
regulatory requirements, etc.). Additionally, the consulting team, in coordination with the
LAFCO Executive Officer, sent each District a Request for Information, and the Districts’
responses to these requests were a key information source. Members of the consultant team also
conducted site visits and personal interviews with each District.
This MSR forms the basis for specific judgments, known as determinations, about each agency
that LAFCO is required to make (GC § 5425, 56430). These determinations are described in the
MSR Guidelines from the Office of Planning & Research (OPR) as set forth in the CKH Act, and
they fall into seven categories, as listed below:
1. Growth and population projections for the affected area
2. Location and characteristics of any disadvantaged unincorporated communities within
or contiguous to the sphere of influence
3. Present and planned capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services
including infrastructure needs or deficiencies
4. Financial ability of agency to provide services
5. Status of, and opportunities for, shared facilities
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6. Accountability for community service needs, including government structure and
operational efficiencies
7. Any other matter related to effective or efficient service delivery, as required by
commission policy
An MSR must include an analysis of the issues and written determination(s) for each of the
above determination categories.
1.4: SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 requires that
LAFCO adopt and periodically update a Sphere of Influence (SOI or Sphere) for each city and
special district within the county. A SOI is "a plan for the probable physical boundaries and
service areas of a local agency" (GC §56076). In determining the Sphere of Influence for an
agency, LAFCO must consider and prepare written determinations with respect to five factors
[Government Code §56425(e)]. These factors relate to the present and planned land uses
including agricultural and open-space lands, the present and probable need for public facilities
and services, the present capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services, the
existence of any social or economic communities of interest in the area, and the present and
probable need for public facilities and services of any disadvantaged unincorporated
communities within the existing sphere.
This document considers two wastewater districts, the Fairfield Suisun Sewer District and the
Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District. LAFCO’s files indicate that neither of these two
districts have a current SOI.
1.5: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Solano LAFCO received a presentation for discussion of the Draft MSR on December 12, 2016.
Comments from the public were solicited for a 30-day comment period. No comments from the
public were received. The public hearing on the Final MSR is scheduled for February 27, 2017.
After this MSR is finalized, it will be published on the Commission’s website
(http://www.solanolafco.com/), thereby making the information contained herein available to
anyone with access to an internet connection. A copy of this MSR may also be viewed during
posted office hours at LAFCO’s office located at 675 Texas St. Suite 6700, Fairfield CA 94533. In
addition to this MSR, LAFCO’s office maintains files for each service provider and copies of
many of the planning documents and studies that were utilized in the development of this
MSR. These materials are also available to the public for review.
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California Environmental Quality Act
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is contained in Public Resources Code §
21000, et seq. Under this law public agencies are required to evaluate the potential
environmental effects of their actions. Specifically, LAFCO is required to comply with CEQA
(Bozung v. LAFCO (1975) 13 Cal.3d 263). This MSR is exempt from CEQA under a Class 6
categorical exemption. CEQA Guidelines § 15306 states that “Class 6 consists of basic data
collection, research, experimental management, and resource evaluation activities that do not
result in a serious or major disturbance to an environmental resource.” Although MSRs are not
subject to CEQA, it is noted that if LAFCO acts to establish or update a SOI for the district,
CEQA requirements must be satisfied. The lead agency for future CEQA documents would
most likely be LAFCO.
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Chapter 2: Executive Summary
This Municipal Service Review (MSR) addresses major issues of service delivery and efficiency
and includes an analysis and a written statement of conclusions, known as determinations, for
each of the following factors:
Growth and population projections for the affected area
Disadvantaged unincorporated communities
Present and planned capacity of public facilities
Financial ability of the agency to provide services
Opportunities for shared facilities
Accountability for government service needs
Any other matter relative to service delivery as required by Commission Policy
The specific determinations and the key facts that support each determination for each service
provided are discussed in Chapters 3 and 4. The areas of description and analysis contain the
essential operational and management aspects for the two service providers and together
constitute a review of the ability of the providers to meet the service demands of the residents
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within their boundaries. The services considered in this MSR are wastewater collection,
treatment, and disposal along with water recycling, storm drainage management, and flood
control. These services are primarily provided to residents and visitors by the two special
districts, in cooperation with nearby cities. The Districts are typically operated under the
provisions of their “principal acts,” and they govern the provision of one or more public
services. Boundaries and spheres of influence are determined by their Local Agency Formation
Commission (LAFCO). This MSR addresses the two wastewater service providers in Solano
County: the Fairfield Suisun Sewer District (Chapter 2) and the Vallejo Sanitation & Flood
Control District (Chapter 3).
2.1: SUMMARY OF DISTRICTS
The Fairfield Suisun Sewer District and the Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District were last
reviewed by LAFCO in a MSR in 2006. A concise summary of FSSD is provided in Appendix A-
2 (District Brochure). A timeline summarizing VSFCD’s 60 years of service is provided in
Appendix A-3. The following table summarizes key features of the two Districts evaluated in
this MSR.
Table 2.1. Summary of 2 Wastewater Districts
Fairfield Suisun Sewer Vallejo Sanitation & Flood
District Control District
Population (per 2010 US
140,400 124,134
Census)*
Size (sq. mi.) 44.7 36
Sewage collection, treatment,
Wastewater collection,
and disposal, water
Services treatment, and disposal and
recycling, storm drainage
Flood Control Services
management
54,000 separate sewer
# of sewer connections connections that ultimately 37,804
serve 140,400 residents
Gross Revenue (2015) $28,049,378 $30,790,632
Monthly rate for a SFR $36.35 $43.35
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Profile of Fairfield Suisun Sewer District
Name of District: Fairfield Suisun Sewer District
Type of District: Sanitation District
Enabling Legislation: Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District Act Chapter 303, Statues of 1951
Functions/Services: Sewage collection, treatment, and disposal, water recycling, storm drainage
management
Main Office: 1010 Chadbourne Rd., Fairfield, Ca 94534
Mailing Address: Same
Phone No.: (707) 429-8930
Fax No.: N/A
Web Site: http://www.fssd.com/
Email Address: gbaatrup @ fssd.com
Contact Person: Gregory G. Baatrup, General Manager
Phone: (707) 429-8930
Governing Body: Table 2.2: FSSD Board of Directors
Director Title Representing Term Expiration
Chuck Timm President City of Fairfield November 2018
Mike Segala Vice President Suisun City November 2020
Pam Bertani Director City of Fairfield November 2020
Jane Day Director Suisun City November 2018
Mike Hudson Director Suisun City November 2018
Catherine Moy Director City of Fairfield November 2018
Harry Price Director City of Fairfield November 2018
Pete Sanchez Director Suisun City November 2018
Rick Vaccaro Director City of Fairfield November 2020
Lori Wilson Director Suisun City November 2020
Meeting Schedule: Fourth Monday of each month at 6 p.m. in the.
Meeting Location: Board Room at 1010 Chadbourne Road, Fairfield, California
Date of Formation: May 5, 1951, *per California Code Chapter 303, 1951
Principal County: Solano County
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Profile of Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District
Name of District: Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District
Type of District: Sanitation and Flood Control District
Enabling Legislation: State of California, Act 8934
Functions/Services: Wastewater and Flood Control Services
Main Office: 450 Ryder Street, Vallejo, CA 94590
Mailing Address: same as above
Phone No.: (707) 644-8949
Fax No.: N/A
Web Site: https://www.vsfcd.com
Email: mmorton@vsfcd.com
Contact Person: Melissa Morton, District Manager Phone: (707)644-8949
Alternate Contact: Holly Charlety, District Clerk Phone: (707)644-8949
Governing Body: Board of Trustees (Staggered Four-year Terms)
Table 2.3: VSFCD Board of Trustees
Director Title Term Expiration
Jess Malgapo Trustee, Vice-President January 2019
Bob Sampavan Trustee January 2021
Pippin Dew-Costa Trustee January 2019
Erin Hannigan Trustee January 2018
Robert McConnell Trustee January 2021
Katy Miessner Trustee January 2019
Hermie Sunga Trustee January 2021
Rozzana Verder-Aliga Trustee January 2021
Meeting Schedule: Second Tuesday of every month at 6:00 p.m.
Meeting Location: Vallejo City Hall, 555 Santa Clara Street in Vallejo
Date of Formation: April 19, 1952
Principal County: Solano County
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2.2: SUMMARY OF FACTORS
Chapters 3 and 4 provide more detailed information on issues and challenges faced by the two
Districts. For the purposes of this Executive Summary, however, the most crucial wastewater
problems facing the Districts now or in the recent past are encapsulated below.
Growth and Population Projections
Solano County has experienced substantial growth over the past few decades, especially in
urban areas located near Interstate 80. The cities of Fairfield and Suisun City are clustered
together in the central part of the County, while Vallejo is located in the southern portion of the
County adjacent to the Delta. In the future, Solano County is projected to have approximately
four percent of the Bay Area’s future growth in households and jobs. The population of Solano
County is expected to exceed a half million by the year 2040, which represents an addition of
100,000 people above today’s population (ABAG, 2013). These new future residents represent
potential customers of the wastewater treatment service providers described in this MSR.
Future population levels are used to predict future service demands. An economic forecast of
Solano County is provided in Appendix A-4.
A population of 140,400 resides within FSSD’s boundaries. A population of 124,134 resides
within VSFCD’s boundaries. Details about population and future growth for the cities of
Fairfield and Suisun City are provided in Chapter 3 and for Vallejo are provided in Chapter 4.
Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities
Senate Bill (SB) 244, which became effective in January 2012, requires LAFCo to consider the
presence of any Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities (DUCs) when preparing a MSR
that addresses agencies that provide water, wastewater or structural fire protection services. A
DUC is a geographic area characterized as having a median household income of 80 percent or
less of the statewide median household income. Chapter 3 describes several areas that could
potentially qualify as DUCs within and adjacent to the FSSD service area. Chapter 4 describes
two potential DUCs within the VSFCD boundaries, the Starr Subdivision and Homeacres
neighborhood. Overall the Vallejo community has a MHI of $58,472 which is less than the
statewide MHI but higher than the disadvantaged threshold.
Present and Planned Capacity of Public Facilities
Both FSSD and VSFCD have sufficient capacity to serve existing customers. For the most part,
FSSD’s 2008 Master Plan facilitates FFSD’s accommodation of future growth. However, in some
circumstances it is possible that planned developments exceed the population density
Executive Summary 2-5
Final Wastewater Services MSR
envisioned in the 2008 Master Plan and therefore any needed capacity improvements should be
assessed on a project-by-project basis.
VSFCD provides wastewater and flood control services to customers within their boundary.
The District’s major facilities include 415 miles of sewer pipes, 250 miles of storm drain pipes,
10,000 catch basins, 28 sewer pump stations, 5 stormwater pump stations, and the wastewater
treatment plant (VSFCD, 2016). VSFCD’s wastewater treatment plant is able to meet the
wastewater needs of the service area through its current projected buildout.
Financial Ability of the District to Provide Services
Biennial budgets and annual financial statements are prepared by both Fairfield Suisun Sewer
District and the Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District. These reports provide data which
indicate that each has the financial ability to continue providing public services. Key
performance indicators and other information are provided in Chapters 3 and 4.
Opportunities for Shared Facilities
Both Districts operate separately and do not jointly own or share capital facilities or services
with other agencies. There are no other agencies in geographic proximity that provides
wastewater and flood control services, making it difficult to share facilities. Although no
opportunities have been identified for the two Districts to share facilities with other public
agencies, each District does collaborate with other agencies and organizations in many other
ways as described in Chapters 3 and 4. Additionally, it is recommended that the Districts
continue to participate in regional planning efforts.
Accountability for Government Service Needs
In a municipal service review, LAFCO is required to make a determination about a district’s
government structure and accountability. In California, there are three types of special districts:
Dependent districts: Function as subdivisions of another multi-purpose local
government such as a county board of supervisors or a city council.
Independent districts: Have their own governing board and are usually elected directly
by voters.
Both Fairfield Suisun Sewer District and the Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District are
dependent districts as detailed in Chapters 2 and 3. Both FSSD and VSFCD representatives
appear to comply with the requirements of the Brown Act, the Political Reform Act, and similar
laws. Each District maintains a website that functions as a communication tool for meeting
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agendas, minutes, and adopted resolutions, and provides information about the District’s
services and programs.
Any Other Matter Relative to Service Delivery as Required by
Commission Policy
Cortese-Knox Hertzberg allows LAFCOs to establish policies to implement the law and process
applications. Solano LAFCO has implemented eleven standards, six mandatory standards
which mirror the requirements of CKH, and five discretionary standards. Application of
discretionary standards lies with the Commission. There are no other aspects of wastewater and
storm drainage service required to be addressed in this report by LAFCO policies that would
affect delivery of services.
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CHAPTER 3: FAIRFIELD-SUISUN SEWER
DISTRICT
3.1 DISTRICT PROFILE INCLUDING BOUNDARY MAP
Services And Location
Type and Extent of Services
The Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District (FSSD) provides wastewater, water recycling, and storm
water management services to citizens, business, and government facilities located within the
Cities of Fairfield and Suisun. The FSSD currently serves an area of approximately 44 square
miles and approximately 140,400 residents. The geography of the service area includes the
City of Fairfield, Suisun City, Travis Air Force Base, the unincorporated area of Cordelia, and
parts of Suisun Valley. Travis Air Force Base is the region’s largest employer with over 14,000
military personnel and civilian employees. Infrastructure, maintenance, and personnel needs
necessary to fulfill these services are reviewed and updated periodically in publicly available
master plans and capital improvement plans.
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Location and Size
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District is located in Solano County and the District’s boundaries
encompass two cities: the City of Fairfield and the City of Suisun City. Fairfield serves as the
County seat and is located halfway between the cities of San Francisco and Sacramento along
the Interstate-80 corridor. Notable employers include Travis Air Force Base and Jelly Belly.
Suisun City is located southeast of Fairfield and it straddles Highway 12. The City of Suisun
City is known for its charming marina and historic architecture. Suisun Marsh, located south of
Suisun City, is an important part of the San Francisco Bay along with its inland Delta complex,
the largest remaining estuary on the west coast of North America.
The City of Fairfield is approximately 40.1 square miles (26,167 acres) in size, which includes the
Travis Air Force Base (10 sq. mi.). Suisun City is approximately 4.1 square miles (2,624 acres), in
size. Summing the geographic extent of both cities yields the size of FSSD at approximately 44.7
square miles (29,242 acres).
Table 3.1: FSSD Geographic Summary
Jurisdictional Boundary
City of Fairfield 40.6 square miles (26,610 acres),
Suisun City 4.1 square miles (2,624 acres)
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District 44.7 square miles (29,234 acres)
Sphere of Influence
None 0
Data Source: Solano County GIS NAD_1983_StatePlane_California_II_FIPS_0402_Feet and Solano
LAFCO
A map of the District’s boundary is provided as Figure 3.1, below.
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-2
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Department of Information Technology, GIS Services 5
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District (FSSD) Boundaries D S e o p l a a rtm n e o n t C of o In u fo n rm t a y ti o G n T I e S ch n S o e lo r g v y ices D Th is i c s l m ai a m p e r w : as made using Solano County GIS files with varying degrees of
675 Texas Street, Suite 3700 scale, accuracy, precision, currentness, and alignment and therefore cannot
Fairfield, CA 94533 be used for situations requiring survey grade measurement or legal
Solano County P E h m o a n i e l: : G 70 IS 7 S -7 ta 8 f 4 f - @ 63 S 4 o 0 lanoCounty.com b lo o s u s n d t a h r a y t m d a e y te r r m e i s n u a lt t io f n ro . m S o th la e n o u se C o o u f nt t y h is di m sc a l p a . i m U s se l r i ab a i c l k it n y o w f l o e r d ge a s n y
Date: 02/10/2017 PRJ_1459 data limitations and accepts responsibility for map based judgments.
Document Path: Z:\P1401-1500\PRJ_1459_LafcoSewerDist2016\MXD\LafcoFFSSSDFeb2017.mxd
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Formation And Boundary
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District was formed via the Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District Act Chapter
303, Statues of 1951 as amended in 1997 and 2001, and as approved by the California
Legislature. The District was formed on May 5, 1951. FSSD is classified as a dependent special
district formed by statute which performs wastewater collection and treatment activities and
water recycling services for all properties within the boundaries of Fairfield, Suisun City, and
Travis Air Force Base. The District also operates a drainage maintenance operation that
performs specified storm water management services in conjunction with the cities it serves.
Upon annexation of new territory to the cities, the property automatically annexes into the
District boundaries. (Article 1, Section 1). The District’s boundaries cannot otherwise expand
without an action of the State Legislature. However, the District boundaries and its service area
are not equivalent. FSSD’s enabling legislation (Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District Act -Chapter
303 of the Statutes of 1951) as amended by AB 776 (Thomson, 2001) defines its boundaries and
its service area. Please see “Extra-Territorial Services” on page 3-5.
Boundary History
Consistent with the Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District Act, the District consists “of the territory in
Solano County now contained within the Cities of Fairfield and Suisun City. Any territory
hereafter annexed to either city shall be a part of the district upon annexation.” Therefore,
FSSD’s boundaries encompass the City of Fairfield (including Travis Air Force Base) and Suisun
City. The boundary history of the City of Fairfield is described in the “City of Fairfield 2012
Municipal Service Review Update” available on LAFCO’s website. During years 1980 to 2007
there were 50 annexations to the City of Fairfield totaling approximately 6,644 acres.
Additionally, in 2012 LAFCO approved the Canon Station annexation to the City, covering
1,244 acres.
The boundary history for Suisun City is described in the “City of Suisun City 2016 Municipal
Service Review Update” available on LAFCO’s website. Suisun City encompasses
approximately 2,624 acres. Since 1986 there have been eight annexations and two detachments
from the City. The total area annexed since 1986 is 665.27 acres in size.
Sphere of Influence
The Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District1 does not yet have a sphere of influence. LAFCO has not
established a SOI for this District. The 1951 enabling legislation did not address the District’s
1 The District’s enabling legislation does not address a sphere of influence for the District.
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SOI, as it was enacted prior to LAFCo Law. However, Article 1, Section 1 requires that property
annexed to the District be within the City of Fairfield or the City of Suisun City. The 2001
amendment (AB 776) allows the District to contract for disposal of sewage emanating from
buildings outside the District if certain determinations are made (Section 48c).
City SOI’s
The sphere of influence for the cities of Fairfield and Suisun City provides some indication
about where public services will be needed in the future. The District’s sphere is functionally
indicated by the cities’ spheres of influence. Therefore, discussion of the City’s SOI is included
herein for analytical purposes. In Fairfield approximately 2,400 acres of land have been
annexed to the City from 1987 to 2007 while the last revision to the City’s SOI occurred in 2004
(Fairfield MSR, 2012).
LAFCO has made three amendments to Suisun City's Sphere of
FSSD’S PURPOSE Influence since 1976 as described in LAFCO’s “City of Suisun
City 2016 Municipal Service Review Update” available on
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District LAFCO’s website. Also, the Peterson Road SOI amendment for
Suisun City was submitted by the landowner in August 2014,
protects public health and the
but it was later withdrawn.
environment for the
It is anticipated that the SOI area for each city will be annexed
into the city within the long-term. The cities have preliminary
communities we serve in an
land-use plans for the SOI area; although final land-use
efficient, responsible and authority remains with Solano County until the lands are
annexed to the cities. In the meantime, Fairfield’s preliminary
sustainable manner.
land use plan for the SOI calls for mixed use, very low density
residential, and park and recreation. Suisun City’s SOI is located
east and west of Suisun City and each SOI area has
development constraints. Suisun City’s General Plan designates
these areas as Ag-Open Space Reserve.
Extra-territorial Services
Although FSSD’s enabling legislation (Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District Act -Chapter 303 of the
Statutes of 1951) did not originally allow FSSD to provide service outside its formal boundary, a
2001 amendment by AB 776 (Thomson) (Appendix A-6) allows the following:
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• (b) The district may accept and contract for the disposal of sewage emanating from
buildings outside the district if those buildings are connected to the district's sewage
treatment system on March 1, 2002.
• (c) Pursuant to Section 56133 of the Government Code, the district may contract with
Solano County or another public entity for the disposal of sewage emanating from
buildings outside the district if the board of the district determines that the contract
furthers the protection of public health and safety and is in the best interests of the
district.
In November 2004, LAFCO approved an out-of-boundary service agreement allowing FSSD to
provide sewer service to two areas located outside the District’s jurisdictional boundary. The
two areas are commonly referred to as “Old Cordelia” and “Suisun Valley Road / Rockville
Road Intersection“ as shown in Figures 3.2 and 3.3.
FSSD also provides service to customers outside of their jurisdictional boundaries by
interagency agreements including, Solano Community College, Truck Scale for the California
Highway Patrol, specified parcels in Solano County, and other misc. public buildings (Baatrup,
et. al., RFI meeting, 2016). Special districts are required to request and receive written approval
from LAFCO before providing new or extended services by contract or agreement outside their
jurisdictions but within their spheres, consistent with Government Code Section 56133 and
LAFCO policies. Solano LAFCO has several policies related to the provision of service outside
of a District’s boundaries. Additionally, Solano LAFCO defines an “Existing Extended Service
Area of Solano County” as a fixed geographic area to which an agency has extended service,
prior to January 1, 2002, as detailed on a LAFCO map. Parcels which are adjacent to existing
distribution and/or collection lines, but have yet to connect to that service are included in the
Existing Extended Service Area and may make connection per existing legal parcel as of
January 5, 2004.
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-6
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Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District
Collection Line
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District
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Parcels Eligible For Service
City Limit
±
Solano County Parcels
Solano Local Agency
Formation Commission
744 Empire St., Suite 216
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Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District
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March 6, 2009
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Areas of Interest and/or Future Study Areas for Potential Annexation
Two areas of interest have been identified:
• “Woodcreek 66”, and
• “Middle Green Valley Specific Plan Area”.
Each of these areas is located outside the District boundary. If the District were to consider the
provision of service to these areas, LAFCO regulations and policies would need to be reviewed to
ensure compliance and the Out-of-Boundary Service Agreement between the District and the
County would need to be amended.
Solano County published the Final Environmental Impact Report2 in July 2015 for the Woodcreek
66 project. In February 2016, the County approved the Woodcreek 66 project, situated on a 33-acre
site and allowing 60 single family homes
and a commercial vineyard to be built. The
project is located in unincorporated Solano
County, northeast of the City of Fairfield in
the Rockville area and approximately 1 mile
north of Solano Community College. The
triangular-shaped project site is bordered by
Oakwood Drive to the west, Suisun Valley
Road to the east, and Rockville Road to the
north. The CEQA analysis anticipated the
District providing service to the area and
recognized that wastewater infrastructure
would need to be constructed in order to
service the area (Solano County, 2014).
Solano County’s Draft Middle Green Valley Specific Plan covers an area of 1,905-acres located along Green
Valley Road, in Green Valley. Specifically, the Specific Plan area is located north of Interstate 80, Jameson
Canyon; south of the Green Valley Country Club; and west of the Rockville Hills. The Draft Specific Plan
area consists of a valley floor containing Green Valley Creek and Hennessey Creek. The valley is surrounded
by oak woodlands and some steep slopes. Existing land use within the Plan Area includes grazing cultivated
agriculture including vineyards, several rural buildings and infrastructure elements. The Draft Specific Plan
suggests a land use and circulation layout that would facilitate development of 400 new residences,
agricultural tourism, local neighborhood retail and community facility uses (Solano County, 2016).
Additionally, over 1,400 acres of agriculture and open space would be protected through the use of
conservation tools such as development clustering, a TDR program, and conservation easements. The Draft
2 The EIR for the Wood Creek 66 project is available on Solano County’s website at:
http://www.co.solano.ca.us/depts/rm/documents/eir/woodcreek_66.asp.
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EIR for this project was
published in June 2016. In
October 2016, Solano
County published the
Responses to Comments on
and Revisions to the Second
Revised Recirculated Draft
Environmental Impact
Report. The Specific Plan
outlines two options for the
provision of wastewater
services to the Area. The
Plan’s Option #A suggests
that FSSD could potentially
provide wastewater service
to the area (Solano County
2010). Currently, the
specific plan area is not
included within the FSSD
boundary.
There are options the project proponents, FSSD, and LAFCO could consider to secure FSSD sewer
service to these two areas of interest:
1. SOI option: Currently, LAFCO has not adopted a sphere of influence for FSSD. However,
in the future, should LAFCO wish to establish a SOI for the District, then the Woodcreek 66
or Middle Green Valley Specific Plan Area projects could potentially be studied for
inclusion within that SOI. Preliminary analysis indicates the two areas of interest could
only be included in the District SOI if within one of the City’s SOI. However, LAFCO’s
consideration of this issue would likely need to include additional legal analysis on this
topic.
2. Annexation option: The Woodcreek 66 or Middle Green Valley Specific Plan Area projects
could potentially be studied for inclusion within the City of Fairfield boundaries. They
would therefore be included in the FSSD boundaries consistent with the District’s enabling
legislation.
3. Study whether it would be possible to amend the Out-of-Boundary Service Agreement
between the District and Solano County. Analysis of consistency with LAFCO policies and
regulations would also be required.
Each of these options would require LAFCO approval.
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3.2 GROWTH AND POPULATION
Existing Population
This section provides information on the existing population and future growth projections for the
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District. Since census data is readily available for the City of Fairfield and
the City of Suisun City, these cities are utilized as a proxy for FSSD in this section. Today, FSSD’s
boundaries contain a population estimated to be 140,400 persons.
City of Fairfield
As of January 1, 2016, the population in the City of Fairfield was estimated by the California
Department of Finance at 112,637 persons. Between census years 2000 to 2010, the City of
Fairfield’s population grew by 9,143 people, which equates to a 0.95 annual growth rate (US
Census, 2010). This represents an increase to the annual growth rate by 46 percent between the
2010 U.S. Census and the estimated 2015 population. The average population concentration is
roughly 2,700 persons per square mile. The 40.886 square mile area, which includes the Travis
Airforce Base, is located in Census Tract 23182 in Solano County (US Census, Geographic
Boundary).
Table 3.2: Historic and Existing Population, City of Fairfield
Total population Land area (sq. miles) Population per sq.
mile
2010 105,321 37.39 2,817
2015 112,637 40.886 2,755
Data Source: U.S. Census, Fairfield, 2010; California Department of Finance, 2016; US Census
Geographic Boundary Change, Fairfield, 2015
Though the population and land area for the City of Fairfield has slightly increased from 2010 to
2015, the population per square mile has decreased. This suggests that the City has enough land to
accommodate the population growth in 2015 over what was available in 2010.
Suisun City
As of January 1, 2016, the population in Suisun City is estimated by the California Department of
Finance at 29,091 persons. Between census years 2000 to 2010, the Suisun City population grew by
1,993 people, which equates to a 0.76 annual growth rate (US Census, 2010). The average
population concentration is about 7,000 persons per square mile. The 4.105 sq. mile area as of 2015,
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which includes expansion into areas south of the City boundary as of 2000, is located in Census
Tract 75630 in Solano County (US Census, Geographic Boundary).
Table 3.3: Historic and Existing Population, Suisun City
Total population Land area (sq. miles) Population per sq.
mile
2010 28,111 4.011 7,008
2015 29,091 4.105 7,087
U.S. Census, Suisun, 2010; California Department of Finance, 2016; US Census Geographic Boundary
Change, Suisun, 2015
The slight increase in population and land area from 2010 to 2015 has slightly increased the
population per square mile within Suisun City. The increase in land area shown in Table 3.3 is less
than 1/10 of a square mile.
Projected Growth and Development
City of Fairfield
To some extent, population growth in the City is dependent upon land use, general plan
designations, and zoning on properties. The General Plan for the City of Fairfield was adopted in
June of 1992. In 2002, the City adopted a substantial revision to the General Plan for build out to
the year 2020. A new Housing Element was adopted in January 2007, with a draft update currently
in review. The City’s General Plan is based upon the concept of a “Livable City,” envisioning
development in a manner that promotes compact and efficient land use patterns, with less
emphasis on development that requires the use of the automobile. Thus, the City’s Land Use
Element incorporates five strategies, which include:
• Strong commitment toward protection of agricultural areas outside of the urban limit line
and separation from other urban areas in the County
• Future development to occur within existing City Limits with limited development
proposed outside of the City Limits to achieve certain related objectives that would be
difficult to achieve within the existing City Limits
• Incentives such as modifications to development regulations and city fees to concentrate
development of infill areas within existing City boundaries
• Greater emphasis on pedestrian-oriented development (POD) and transit-oriented
development (TOD)
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• Provide high quality services and infrastructure in accordance with adopted standards.
(City of Fairfield General Plan, Land Use Element, 2004).
The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) prepares population projections at the County
and jurisdictional level. According to ABAG’s projections, overall Solano County population will
increase by 23.8 percent, with Fairfield having the greatest projected growth in the County at 39.1
percent from 2015 to 2040 as shown in Table 3.4, below. The growth rate for Fairfield is 39.1
percent calculated as the total change from year 2010 to 2040 and this yields an average annual
growth rate of about 1.3 percent based on population change from 2015 to 2040.
Table 3.4: Projected Population Growth in Cities (2010–2040)
*Percent
2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
Increase
Benicia 26,997 27,600 28,300 29,000 29,700 30,500 31,400 16.3%
Dixon 18,351 18,700 19,000 19,400 19,800 20,200 20,700 12.8%
Fairfield 105,321 111,500 117,900 124,400 131,400 138,800 146,500 39.1%
Rio Vista 7,360 7,500 7,900 8,300 8,400 8,600 8,800 19.6%
Suisun City 28,111 28,900 29,800 30,700 31,600 32,600 33,700 19.9%
Vacaville 92,428 95,300 98,200 101,700 105,500 109,700 114,000 23.3%
Vallejo 115,942 118,100 121,000 124,200 126,200 128,600 131,800 13.7%
Unincorporat 18,834 21.500 22,600 23,700 24,700 31.1%
19,700 20,600
ed
Solano 413,344 459,200 475,200 492,700 511,600 23.8%
427,300 442,700
County
*Percentage increase from (2010 to 2040).
Data Source: ABAG 2013, Population Projections
Population growth in the unincorporated areas of the County is at 31.1 percent, and the City of
Vacaville population growth is 23.3 percent.
Suisun City
As with the City of Fairfield, population growth in Suisun City is dependent upon land use,
general plan designations, and zoning laws. The 2035 General Plan for the City was adopted in
May of 2015. The City adopted a new Housing Element in January of 2015. The 2035 General Plan
is based upon ten strategic goals, some of which include:
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• Encourage the development of uses and protection of resources that attract visitors,
enhancing the community as a tourist destination
• Develop the downtown as a vibrant, pedestrian-scaled commercial and entertainment
center that reflects our community’s unique waterfront character
• Provide quality community services and sound infrastructure
• Ensure that neighborhoods maintain their character and vitality
• Practice economically, fiscally, and environmentally responsible municipal decision-
making to avoid shifting today’s costs to future generations
(Source: Suisun City 2035 General Plan)
Although ABAG has projected the population for the City of Suisun City, projecting future
population growth for a small city is problematic due to factors associated with a variable
annexation rate. The projected growth rate as a percentage of the total from year 2010 to 2040 is
19.9 percent and this yields an average annual growth rate for Suisun City of 0.76 percent as
shown in Table 3.4, above.
Since Suisun City is mostly built-out, its future growth rate is projected to be relatively low at rates
consistent with the ABAG projection shown in Table 3.4. The City’s 2035 General Plan was created
to accommodate a total population of about 32,400 with 11,300 dwelling units and 5.8 million sq.
feet of non-residential development at build out. The City’s 2035 General Plan indicates that, by
2035 the City should have adequate housing and non-residential development potential to meet
population projections.
FSSD
Combining the projected population for the City of Fairfield with that in Suisun City yields the
projected growth rate in the study area of the Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District as shown in Table 3.5,
below.
Table 3.5: FSSD Projected Population Growth (2010–2040)
Year 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
FSSD 133,432 140,400 147,700 155,100 163,000 171,400 180,200
Between the years 2010 to 2040, an additional 46,768 persons will reside within FSSD’s boundaries.
This represents an overall 35 percent increase in projected future population at an average annual
(compound) growth rate of 1 percent.
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-14
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Existing and planned land use
The land-uses that are present today are the result of decades of decisions by the cities and
activities by private builders. Since FSSD does not have the legal authority to make land use
decisions, this section summarizes existing land-use within Fairfield and Suisun City.
City of Fairfield
Three distinct communities characterize the City of Fairfield: Cordelia, Central Fairfield, and
Travis Air Force Base/Northeast area. Land-use in Fairfield includes residential, highway-serving
commercial areas, and regional commercial uses. The overall land use pattern is suburban and
auto-oriented. The federally owned military base includes the Travis Air Force Base and the
Travis Reserve areas. Land-uses on the Air Force Base include the Jimmy Doolittle Air & Space
Museum, the David Grant USAF Medical Center, three runways (3L/21R, 3R/21L, 32/212), the C-17
Assault Landing Zone, offices, hangars, and housing (SCALUC, 2002). The former Strategic Air
Command Alert Facility is now used by the U.S. Navy to place aircraft including Navy E-6B
Mercury TACAMO aircraft. The western portion of Fairfield, near Cordelia, is comprised
primarily of residential and business park land uses.
Suisun City
As of January 2016, the City of Suisun City was approximately 4.1 square miles (2,632 acres)
including 1,910 acres of land, 675 acres of streets/highways, and 47 acres of water. Approximately
665.27 acres of land have been annexed to the City from 1986 to 2006 for purposes of the
development of medium residential, mixed-use, commercial services, and light manufacturing
uses (Suisun City MSR, 2016). The City’s Zoning Map shows a vast majority of the City’s acreage
has been developed for low density residential. This is due to the rapid growth during the 1960s
and 70s that occurred as the San Francisco Bay Area’s suburban ring expanded into Solano
County. The location of Suisun City, adjacent to the largest contiguous brackish water marsh
remaining on the west coast of North America, has created a community rich in water-oriented
natural and recreational resources. In addition, the City has placed great value in existing historic
architecture and heritage resources. The City’s proximity to Fairfield has provided residents with
access to employment and business opportunities of the Fairfield labor and consumer markets,
thus few employed residents of Suisun City work in the City (City of Suisun City 2035 General
Plan).
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Solano County
Solano County adopted the Suisun Valley Strategic Plan3 in February, 2010 and codified it via
Ordinance Number 2011-1717. The Strategic Plan describes a strategy for the long-term
agricultural viability of the Valley. The Plan recommends either septic or packaged wastewater
systems within the Specific Plan Area. These can be developed at any time by the owner or
occupant and therefore, no action by FSSD was suggested.
Future Development
Potential
5
FSSD does not have the legal
authority to make land use
decisions. Rather, FSSD aims to
provide service to the result of
land use and planning decisions
that are made by the City of
Fairfield and Suisun City.
As part of the Plan Bay Area 2040,
ABAG and the Metropolitan
Transportation Commission
(MTC) have identified priority
development areas as shown in
Figure 3.5, below. A priority
development area serves as the
foundation for sustainable
regional growth places and is
ready for investment, new homes,
and job growth.
3 The Suisun Valley Strategic Plan is available on Solano County‘s website at:
http://www.co.solano.ca.us/depts/rm/planning/suisun_valley_strategic_plan.asp
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Figure 3.5: ABAG Priority Areas 1
Each of the two cities does have future development potential as described in their respective
general plans and zoning ordinances and as listed in Table 3.6 below.
Table 3.6: Potential Future Development Areas in Acres
Project Developable Acres
Heart of Fairfield Specific Plan 513 acres
Fairfield Train Station Specific Plan 2,972 acres
Canon Station Area in Fairfield 1,244 acres
ABAG PDA areas for Fairfield 420 acres
Suisun City Opportunity Areas
Waterfront District Specific Plan in Suisun City 30 acres
ABAG PDA for the City of Suisun City - Downtown & Waterfront 291 acres
PDA
Total 5,470+ acres
Fairfield General Plan, 2002; ABAG, Plan Bay Area, Priority Development Area Showcase
The potential for new growth and development on Travis Air Force Base has not been assessed
recently. This is a federal military facility and its redevelopment is based on the need of the Air
Force to operate securely and it currently employs approximately 14,000 military and civilian
personnel. Although the City has no jurisdiction over TAFB, new development there could
potentially increase the demand for services from FSSD.
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Findings & Determinations: Growth and Population
1. The Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District (FSSD) provides wastewater, water recycling, and
storm water management services to approximately 140,400 residents, plus business and
government facilities in central Solano County.
2. FSSD’s enabling legislation defines its service area. The District’s boundaries can expand
through city annexation and District boundaries cannot otherwise expand without an
action of the State Legislature. FSSD’s 44 square mile service area includes the City of
Fairfield, Suisun City, Travis Air Force Base, the unincorporated area of Cordelia, and parts
of Suisun Valley.
3. Between the years 2010 to 2040, an additional 46,768 persons are expected to reside within
FSSD’s boundaries. This represents an overall 35 percent increase in projected future
population at an average annual (compound) growth rate of 1 percent.
4. Though the population and land area for the City of Fairfield has slightly increased from
2010 to 2015, the population per square mile has decreased. This suggests that the City has
enough land to accommodate the population growth in 2015 over what was available in
2010.
3.3 DISADVANTAGED UNINCORPORATED COMMUNITIES
Senate Bill (SB) 244 (Wolk), which became effective in January 2012, requires LAFCO to consider
the presence of any Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities (DUCs) when preparing a MSR
that addresses agencies that provide water, wastewater or structural fire protection services.
The Wolk Bill created several definitions related to DUCs, in both LAFCO and planning law,
including4:
1. “Community” is an inhabited area within a city or county that is comprised of no less than
10 dwellings adjacent to or in close proximity to one another;
2. “Unincorporated fringe community” is any inhabited and unincorporated territory that is
within a city’s SOI;
3. “Unincorporated island community” is any inhabited and unincorporated territory that is
surrounded or substantially surrounded by one or more cities or by one or more cities and
a county boundary or the Pacific Ocean;
4. “Unincorporated legacy community” as a geographically isolated community that is
inhabited and has existed for at least 50 years; and
4 State of California, Senate Bill 244 (Wolk Bill) (October 7, 2011).
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-18
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5. “Disadvantaged unincorporated community” is inhabited territory of 12 or more registered
voters that constitutes all or a portion of a community with an annual MHI that is less than
80 percent of the statewide annual MHI.
This state legislation is intended to ensure that the needs of these unincorporated communities are
met when considering service extensions and/or annexations, in particular, water, wastewater,
drainage, and structural fire protection services. Additionally, Solano LAFCO’s policy requires
written determinations with respect to the location and characteristics of any DUCs within or
contiguous to the Sphere of Influence5. In 2014, the statewide annual median household income
(MHI) was $61,933. This yields a DUC threshold MHI of less than $49,546 (80 percent of the
statewide MHI). Relevant data were reviewed for the Fairfield Suisun area. To understand the
geographic distribution of disadvantaged communities within FSSD’s boundaries, five sources of
data were considered:
LAFCO data
California Department of Water Resources, on-line mapping tool
U.S. Census
Solano County Housing Assessment and other County data
ABAG and MTC Equity Analysis
Disadvantaged Areas within Cities
LAFCO is required to consider the provision of public services to disadvantaged unincorporated
communities (DUCs). However, incorporated areas (within the city limits) can sometimes meet
the disadvantaged income threshold. Although LAFCO is not required to study the status of
disadvantaged neighborhoods that are located within incorporated cities that provide water,
wastewater, drainage and structural fire protection services. However, SB 244 required cities to
update their land use and housing elements to include an analysis of the water, wastewater, storm
water, and structural fire protection services in the area along with financing options to help
encourage investment in disadvantaged areas, should it be needed.
Unincorporated Islands
Unincorporated Islands are areas that are completely surrounded or substantially surrounded by a
City and yet remain under the jurisdiction of Solano County. Partially surrounded islands are
those that are surrounded on two or more sides by the City. Suisun does contain one
unincorporated island (Tolenas), within its larger, outer boundary. The FSSD is legislatively
5 FSSD does not have a sphere of influence.
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-19
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limited to which areas they can serve and therefore may not be able to provide services to the
unincorporated islands.
Threshold
According to the U.S. Census, the median household income (MHI) for the State was $61,933 in
2014 (US Census, ACS, 2010-2014). This yields a DUC threshold MHI of less than $49,546 (80
percent of the statewide MHI) (US Census, 2014; Disadvantaged Communities Mapping Tool). The
median household income and relevant data were reviewed for the City of Fairfield area. As of
2014 the median household income (MHI) in the City of Fairfield was estimated to be $81,011 (U.S.
Census, 2010-2014). This is significantly higher than the DUC threshold MHI.
The median household income and relevant data were also reviewed for the City of Suisun City.
As of 2014 the median household income (MHI) in the City of Suisun city was estimated to be
$71,306 (U.S. Census, 2010-2014). This is significantly higher than the DUC threshold MHI.
Because this data reflects values for whole cities, it is possible that there may be unincorporated
islands with an MHI that does meet the financial threshold. Therefore additional data sources
were explored as described in the following paragraphs.
LAFCO Data
LAFCO’s August 8, 2016 staff report identified eight islands in the Fairfield Suisun area as shown
in Figure 3.6, below. The eight island areas total approximately 1,411 acres. Five of the island
areas are surrounded and three are substantially surrounded. With the exception of Area 2 and
Area 7 most areas are less than 150 acres. Area 5 is developed. The two thin areas at the bottom of
Area 5 are apparent mapping errors which were omitted when the area was annexed.
Tolenas: Tolenas is Area #2 identified in Figure 3.6, below. It is an unincorporated community
located between the City of Fairfield and Suisun City. It is considered an “island” because it is
bounded at on the south and west by Suisun City and on the east by Travis Air Force Base (City of
Fairfield) and north by the City of Fairfield. Tolenas is 510.52 acres in size and has a population of
488 people living in 163 housing units-(Solano County, 2015 and LAFCO, 2016).
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Figure 3.6: Unincorporated Island Territories from LAFCO
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Table 3.7: Unincorporated Islands in the Fairfield Suisun Area
City Name of APN Current Use –
Map Area Acre Unincorporated According to Assessor Fire Sewer Water
Surrounded
1 7.1 FF Divincenzo/Miller 0174-040-040 and 050 Vacant/Light Industrial Vacaville FPD none none
Over 200 parcels. Data
available from GIS
1
2 510.52 SU Tolenas upon request Rural Residential Suisun FPD none SID
Cross/Fairfield Vicinity Vacant
Streams and 0037-060-480 and 490 Residential/Manufacturi
3 7.65 FF Covey/Woodruff 0037-160-060 and 040 ng Suisun FPD none SID
0152-031-110
4 2.76 FF 0152-032-010 Gov’t and Miscellaneous Suisun FPD none none
0028-191-010, 020, 040
and 0028-182-020 and Single Family
5 1.43 FF Woolner/Hamilton 150 Residential Suisun FPD none SCWA*
Not
shown on One 3-bedroom house
Figure 3.6 0.24 FF Lopes L Road Island 0180-110-120 built in 1955 Suisun FPD ? SCWA*
Partially Surrounded (75%)
003-2010-390
0032-010-250
003-2020-140
6 139.92 FF Data not available 0032-020-040 Agriculture Suisun FPD none none
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0174110030
0174110050
0174110060
0174110070
0174110110
0174110120
0174120080
0174160250 Range/Watershed/ Misc.
7 668.74 FF Data not available 0174160260 Industrial Suisun FPD none none
8 72.8 FF Old Cordelia 0180090040 Range Cordelia FPD none none
Note: *Area 5 is within the TRA of the Solano County Water Agency. It is not clear whether physical infrastructure has been installed to serve this area.
Data Source: Solano LAFCO, August 8, 2016 Staff Report and LAFCO’s 2012 MSR for the City of Fairfield
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-23
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Average lot size in this neighborhood is approximately 15 acres. No indication has been made
that the residents wish to annex to a city. The Solano County’s Housing Needs Assessment
(2015) identified the Tolenas area as being in need of programs to improve housing conditions.
The data for census tracts 2526.10, 2526.11 and 2527.07, presented in Table 3.7, below indicate
that the MHI for the community of Tolenas is higher than the DUC income threshold. The
community does receive water from the Solano Irrigation District and fire protection from the
Suisun Fire Protection District. The residents of Tolenas rely upon septic systems and therefore
do not receive service from FSSD.
Woolner/Hamilton: The Woolner/Hamilton is Area #5 as described in Tables 3.7 and 3.8. This
area has a MHI of $24,858 and it qualifies as a DUC. The five properties in the Hamilton area
are unincorporated and do not receive sewer service from FSSD. Septic tanks are used to store
wastewater for future pumping. The small6 parcels sizes may be less than optimal to support
the leach fields as listed in Table 3.8. However, since they are existing lots there is no minimum
parcel size required by County Environmental Health.
Table 3.8: Parcel Size in
Woolner Hamilton Area
APN Acres
0028191040 0.40
0028191020 0.19
0028182020 0.18
0028191010 0.19
0028182150 0.44
In the recent past, LAFCO approved an annexation on Hamilton Road. However, the
annexation was subsequently not completed by the landowner and therefore did not become
effective. In the event of a future septic failure, the property owners might wish to request
annexation into the City. If annexation to the City were to occur at some future date, then this
area would be added to the FSSD boundary. This neighborhood does not meet the
disadvantaged status criteria because there are not 12 or more registered voters.
6 Installation and/or use of septic tanks on residential parcels is regulated by Codes from Solano County
and overseen by the Solano County Environmental Health Department. There is no minimum parcel size
for use of septic tanks on existing legal lots. However, on existing lots, the septic system must meet
setback requirements for streams, creeks, and property wells. On new lots (those newly created by
parcel maps or subdivisions) the minimum parcel size is 5 acres for those lots with both a well and a septic
system. For those lots using a public water supply and a private septic system, the minimum parcel size is
2.5 acre (personal conversation, Anthony Endo, Solano Co. Env Health on 28Nov2016).
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Sunset Area: The Sunset area has 2 parcels that are unincorporated (FSSD, 2016c). This
neighborhood does not meet the disadvantaged status criteria because there are not 12 or more
registered voters.
Four of the unincorporated islands (#1, 3, 5, and not shown Lopes-L Road) do not meet the
disadvantaged status criteria because there are not 12 or more registered voters residing in each
island. Detailed financial data about average household income is not available at the highly
detailed resolution needed for these small areas.
Adjacent to Fairfield
The Solano County’s Housing Needs Assessment (2015) identified four unincorporated areas
located outside of, but near the City of Fairfield that are in need of programs to improve
housing conditions. Although each of four areas are not classified as DUC’s due to their higher
MHI, they were carefully evaluated as potential DUCs as part of this MSR. Details are
described in the following paragraphs.
Old Cordelia: Old Cordelia is an unincorporated community located west of Fairfield, east of
I-680 and south of I- 80. It is shown on Figure 3.6 as Area #8. The townsite of Old Cordelia was
established in the late 1800s. The Old Cordelia townsite includes 80 acres located within the
City of Fairfield’s urban growth line. Old Cordelia has a population of 220 residents in 64
housing units (2000 U.S. Census). Approximately 28 percent of Old Cordelia residents are
under 18 years of age. Additionally 12 percent of households are headed by a female in Old
Cordelia compared to 5 percent in the greater Unincorporated Area (Solano County, 2015).
Information provided in Solano County’s Housing Needs Assessment indicated this
neighborhood could potentially meet disadvantaged criteria. See also Census Tract 2522.02.
The Cordelia Fire Protection District provides fire protection services to this community.
Domestic water is provided by the Vallejo Lakes System, a public7 water system with its own
treatment plant and distribution system. This community has a MHI of $$92,450 which is higher
than the DUC threshold criteria.
Green Valley: Green Valley is an unincorporated community located northwest of Fairfield
along Green Valley and Rockville roads. It is approximately 850 acres in size. Green Valley
contains approximately 1,859 people residing in 759 housing units. About 21 percent of the
7 The Vallejo Lakes System (Lakes System) is a separate public water system with its own treatment plant and
distribution system that delivers drinking water to customers residing in the Green Valley, Old Cordelia, Jameson
Canyon, Suisun Valley, Willotta Oaks and Gordon Valley areas.
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-25
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persons are under 18 years of age and seven percent of households are headed by a female8
(Solano County, 2015). Information provided in Solano County’s Housing Needs Assessment
indicated this neighborhood could potentially meet disadvantaged criteria; however the US
Census reports the MHI ($70,000) is above the DUC financial criteria. See also Census Tract
2522.01.
Rockville: Rockville is an unincorporated community located directly southeast of Green
Valley and north of the Fairfield City limits. Specifically it is north of Interstate 80 along Suisun
Valley and Rockville Road. Rockville includes a 375 acres area. The community of Rockville is
also located outside the urban limit line. The population of Rockville is 243 people residing in
110 housing units. 25 percent of Rockville’s total population is aged 65 years and older. 74
percent of Rockville households own their own home (Solano County, 2015). Information
provided in Solano County’s Housing Needs Assessment indicates this neighborhood could
potentially meet disadvantaged criteria. However Census Tracts 2522.01 and 2523.05 are
reported to have a MHI of $70,000 and $76,192 respectively, which is above the DUC financial
criteria. In July 2015, Solano County released a Final Environmental Impact Report for the
Woodcreek 66 project9. The Woodcreek project was approved by the Board of Supervisors, but
it has not yet been constructed and it has been subject to litigation.
Willotta Oaks: Another unincorporated community is Willotta Oaks consisting of 70 custom
ranch homes situated on large lots along on a horseshoe-shaped road. Willotta Oaks is
surrounded by the rural farms of the Suisun Valley. The community of Willotta Oaks is also
located outside the urban limit line This neighborhood has not been identified as a
disadvantaged community.
Data from California Department of Water Resources
According the California Department of Water Resources on-line mapping tool10, much of the
Fairfield and Suisun area can be considered disadvantaged as shown in Figure 3.7, below.
8 These types of data points are commonly used by housing experts to determine the socio-economic situation of a
neighborhood.
9 Woodcreek 66 FEIR at: https://www.solanocounty.com/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=20799
10 DWR mapping tool is available at: https://gis.water.ca.gov/app/dacs/
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Figure 3.7: DWR
DACs 1
The map (right)
depicts
Disadvantaged
Communities
Block Groups.
This layer is
derived from data
of the US Census
ACS 2010-2014
showing census block groups identified as disadvantaged communities (less than 80% of the
State's median household income) or severely disadvantaged communities (less than 60% of the
State's median household income). However, U.S. Census Community Block Group data is low
resolution and does not provide information on specific neighborhoods. Therefore, more
detailed information on socio-economic conditions in relation to the City of Fairfield and the
City of Suisun City are provided herein.
Data from ABAG and MTC Equity Analysis
ABAG and MTC have prepared a Draft Equity Report as part of the Plan Bay Area 2040. The
Draft Equity Report includes a map of a “Community of Concern” in Solano County as shown
in Figure 3.8. The “community of concern” represents a diverse cross-section of populations
and communities that could be considered disadvantaged or vulnerable due to current
conditions and potential impacts of future growth. The communities of concern map shows
census tracts that have a
concentration of both minority and
low-income households at specified
thresholds of significance, or that
have a concentration of three or more
of six additional factors such as
people with disability, seniors 75
years and over, and cost-burdened
renters.
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-27
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Census Data
Data from the U.S. Census was utilized to determine whether areas met the criteria to be
classified as disadvantaged. According to the U.S. Census, the median household income
(MHI) for the State was $61,933 in 2014 (US Census, ACS, 2010-2014). This yields a DUC
threshold MHI of less than $49,546 (80 percent of the statewide MHI) (US Census, 2014;
Disadvantaged Communities Mapping Tool). A more detailed query of census data was made
based upon census tracts and census block groups within and near FSSD’s boundaries. Nine
disadvantaged areas have been identified within the City of Fairfield and the City of Suisun
City, their SOI, or adjacent areas, as listed in Table 3.9 below.
Table 3.9: Median Household Income in Unincorporated Islands
Median
Household Disadvantaged
Census Block Income in Block Margin of within Margin of
Map Area Census Tract Group Group Error Error
Surrounded
1 2523.17 2 $94,313 29049 No
2 2527.07 3 $76,100 22385 No
3 2526.11 2 $62,632 16174 No
4 2523.06 1 $116,944 26349 No
5 2524.02 5 $24,858 9864 Yes
Not
shown on
Figure 3.7 2522.02 2 $92,450 20919 No
Partially Surrounded (75%)
6 2524.02 2 $69,167 17086 No
7 2527.06 1 $90,667 7082 No
8 2522.02 2 $92,450 20919 No
Data Source: US Census, ASC 5-Year Estimates, 2014
Only one block group, associated with Area #5, meets the financial criteria to be classified as
disadvantaged and it has a MHI of $24,858. Area 5 in census tract 2524.02 is shown in the map
below. Census tracts are shown in Figures 3.9 and 3.10 (next page).
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-28
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Figure 3.9 1
Figure 3.10
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-29
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DUC Summary
Nine unincorporated islands have been identified within the FSSD boundary area. Although,
four unincorporated areas located outside of, but near the City of Fairfield, were identified by
the Solano County Housing Needs Assessment, these four areas have MHI’s that exceed the
threshold criteria and are therefore are not classified as DUCs. Only one (Area #5,
Woolner/Hamilton) meets the financial threshold to be classified as disadvantaged.
Although the Woolner/Hamilton is categorized as disadvantaged, it does receive public services
from a range of agencies. Specifically, the area receives adequate water, wastewater, and fire
protection services. No public health and safety issues have been identified. The geographic
extent that FSSD can serve is limited by legislation. Therefore, absent city annexation or other
allowed service agreement, FSSD might not be able to serve many of the nine unincorporated
islands identified, as shown in Table 3.7.
Findings & Determinations for Disadvantaged Unincorporated
Communities
5. The According to the U.S. Census, the median household income (MHI) for the State
was $61,933 in 2014 (US Census, ACS, 2010-2014). This yields a DUC threshold MHI of
less than $49,546 (80 percent of the statewide MHI). As of 2014 the median household
income (MHI) in the City of Fairfield was estimated to be $81,011. This is significantly
higher than the DUC threshold MHI. The median household income (MHI) in the City
of Suisun city was estimated to be $71,306. This is significantly higher than the DUC
threshold MHI.
6. Nine unincorporated islands have been identified within the FSSD boundary area as
listed in Table 3.7. The MHI for each unincorporated island is listed in Table 3.9 and it
shows that Area #5 known as Woolner-Hamilton has a MHI of $24,858, which meets the
financial threshold to be classified as a DUC. The Woolner Hamilton area does,
however, receive adequate water, wastewater (small septic systems), and fire protection
services, as listed in Table 3-7. No public health and safety issues have been identified.
7. The FSSD is legislatively limited to which areas they can serve and therefore may not be
able to provide services to the unincorporated islands.
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3.4: PRESENT AND PLANNED CAPACITY
OF PUBLIC FACILITIES
Service Overview
The District provides the following public services:
Wastewater collection and treatment, and disposal
water recycling, and
storm drainage
Wastewater Service
FSSD provides wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal to the 140,400 residents and
workers located within its boundary and contractual service areas. The collection system works
in conjunction with three “satellite collection systems” that consist of the City of Fairfield,
Travis Air Force Base, and the City of Suisun City. In general, local collection pipes (gravity
sewers) less than 12-inches in diameter are owned and managed by the individual satellite
collection system agencies. Sewers 12-inches in diameter and larger are owned and managed
by the District. Wastewater treatment is managed at the District owned and operated
wastewater treatment plant that serves Fairfield, Suisun City, and Travis Air Force Base.
Wastewater undergoes a multi-step treatment process at the central facility and is then
discharged into Boynton Slough, or recycled for irrigation. The District is located within the
Suisun Hydrologic Basin and surface water discharge is directed towards Suisun Marsh.
Further detail about the collection, treatment, and disposal of wastewater is provided in the
Facilities (next) section of this MSR. The District approved a Sewer System Management Plan
(SSMP) in 2013 that guides the proper management, operation, and maintenance of all parts of
the FSSD sanitary sewer system under its control. The SSMP aims to reduce and prevent
sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) and mitigate SSOs if they occur. The 2013 SSMP is available
in the District office (FSSD, 2013).
Wastewater Service Facilities
Collection System Infrastructure
FSSD’s collection system consists of 70 miles of sewer pipes sized between 12 to 48 inches in
diameter and 13 pump stations. The collection system connects the wastewater sources to the
District’s Wastewater Treatment Plant. FSSD actively manages its District-wide collection
system and its system functions in conjunction with three “satellite collection systems” that
consist of the City of Fairfield, Travis Air Force Base, and the City of Suisun City. The satellite
collection systems collect the wastewater and forward it to FSSD for treatment and disposal. In
general, pipelines (gravity sewers) less than 12-inch in size are owned and managed by the
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-31
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individual satellite collection system. The collection systems in the cities are described in
LAFCO’s Municipal Service Review for Suisun City (2016) and for the City of Fairfield (2012).
FSSD collects wastewater from 54,000 separate sewer connections that ultimately serve 140,400
residents in Fairfield and Suisun City. One FSSD connection can potentially serve many
individual customers. For example, Travis AFB is “one” connection. FSSD works closely with
its sister agencies that also provide “collection” service including the City of Fairfield and
Suisun City. Most residential customers connect to the sewer via their City sewage collection
system, rather than FSSD. The largest institutional/business users of the system include the
Travis Air Force Base and industrial scale food and beverage companies such as Anheuser-
Busch InBev, and Sunnyside Farms.
FSSD has thirteen pump stations, as listed below, that all contribute to the operation of the
collection system. The District’s pump stations, forcemains, and related equipment are
operated and maintained by the District’s Collection System Crew. The Collections Crew is
responsible for preventive, corrective, and predictive maintenance of pump stations and
associated forcemains. The Inlet Pump Station is located on the treatment plant site and is
considered part of the treatment plant; this station is maintained by the treatment plant
mechanics.
Pump Stations
The pumping capacity of each of the thirteen pump station is listed in Table 3.10, below.
Table 3.10: Pump Station Flows
Pumping
Pump Station
Location Capacity
Name
(MGD)
Central South of Illinois Street, east of Pennsylvania Avenue, Fairfield 32.9
Cordelia Cordelia Road near Pittman Road, Fairfield 11.8
CBC Cordelia Road near Beck Street, Suisun City 5.8
Crystal Crystal Street, Suisun City 0.5
Grobric Grobric Court, Fairfield 0.1
Inlet WWTP Site 18.5
Kaiser Kaiser Drive, Fairfield 0.6
Lawler Ranch 1 Anderson Drive, Suisun City 0.4
Lawler Ranch 2 Lawler Ranch Parkway, Suisun City 1.1
Lopes Road Lopes Road, Fairfield 3.0
Rancho Solano #3 Pebble Beach Circle, Fairfield 0.4
Rancho Solano #5 Pebble Beach Circle, Fairfield 0.1
Suisun South End of Civic Center Dr, Suisun City 26.4
Source: Provided by Kevin Cullen, FSSD, October 2015 to LAFCO
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A significant amount of flow that routes through Suisun Pump Station originates in Fairfield.
The Suisun Pump has a lower elevation and the flow moves downhill.
Treatment System Facilities
Wastewater is collected in the FSSD collection system and then pumped from four major pump
stations, to the Fairfield-Suisun Subregional Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), located on
150 acres at 1010 Chadbourne Road in Fairfield. The WWTP provides advanced secondary
treatment. The WWTP was originally built in 1974 and it underwent major renovations and
expansions in 1982, 1987, and 1989. Additional improvements were completed in the summer
of 2010 with an expansion project to increase the plant’s capacity from 17.5 to 23.7 mgd average
dry weather flow (ADWF) (Fairfield, 2010; LAFCO, 2016; and FSSD comments on Admin Draft
MSR Dec2016).
The plant provides advanced secondary treatment which is described in detail in the District’s
brochure provided in Appendix A-2. The treatment process begins with influent screening and
grit removal, and primary clarification as shown in Figure 3.11 (next page). The next steps in
the treatment process include optional fixed film roughing filters and intermediate clarification,
biological activated sludge, and secondary clarification. The last steps in the treatment process
include dual-media filtration and ultraviolet light (UV) disinfection. During wet weather, the
plant uses additional facilities including a 111 MG equalization storage basin with optional
comminution. FSSD’s WWTP provides advanced secondary treatment of wastewater flows up
to the 20-year design storm event (SFRWQCB, 2015).
Permitting
The State Water Resources Control Board has jurisdiction throughout California. Created by the
State Legislature in 1967, the Board protects water quality by setting statewide policy,
coordinating and supporting the Regional Water Board efforts, and reviewing petitions that
contest Regional Board actions. There are nine regional water quality control boards that
exercise rulemaking and regulatory activities by basins. The San Francisco Bay Regional Water
Quality Control Board (SFRWQCB) regulates water quality, including issuance of discharge
permits for the Fairfield Suisun Sewer District.
Municipal wastewater treatment plants are classified as major point-source discharges. The
SFRWQCB also issues and monitors enforcement actions when water quality standards are
violated. Records indicate that overall FSSD has effectively secured needed permits for the
WWTP and disposal and has completed its monitoring requirement. The RWQCB has taken
informal enforcement actions with the FSSD only a few times. The most recently, in 2007, the
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RWQCB issued a fine/citation for chlorine, coliform, and pH violations occurring since 2003.
(FSSD, 2016c).
The treatment plant currently operates under Wastewater Discharge Permit Order No. R2-2015-
0013 (NPDES No. CA0038024), allowing discharge of treated effluent. At the WWTP, a variety
of water quality constituents are sampled and monitored consistent with permits from the San
Francisco Regional Water Quality Control Board (SFRWQCB). The constituents monitored
include biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) and total suspended solids (TSS), oil and grease,
pH, ammonia (as total nitrogen), turbidity, copper, cyanide, and dioxin-TEQ (SFRWQCB, 2015).
Table 3.12: Summary of FSSD Permits from State Water Board
Permit # Description
ORDER No. R2-2015-0013 Current valid permit
NPDES Permit No. Current permit pursuant to National Pollutant
CA0038024. Discharge Elimination System
NPDES Permit Nos. Valid permits. Establish requirements on mercury
CA0038849 and CA0038873 and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and nutrients
from wastewater discharges to San Francisco Bay.
Order No. R2-2015-0013 does not affect those permits.
In September 2013, FSSD experienced an exceedance of its copper average monthly effluent
limitation (AMEL) of 7.9 µg/L with a monthly average concentration of 8.4 µg/L. This incident
represents a minor violation (based on a single sample collected on September 4, 2013) of water
quality regulations. The Regional Water Board required FSSD to submit additional information
and addressed the issue using informal processes (SFRWQCB, 2015). The SFRWQCB also notes
that FSSD neglected to properly monitor pH on two occasions, from April 2 through April 3,
2011, and on April 8, 2011, due to operator error. FSSD took proactive steps to correct the
problem and formal enforcement was not pursued (SFRWQCB, 2015).
Table 3.13 below lists sanitary sewer overflow (SSO) rates (total SSOs per 100 miles of collection
system for each of the past four years) that FSSD has experienced. FSSD had no SSOs in 2011,
2012, and 2014, and two SSOs in 2013, neither of which reached surface waters. FSSD has fewer
SSOs as compared to similar sewer districts in the San Francisco Bay region. This demonstrates
FSSD’s successful and on-going attention to the prevention of blockages, inflows, and
malfunctions and this results in safeguarding human and environmental health.
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Table 3.13: SSO Rates (total SSOs/100 miles of sewer)
(based on CIWQS data analysis completed in February 2015)
Length Average Age 2011 2012 2013 2014
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 83 miles 35 years 0 0 2.4 0
Solano County median of 2 medium
84 miles 33 years 0.7 1.3 2.5 0.6
systems (10 to 99 miles)
San Francisco Bay median of 49 medium
38 miles 42 years 5.9 9.3 12 6.3
systems (10 to 99 miles)
San Francisco Bay Region median of all 132
41 miles 45 years 4.0 4.6 4.5 2.7
systems
Data Source: SFRWQCB, 2015 (Order No. R2-2015-0013)
Proposed Improvements to WWTP
FSSD’s 2008 Master Plan and Master Plan EIR describes proposed improvements to the
collection system and treatment plant needed to accommodate planned development within the
FSSD service area through 2020. Improvements relate to expanding the WWTP and associated
infrastructure to increase the rated capacity, including construction of a new 15 inch sewer in
the central portion of the Train Station Specific Plan Area along Vanden Road; a new 15-inch
pipeline down Peabody Road; and a 21-inch sewer pipeline along Huntington Drive.
Additionally, a new pipe
along East Tabor Road is
Figure 3.11
also proposed. (FSSD 2005,
Fairfield, 2010).
New Development
The Train Station Specific
Plan within the City of
Fairfield would result in
the development of new
uses that would require
wastewater collection and
treatment. Wastewater
flows from the Train
Station Specific Plan Area
are estimated to range from
approximately 3.65 mgd
for average dry weather
flows to as high as
approximately 5.3 mgd for
peak wet weather design
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flow, as calculated using
FSSD design standards
(Fairfield, 2010). The
Train Station Specific
Plan Area will be larger
than anticipated in
FSSD’s 2008 Master
Plan. The Train Station
Specific Plan recognized
that implementation of
the Specific Plan could
result in additional
wastewater flows to the
WWTP that were not
previously accounted
for and additional
improvements to
District owned facilities
may be needed
(Fairfield, 201011). The
developer will work
with FSSD to address
this issue.
Summary
There are several
measures of integrity for
a wastewater collection system, including peaking factors, efforts to address infiltration and
inflow (I/I), and inspection practices. FSSD’s capital improvement plan considers these factors.
Wastewater flow from connections can be estimated based on use of treated municipal (potable)
water supplied to various land-uses as measured with water meters. Water conservation
programs can effectively reduce the amount of flow into the FSSD collection system during dry
weather.
11 Data source: DEIR on Fairfield Train Station Specific Plan page 4.15-21 to 4.15-23. Available on-line at:
http://www.fairfield.ca.gov/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?blobid=6527
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Table 3.11: Summary of FSSD WWTP Capacity
Facility Permitted Flow 23.7 MGD average dry weather flow
Facility Design Flow 23.7 MGD – average daily dry weather effluent design flow
Actual Average Daily Flow: 12.2 MGD
Source: SFRWQCB, 2015 and Appendix A-2, (http://www.fssd.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/District-
Brochure-_Publisher_ed.5.pdf )
**Note: Numbers in this table are preliminary and subject to change.
Disposal System Infrastructure
After treatment at the WWTP, the disinfected effluent is either recycled or discharged to
Boynton Slough, with intermittent discharges to two duck ponds and Ledgewood Creek. 90%
of the effluent is discharged to the Suisun Marsh12. The remaining 10% of effluent is recycled
(FSSD, 2016c).
Biosolids
Residuals are produced as a result of sewage treatment. The residuals are concentrated and
anaerobically digested. After digestion, these residual, also referred to as ‘biosolids’ are de-
watered either via mechanical means or via an open-air solar drying bed/lagoon. In the past
(i.e. prior to October 2016) the resulting biosolids were transported to Potrero Hills Landfill for
use as alternative daily cover (SFRWQCB, 2015). Recently, FSSD entered into an agreement with
Lytsek International whereby Lystek processes the resulting biosolids into a biofertilizer called
LysteGro and provides it for application to agriculture lands. Lystek leases a small site from the
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District in a public-private partnership for the Organic Material
Recovery Center. The Lystek hydrolysis process diverts biosolids from the landfill. The
technology can be used to produce biogas for use as green energy by the FSSD. This system
presents sustainable, year-round organics management for the Bay Area.
Wastewater Supply/Demand
Supply and demand for water and sewer districts are typically influenced by population
numbers and land-use. Additionally, new development occurring within the District could
result in an increase in the demand for these services and the need for additional infrastructure.
12 In 2013, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the SFRWQCB recommended two best
management practices (BMP) regarding the discharge of FSSD wastewater in to Suisun Marsh. These
BMP’s are guidelines prepared as part of development of a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) study (EPA
and SFRWQCB, 2013) FSSD works with the Solano Resource Conservation District to coordinate effluent
releases to the managed wetlands.
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Prolonged drought and associated water conservation measures can also result in reduced
inflow into the FSSD collection and treatment systems.
Factors that can influence the District’s ability to provide wastewater service to customers
include treatment plant capacity and Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB)
regulations. The District upgraded its WWTP and construction was completed in 2010. FSSD’s
infrastructure has been designed to accommodate growth within the two cities. As Fairfield
and Suisun City update their General Plan, FSSD utilizes this data to predict future growth rates
etc. (FSSD, 2016). FSSD estimates that the population served will grow over the next five years
at an average of 1 percent. This is generally consistent with the project growth rate from ABAG
shown in Table 3.4 as 1.02 percent.
Figure 3.13, below shows the historic and recent capacity of the WWTP as measured by average
annual dry weather flow.
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In 2008 FSSD prepared a Sewer System Master Plan that described improvements to the
District’s collection, treatment, and disposal system through the year 2020. Since wastewater
flows have not changed substantially since 2008 due to the drought and the recession, the
Master Plan has not been updated. A limited update to the 2008 Master Plan is expected in 2017
(FSSD, 2016).
Although FSSD’s collection, treatment, and disposal infrastructure is generally sized to
accommodate the anticipated growth for the next five to ten years, incremental planning on a
project-by-project basis remains necessary. This also requires close coordination between FSSD
and the cities. For example, when a new residential neighborhood is constructed within a city,
the private developer typically builds the sewer pipeline collection system, sized only to serve
the specific new neighborhood. Management and maintenance of these pipelines is typically
specified in the project conditions of approval and could include: 1) maintenance by private
HOA, 2) transfer of ownership/maintenance to the City or 3) transfer of ownership/maintenance
to the FSSD (FSSD, 2016c). For example, within the City of Fairfield, the Fairfield Train Station
Specific Plan has noted that both the Suisun and Central Basins pump stations do not currently
have the physical capacity to accommodate planned growth east of Peabody Road, which
includes most of the Specific Plan
Area. However, the Master Plans and
the District budget include projects
that provide additional capacity to
accommodate the planned growth.
For all new annexations in the area,
the City of Fairfield requires
developers to prepare sewer master
plans to indicate how growth will be
accommodated (Fairfield, 2010).
Water Recycling
Operating under approval from the
state of California, the District
recycles treated water derived from
its Wastewater Treatment Plant
(WWTP). The WWTP produces
disinfected advanced secondary
treated effluent. The resulting
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effluent is either discharged to surface waters or discharged to land as recycled water. The
District has produced and managed the use of recycled water consistent with its permit
(General Order No. 96-011) from the Regional Water Quality Control Board since 1978. The
FSSD Water Recycling Program produced approximately 430 million gallons of recycled water
in 2015 (FSSD, 2016a).
Currently, recycled water produced at the FSSD WWTP is delivered to farms adjacent to the
WWTP for crop irrigation, and also to a tank near the WWTP entrance. Recycled water is
trucked from this tank to the Potrero Hills landfill in Suisun City, where it is used for dust
control (FSSD, 2016a).
Approximately 5 to10 percent of the plant’s treated effluent is recycled for agricultural and
landscape irrigation. Water recycling is regulated for water quality purposes by Regional Water
Board Order No. 96-011. Monitoring of water quality is performed by FSSD. No recycled water
violations were noted in 2015 (FSSD, 2016a). Based on studies it has conducted, FSSD believes
that all existing and currently projected recycled water demands can be met under the existing
capacity of the WWTP (FSSD, 2016a).
It should be noted that CA Government Code Section 56133 indicates that a district “may
provide new or extended services by contract or agreement outside its jurisdictional boundary
only if it first requests and receives written approval from the commission.” The Government
Code allows exemptions to the requirement to obtain LAFCO approval for situations involving:
• (2) The transfer of nonpotable or nontreated water.
• (3) The provision of surplus water to agricultural lands and facilities
FSSD treats and recycles the water resulting from its wastewater treatment process and delivers
this recycled water to customers located outside FSSD boundaries. This service meets the above
Government Code Section 56133(e) (2) exemption because the recycled water is “nonpotable”
and is “surplus water” used on “agricultural lands”.
Water Recycling Facilities
Ten percent of the effluent resulting from the WWTP is utilized as recycled water. If recycled
water distribution is to increase in the future, then construction of additional facilities may be
necessary. FSSD’s annual planning can address future infrastructure needs for their water
recycling program.
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Storm Drainage
Floods have occurred in the
Fairfield Suisun area in
1973, 1978, and 1982. The
January 1982 flood was
particularly large, bringing
storm water up to six feet in
depth to the area. Creeks
prone to flooding include
Ledgewood Creek,
Pennsylvania Avenue
Creek, Union Avenue Creek, Laurel Creek, and McCoy Creek (USACOE, 2005). To protect
their community from future flooding, the Cities of Fairfield and Suisun City partnered with
the US Army Corps of Engineers and the California Reclamation Board on a comprehensive
flood control plan known as the “Fairfield Vicinity Streams Project” which included
construction of new bridges, recreational facilities, channel revegetation, improvements to two
detention basins, and creation of diversion channels and drop structures. Through the
Fairfield Vicinity Streams Project, the City of Fairfield actively acquired the right-of-way
needed for creek improvements. Then, Fairfield collaborated with the Army Corps and the
Reclamation Board to execute the Local Cooperation Agreement on June 3, 1986. After the
project was completed by USACOE, it was transferred to its local sponsors for operation and
maintenance (USACOE, 2005) and the result is the March 1, 1988 "Drainage Maintenance
Agreement" among the Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District, the City of Fairfield, and the City of
Suisun City. This agreement provided a mechanism for funding the maintenance of the
"Fairfield Streams" federal flood control project which serves both cities. Although the District
does not own any storm drainage facilities, it is authorized by statute to provide storm
drainage services. The District created a storm drainage maintenance enterprise fund and
established fees for users of the system which are collected on the county tax roll each year.
Revenues are shared by the cities and the District for flood control activities. Currently, the
District assists the cities by overseeing the Urban Runoff Management Program, and operating
and maintaining city-owned stormwater pumping stations. Annual rates remained unchanged
at $20.23 per residence. Total annual revenues collected for Drainage Maintenance Fund is
approximately $1.5 million each year.
Although the District’s enabling legislation allows FSSD to provide storm water services and
storm water collection, outfall and disposal system (Article 4, Section 42), its role is contractual
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between the District, the City of Fairfield, and Suisun City. The District has a staff position
dedicated to coordinating storm water management with the two cities. FSSD’s technical staff
provides advice and expertise related to storm water regulatory compliance and permits (FSSD,
2016c). The storm water system is not connected to FSSD’s wastewater system; the systems are
separate. Each of the two collaborating cities have their own policies and plans. The two cities
also own the storm water infrastructure (FSSD, 2016c).
The 150 acre WWTP site also generates its own storm water. Storm water originating on the
plant’s grounds is directed offsite and regulated under the statewide Industrial Storm Water
Permit (NPDES General Permit No. CAS000001).
Adequacy and Challenges in Provision of Service and
Infrastructure
The biggest challenges identified regarding FSSD’s provision public of services including
sewage collection, treatment, disposal, water recycling, storm drainage management are as
follows:
Addressing anticipated future regulations dealing with nutrient loads of water
discharged into the San Francisco Bay, and
Supporting the restoration of Suisun Marsh and participation in the implementation of
Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL) best management practices (EPA and SFRWQCB,
2013).
In order to continue the adequate provision of public service and infrastructure, FSSD utilizes
several best management practices. Best management practices are defined as methods
or techniques found to be the most effective and practical means in achieving an objective (such
as minimizing pollution) while making optimal use of the District’s resources. Some of the
FSSD’s best management
practices are incorporated into
its 2008 Master Plan.
Additionally, FSSD stays
updated on innovations in the
wastewater industry. For
example, FSSD was recognized
by a consortium of national
water and wastewater
associations, including National
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Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) as a “Utility of the Future”. One specific best
practice is that FSSD stays updated regarding the status of City of Fairfield and Suisun City
General Plans (FSSD, 2016c).
FSSD’s innovative use of renewable energy associated with wastewater treatment demonstrates
that it has already implemented several of the management practices which highlights ongoing
good work at the local level to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The challenges faced by FSSD and described above are indicative of an agency that functions in
a multi-jurisdictional environment and this contributes to the complexity of situations that
FSSD faces. The agencies that FSSD works productively with are numerous. Key players
include the City of Fairfield, City of Suisun City, Solano County, Solano LAFCO, the
SFRWQCB, and stakeholders in Suisun Marsh. FSSD, like other wastewater providers in the
San Francisco Bay Area, faces several challenges and is actively working to address those
challenges.
Findings & Determinations: Present and Planned Capacity of
Public Facilities
8. FSSD collects wastewater from approximately 54,000 sewer connections that serve
140,400 residents in Fairfield and Suisun City. One FSSD connection can potentially
serve many individual customers. For example, Travis AFB is “one” connection. Most
residential customers connect to the City-owned collection lines for sewer, not FSSD.
9. The facilities and infrastructure on which FSSD depends have variable ages. FSSD
replaces and repairs infrastructure on a regular basis. FSSD has implemented collection
system BMPs and addresses preventative maintenance and scheduled replacement of
aging infrastructure.
10. FSSD owns and operates its wastewater collection system which connects to its WWTP.
The FSSD system functions with the satellite collection systems owned and operated by
the Cities of Fairfield and Suisun City and Travis Air Force Base. Each entity has
adopted a Sewer System Management Plan.
11. FSSD’s recent capacity upgrades (such as the Suisun Pump Station upgrades)
demonstrate its continued investment in the system.
12. Actual flow is significantly less than design capacity, hence the WWTP has adequate
capacity to accommodate existing customers.
13. FSSD has fewer sanitary sewer overflows as compared to similar sewer districts in the
San Francisco Bay region as shown in Table 3.13. This demonstrates FSSD’s successful
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and on-going attention to the prevention of blockages, inflows, and malfunctions and
this results in safeguarding human and environmental health.
14. FSSD has contracted with private company (Lystek) to develop innovative methods and
beneficial uses for biosolids that result from the WWTP.
15. Generally, new development occurring within the District could result in an increase in
the demand for sewer services and the need for additional infrastructure. For example,
the implementation of the City of Fairfield Train Station Specific Plan could result in
additional wastewater flows to the WWTP that were not previously accounted for and
additional improvements to District owned facilities may be needed.
16. Similar to other sanitation districts, FSSD faces challenges regarding the provision public
of services including sewage collection, treatment, disposal, water recycling, and storm
drainage management. Challenges include addressing anticipated future regulations
dealing with nutrient discharges, and supporting the restoration of Suisun Marsh with
the implementation of Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL). The challenges faced by
FSSD are indicative of an agency that functions in a multi-jurisdictional environment
and this contributes to the complexity of situations that FSSD faces.
17. FSSD’s innovative use of renewable energy to offset the electricity cost associated with
wastewater treatment demonstrates that it has already implemented several
management practices which highlights the ongoing work at the local level to save
energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
3.5: FINANCIAL ABILITY TO PROVIDE SERVICES
Financing
In California, special districts are classified as enterprise or non-enterprise districts, based on
their source of revenue:
Enterprise districts: Finance of district operations is via fees for public service. Under
this model, the customers that consume goods or services such as drinking or irrigation
water, waste disposal, or electricity, pay a fee. Rates are set by a governing board and
there is a nexus between the costs of providing services and the rates customers pay.
Sometimes enterprise district may also receive property taxes which comprise a portion
of their budget. ( FSSD does not receive property tax revenue.)
Non-enterprise districts: Districts which receive property taxes are typically classified as
non-enterprise districts. Services that indirectly benefit the entire community, such as
flood or fire protection, community centers, and cemetery districts are often funded
through property taxes.
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FSSD is an enterprise district, since most of the revenue come from the rates charged for service.
Budgets are adopted in public meetings on a biennial basis. The District prepares and approves
a biennial budget, along with a ten-year financial plan. Budget status updates are is presented
to the Board of Directors in non-budget years. The District’s finances are managed as enterprise
funds. The fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends on June 30. Budgets for recent years are
available to the public via the District’s website13. Copies of financial audits are available upon
request from District staff. FSSD has one budget policy which it describes in its annual budget
as the 2005 policy on Major Maintenance/Replacement Reserve, where an average 1% of plant
replacement cost over a 10-year period is reserved. These contributions help the District
accumulate sufficient reserves for infrastructure maintenance and replacement (FSSD Budget,
2015). FSSD does not appear to have an adopted management and budget policy which
addresses budget preparation, fixed asset accounting, investment of funds, and expense
authorization. It is recommended that prior to preparation of the next MSR, FSSD should adopt
a policy which addresses budget preparation, fixed asset accounting, investment of funds, and
expense authorization and share this policy with LAFCO.
FSSD's financial statements are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles (GAAP). The Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) is responsible for
establishing GAAP for state and local governments through its statements and interpretations.
The District uses the accrual basis of accounting (FSSD, CAFR, 2015). The most recent
independent auditor’s report was prepared for Fiscal Year (FY) 2014/2015 and dated September
29, 2015, and was attached to the District’s Financial Statements. The audit found that there
were no issues of noncompliance on financial matters that are required to be reported under
Government Auditing Standards (Chavan & Associates, 2015).
Table 3.14: Financial Performance Indicators
MSR Key Performance Indicators Notes
Summary financial information presented in a standard format and Yes, in budget and CAFR
simple language.
Reserve funds and their purpose Described in biennual budget
District policy on the accumulation and use of reserves
Plans for the future, including anticipated revenues, expenditures, Described in biennial budget
reserves, and trends in user rates
Rates Adopted via Ordinance
13 FSSD budget is available at: http://www.fssd.com/budget-and-financial-plan/
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Revenues
FSSD has two basic types of revenue:
Operating revenues consist primarily of charges for services.
Non-operating revenues and expenses are related to financing and investing type
activities
The District primarily receives revenue as fees for service. Sources of revenue include:
wastewater service charges, drainage fees, and capacity fees. The District receives no property
tax revenues. FSSD also receives interest income which is a non-operating source of revenue.
California’s drought and water conservation efforts during years 2010 to 2015 resulted in
reduced flows to the wastewater treatment plant. The reduced wastewater flow resulted in
reduced sewer service revenue (FSSD CAFR, 2015). Revenues received from commercial and
industrial customers comprise 23% of the total sewer service charges (FSSD CAFR, 2015). The
District charges a new connection fee when new homes are built that need to connect to the
system. On commercial properties, a change of use may trigger a new connection fee if
additional sewer use is needed. [Connection fee revenue is trending upward, which is a sign of
increased real estate development activities. For example, a restaurant at a shopping center that
is leased or sold may be required pay connection fees for the additional sewer use (FSSD CAFR,
2015). Total operating revenues increased by 8% and capacity fees increased by 19% in FY
14/15. In FY 14/15, charges for wastewater service represented 93% of FSSD’s revenue as shown
in Figure 3.14 and Table 3.15, below. Drainage fees represented 6 percent and other misc.
revenue was one percent. The amount of interest income is so small (less than one percent) it is
not visible on Figure 3.14.
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Table 3.15: FSSD’s Schedule 2
Condensed Statements of Revenues
Last Ten Fiscal Years ($000)
Fiscal Year Ended June 30,
2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006
Revenues:
Service charges $ 23,067 $ 20,881 $ 19,445 $ 19,115 $ 18,895 $ 18,014 $ 16,960 $ 16,998 $ 16,368 $ 15,960
Drainage fees 1,545 1,501 1,491 1,486 1,455 1,468 1,462 1,470 1,410 1,375
Interest income 61 50 50 52 72 157 589 1,848 2,930 2,110
Other (1) 219 596 178 248 97 316 39 250 877 9
Capacity fees 3,157 2,647 2,472 1,405 1,223 990 979 943 3,767 5,383
Total revenues 28,049 25,675 23,636 22,306 21,742 20,945 20,029 21,509 25,352 24,837
Source: District Audited Financial Statements, 2015
Figure 3.14: FSSD Revenue, 2015
Service charges Drainage fees Interest income Other (1)
0% 1%
6%
93%
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-47
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Expenses
In FY 14/15, total expenses (including depreciation, interest expense, and net of pension expense
adjustment) were almost $24 million which represents a 0.4 percent decrease from FY 13/14 as
shown in Table 3.16. Expenses associated with business operations were the largest category,
representing 53% of total expenses as shown in Figure 3.15. Overall expenses for FY 14/15
remained relatively unchanged from the previous year. The increase in business operations, general
and administrative, and billing and collection, were offset by the decrease in depreciation and
interest expense. Interest expense continues to decline as debt obligation nears maturity and the
2010 Sewer Revenue Refunding matures in 2016. Table 3.16, below, lists operating expenses
include the cost of providing and delivering services, administrative expenses, and depreciation on
capital assets. All other expenses are classified as non-operating expenses.
Source: FSSD CAFR, 2015
Figure 3.15: FSSD Expenses 2015
Interest expense
2%
Depreciation
23%
Billing and
collection Business
2% operations
53%
General and
administrative
8%
Sewer line
maintenance
12%
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Final Wastewater Services MSR
Table 3.16: FSSD’s Schedule 2
Condensed Statements of Expenses, and Changes in Net Position
Last Ten Fiscal Years ($000)
Fiscal Year Ended June 30,
2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006
Expenses:
Business operations 12,677 12,354 11,500 12,685 12,068 12,351 11,603 11,999 11,413 12,835
Sewer line maintenance 2,836 2,890 2,797 2,780 2,663 2,384 2,503 2,362 2,088 1,983
General and administrative 1,904 1,872 2,038 2,592 1,711 1,821 1,985 3,073 3,065 2,989
Billing and collection 528 511 493 474 459 446 476 427 406 388
Interest expense 489 526 606 655 403 767 833 1,183 1,129 1,275
Depreciation 5,370 5,736 5,807 6,892 6,644 5,799 4,600 3,948 3,703 3,657
Total expenses 23,804 23,889 23,241 26,078 23,948 23,568 22,000 22,992 21,804 23,127
Change in net position 4,245 1,786 395 (3,772) (2,206) (2,623) (1,971) (1,483) 3,548 1,710
Net position, beginning of period 83,899 82,113 81,718 85,490 87,696 90,319 92,290 93,773 90,225 88,515
Prior period adjustment, GASB 68 (4,343) - - - - - - - - -
Net position, as restated 79,556 82,113 81,718 85,490 87,696 90,319 92,290 93,773 90,225 88,515
Net position, end of period $ 83,801 $ 83,899 $ 82,113 $ 81,718 $ 85,490 $ 87,696 $ 90,319 $ 92,290 $ 93,773 $ 90,225
(1) Includes net increase (decrease) in fair value of
investments
Source: District Audited Financial Statements, 2015
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Final Wastewater Services MSR
A comparison of annual total revenue to total expenses, as provided in Figure 3.16 below,
shows that annual expenses exceeded revenues in half of the ten year study period (i.e. 2012,
2011, 2010, 2009, and 2008). The expenses were used to fund capital improvement projects.
Revenues hit a low point during the years 2008 to 2011. This indicates that having sufficient
reserve funds is important to FSSD to help it weather the economically lean years. Please also
see the discussion of rates presented on page 3-59 of this MSR.
30,000,000
25,000,000
20,000,000
15,000,000
10,000,000
5,000,000
0
15 14 13 12 11 10 O9 O8 O7 O6
Capital Improvement Plan
The District lists upcoming capital improvement projects as line items in the budget’s Schedule
4 Projects. Anticipated capital improvement projects include:
Blower Project funded via SRF Loan
Cordelia Pump Station
Northeast Fairfield P.S.
Peabody Walters S-245A
Aeration System Rehab
Suisun Force main Alignment
(Data Source: FSSD, 2015)
These improvement projects are expected to be completed within the next ten years (through
year 2025). New construction projects over $45,000 are individually approved by the Board.
Additionally, Schedule 4 lists several studies that will be completed in upcoming years
including capacity analyses, new development review/inspection, connection fee study, safety,
information systems, project planning, sewer service rate study, community outreach upgrade,
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-50
$
.S.U
Figure 3.16: FSSD Revenues and Expenses
Revenues
Expenses
Fiscal Year
Data Source: FSSD, CAFR Schedule 2, 2015
Final Wastewater Services MSR
and a compensation survey. These studies are expected to be completed within the next ten
years (through year 2025).
Reserves
In California, many independent special districts have accumulated reserves. There are no
standards guiding the size and use of reserve funds. Reserve and investment policies and
practices could be improved through the establishment of guidelines and enhanced scrutiny.
FSSD’s long-term financial plan is used is in conjunction with the District’s Master Plan to
facilitate build-up of reserve funds for use on major expansion projects without accumulating a
high debt load. FSSD’s 2005 policy on Major Maintenance/Replacement Reserve allows an
average 1% of plant replacement cost over a 10-year period is reserved. These contributions
help the District accumulate sufficient reserves for infrastructure maintenance and replacement
(FSSD Budget, 2015). FSSD has over $17 million in reserves/investments as detailed in Tables
3.17 and 3.18, below.
Table 3.17: FSSD Reserve Funds
Name of Reserve Fund Designated Use of Reserve $ Amount in Fund
Fund
Major Maintenance Sewer collection, treatment, Approximately $4,121,000 as
Reserve Fund disposal infrastructure. described in FY 15/16 and 16/17
Maintenance and biennial budgets. Likely held in
replacement. Future plant investments as detailed below.
upgrades
Capital Reserve Making cash contributions to Approximately $275,000 as
capital projects and making described in FY 15/16 and 16/17
debt service payments biennial budgets. Likely held in
investments as detailed below.
Operating Reserve $3,325,000 as described in FY
15/16 and 16/17 biennial
budgets. Likely held in
investments as detailed below.
Drainage Major Reserve for unanticipated $373,000 as described in FY 15/16
Maintenance Reserve cost increases in maintenance and 16/17 biennial budgets.
projects Likely held in investments as
detailed below.
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Drainage Capital Reserve accumulated for $80,000 as described in FY 15/16
Reserve capital projects to the extent and 16/17 biennial budgets.
there is available revenue. Likely held in investments as
detailed below.
Drainage Desilting $216,000 as described in FY 15/16
Reserve and 16/17 biennial budgets.
Likely held in investments as
detailed below.
Drainage Operations Reserve accumulated for $150,000 as described in FY 15/16
Reserve unexpected operations and 16/17 biennial budgets.
expense. Likely held in investments as
detailed below.
Debt Service Reserve Funds
State Revolving Fund Funds held by the bond $737,038 per FSSD CAFR 2015
reserve for debt service trustee for debt service
reserve
2010 Refunding Funds held by the bond $1.3 million per FSSD CAFR
Revenue Bonds debt trustee for debt service 2015
service reserve reserve
Data Source: (FSSD CAFR, 2015 and FSSD Budget FY 15/16 and 16/17).
Major Maintenance Reserve: This reserve funds major maintenance and repairs, upgrades, and
eventual replacement of the treatment plant and sewer system. A 2005 Board adopted policy on
contributions to the Major Maintenance and Replacement Reserve calls for a minimum of 1.0%
of plant replacement cost to be contributed to the reserve each year that net income allows.
Capital Reserve: This reserve accumulates annual net revenues for two purposes: making cash
contributions to capital projects and making debt service payments if capacity fee shortages are
experienced. Balances are periodically built up, then, subsequently drawn down to pay for
sewer and treatment plant expansion projects.
Debt Service Reserve: Funds are held in debt service reserve by the bond trustee for debt
service purposes. The bond reserve of $1.4 million will become available to the District in 2016
when the bond matures, and will be used for final payment. FSSD established the debt service
reserve account in November 2011, in compliance with the State Revolving Fund loan
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Final Wastewater Services MSR
agreement. The Major Maintenance Fund is used to fund this reserve and it is not available to
the District until the loan is paid in full in 2031.
Reserve funds are allowed to be invested as authorized by the California Government Code and
the District’s Investment Policy. FSSD maintains the following investments:
U.S. Treasury Obligations
U.S. Agency Securities
State of California Obligations
Bankers Acceptances
Commercial Paper
Medium Term Corporate Notes
Mortgage Pass-Through Securities
Repurchase Agreements
Reverse Repurchase Agreements
Negotiable Certificates of Deposit
California Local Agency Investment Fund
Mutual Funds
Money Market Mutual Funds
As shown in Table 3.17, below, FSSD has over $16 million in several investment types including
U.S. Treasuries, CA Local Agency Investment Fund, and investments held by Trustees. (There
are also other funds as previously described in Table 3.17 above).
Table 3.18: FSSD Investment Summary
June 30, 2015
Fair Value Weighted Ave Years to
Maturity
U.S. Treasuries/Money Market $14,902,964 0.01
CA Local Agency Investment Fund 5,056 0.64
Held by Trustees
U.S. Government Agencies 1,284,090 0.07
Money Market 2 0.00
Total Investments $16,192,112
Data Source for above table: (FSSD CAFR, 2015).
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-53
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Comparing the size of a district’s reserve/investment fund to their annual gross revenue is a
common financial metric. Table 3.18, above indicates that total investments are $16,192,112. In
FY 14/15, gross revenue was $28,049,378. The comparative calculation shows that total
investments are equivalent to 0.58 of annual gross revenue.
Rates
FSSD charges fees for both wastewater and storm drainage service. Fees for wastewater
treatment services are established via FSSD’s Sewer Capacity and Service Charge Ordinance
(Ordinance No. 05-01 and Ordinance No. 77-3, as amended). The District has two types of
sewer fees: monthly service charges and capacity fees. Monthly service charges are included
on city utility bills at the rates shown in Table 3.19, below.
Table 3.19: Monthly Service Charges
FY FY 2016/17
Customer Class 2014/15 Increase Rate Increase
A. Residential Rate $34.56 5.2% $36.35 3.1%
B. Commercial, Regular Strength $2.73 6.2% $2.90 3.8%
C. Commercial, Special Strength $4.70 3.8% $4.88 4.9%
D. Industrial, Regular Strength $2.73 6.2% $2.90 -2.4%
E. Travis Airforce Base $2.09 3.6% $2.17 3.9%
F. Industrial, Case-by-Case
F.1 Flow charge per million gallon $2,299.07 7.4% $2,469.06 -2.5%
F.2 Plus BOD charge per thousand lbs. of $340.41 3.1% $351.05 31.7%
F.3 Plus SS charge per Thousand lbs. of SS $177.76 3.2% $183.48 9.8%
G. Anheuser Busch
G.1 Flow charge per million gallon $2,400.04 9.4% $2,624.84 -8.3%
G.2 Plus BOD charge per thousand lbs. of $339.70 3.3% $351.05 31.7%
G.3 Plus SS charge per Thousand lbs. of SS $177.38 3.4% $183.48 9.8%
Sewer capacity fees are collected for the District by the Cities of Fairfield and Suisun City.
Sewer capacity charges must be paid before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued. The rates are
shown in Figure 3.18, below.
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Table 3.20: Sewer Capacity Charges (2016)
Residential Class
Single Family Dwelling $5,943
Multi-Family Dwelling
$5,943 $3,566
First unit in each building Each additional unit in the same building
Hotel, Auto Court, Motel, Rooming House, Trailer Court
$5,943 $2,971
First unit in each building Each additional unit or trailer space
Commercial and Industrial Class
Commercial and Industrial Enterprise $5,943
Data Source: Staff memorandum to the FSSD Board on November 17, 2016 with Subject: 2016 Sewer Service Charge
and Capacity Fee Study Update and available on line at: http://www.fssd.com/wp-
content/uploads/2017/01/112816_Agenda-and-Minutes.pdf
In municipal service reviews, LAFCO often assess whether rates are sufficient to cover
operating expenses, debt service, and planned capital improvements. FSSD’s biennial budget
contains a Long-Term Financial Plan as shown in Schedules 4, 5, 6, and 7. Schedule 6 shows
that revenues are expected to exceed expenses through the year 2025. Reserves will be
maintained with positive balances through the year 2025. Additionally, in January 2016, the
FSSD Board authorized a Consulting Services Agreement with Bartle Wells Associates to
conduct an update to the 2005 Cost of Service and Rate Study. Based on this 2016 rate study,
FSSD expects to circulate a Prop 218 notice in early 2017 and to prepare a Rate Ordinance for
Board consideration in March 2017.
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Findings & Determinations: Financial Ability of District to Provide
Services
18. FSSD is an enterprise district.
19. FSSD has one budget policy which it describes in its annual budget as the 2005 policy on
Major Maintenance/Replacement Reserve, where an average 1% of plant replacement
cost over a 10-year period is reserved. These contributions help the District accumulate
sufficient reserves for infrastructure maintenance and replacement (FSSD Budget, 2015).
FSSD does not appear to have an adopted management and budget policy which
addresses budget preparation, fixed asset accounting, investment of funds, and expense
authorization. It is recommended that prior to preparation of the next MSR, FSSD
should adopt a policy which addresses budget preparation, fixed asset accounting,
investment of funds, and expense authorization and share this policy with LAFCO.
20. The Budget and Long Term Financial Plan are adopted in public meetings on a biennial
basis.
21. FSSD receives an audited financial statement on an annual basis.
22. In FY 14/15, total annual revenue was $28 million and total annual expense was almost
$24 million. FSSD’s biennial budget contains a Long-Term Financial Plan and Schedule
6 shows that revenues are expected to exceed expenses through the year 2025. Reserves
will be maintained with positive balances through the year 2025. This data suggests that
FSSD has the financial ability to continue to provide public services into the future.
23. FSSD’s long-term financial plan is used is in conjunction with the District’s Master Plan
to facilitate build-up of reserve funds for use on major expansion projects without
accumulating a high debt load.
3.6: OPPORTUNITIES FOR SHARED FACILITIES & COST
AVOIDANCE
3.6.1. Shared Facilities and Regional Cooperation
LAFCOs describe shared facilities and regional cooperation in municipal service reviews
because it is thought that a local government agency’s ability to partner with another entity,
public or private, in order to accomplish the same level of public service, while splitting the
costs to deliver the service will provide an efficiency of service. Ideally, a sharing or cooperative
arrangement would yield the same public service at less cost, and with less resources required
from a community to pay for those results. Another aim of LAFCO is to avoid the duplication
of service.
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Final Wastewater Services MSR
Due to the geographic location of the District, it would be difficult for it to share wastewater
collection, treatment, and disposal facilities with neighboring sanitation districts. However,
FSSD has a long history of collaboration with its neighboring government agencies and FSSD
performs the following collaborative activities:
Cooperates with the Cities of Fairfield and Suisun by using the City billing department,
such that the Cities bill for sewer on the city water bill.
Provides technical staff to Cities on storm drain issues.
Operates and maintains stormwater pump stations (1988 MOU for storm pump).
Collects and remits storm drain fees for both of the Cities.
Performs T.V. inspections of city sewer lines.
Avoids duplication of storm drain service. For example, FSSD provides storm drainage
expertise to Suisun City, who benefits from this service efficiency.
Contributes funds towards the household hazardous waste facility, which is open
several days per week and located near the garbage dump.
Additionally, Solano County performs collaborative activities which benefit FSSD and other
local governments. For example, Solano County does some billing for sewer service in
unincorporated areas that have less than 50 customers. This shared billing service is outsourced
to the County (FSSD, 2016c). Another example is that County staff assists with routine
inspections of pollution sources. Solano County already performs inspections of local
businesses, and FSSD gives the County additional items to inspect for pollution control
purposes. This allows the inspections for hazardous materials, storm drains, and wastewater
pollution prevention to be conducted concurrently by County staff.
Participation in local watershed associations and integrated regional water management groups
may provide additional opportunities for regional cooperation. Additionally, it is
recommended that FSSD continue to be open to new opportunities to provide service in a
collaborative manner. FSSD can assess new collaborative ideas as they arise.
3.6.2. Cost Avoidance
This section highlights cost avoidance practices given necessary service requirements and
expectations. Ideally, proposed methods to reduce costs would not adversely affect service
levels. In general, wastewater and storm drainage systems have a fixed cost associated with
operations and maintenance and have a variable cost dependent upon water flow. Given these
constraints, FSSD pursues an array of cost avoidance techniques that each contributes
incrementally towards keeping costs at a reasonable level. Specifically, during the last five
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-58
Final Wastewater Services MSR
years FSSD has taken the following actions to save money, lower expenses, and improve
services:
• Participation in a joint insurance pool with the California Sanitation Risk Management
Authority (http://www.csrma.org/). Insurance includes worker’s compensation,
property damage, and liability.
• Conducts competitive bidding
• Shares its operational staff with the cities by offering technical expertise on storm water
permitting issues.
• Conducts energy management to lower energy costs by using solar and windmills
(small) to generate electricity. Energy generated powers the FSSD WWTP.
• Participates in state programs such as the Calif Dept. of General Services government
rate purchasing program. FSSD staff reviews these rates and compares them to the
general marketplace and selects the lowest cost alternative (example, vehicle
purchasing).
• Purchases natural gas through a bundled state program.
• Slowed the rate of vehicle purchases. Specifically, most vehicles in the FSSD fleet are
older than 5 years. (Source, FSSD, 2016c)
Avoidance of litigation is another method FSSD uses to reduce costs. During the past ten years,
FSSD has not been subject to legal actions (FSSD, 2016c).
3.6.3 Facilities in Nearby Sanitation Districts
FSSD is geographically isolated from other sanitation districts as shown in Figure 3.19, below.
The nearest sanitation district is the Vallejo Sanitation District located to the west and it is
separated from FSSD by open space. This geographic separation makes it physically difficult to
connect the two systems.
FSSD staff feels that no jurisdictional reorganizations are needed at this time. The current
boundary arrangements work to benefit recipients of FSSD’s services. FSSD does not currently
have an SOI.
Findings & Determinations: Opportunities for Shared Facilities &
Cost Avoidance
24. Due to the geographic location of the District, it is difficult for it to share wastewater
collection, treatment, and disposal facilities with neighboring sanitation districts. It does
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Final Wastewater Services MSR
however align its sewage collection infrastructure with the cities of Fairfield and Suisun
City.
25. FSSD has a solid track record of working cooperatively with its neighboring government
agencies including the Cities of Fairfield and Suisun City, among others.
26. Participation in local watershed associations and integrated regional water management
groups may provide additional opportunities for regional cooperation.
27. It is recommended that FSSD continue to be open to new opportunities to provide
service in a collaborative manner.
3.7: GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
In a municipal service review, LAFCO is required to make a determination about a district’s
government structure and accountability. In California, there are two types of special districts
as defined in GC 56032.5 and 56044:
Dependent districts: Function as subdivisions of another multipurpose local
government. Board members may be ex-officio member of other governing boards such
as city councils or the board of supervisors.
Independent districts: Have their own governing board and are usually elected directly
by voters or are appointed to fixed terms.
The Fairfield Suisun Sewer District is a dependent district formed by special statutes. The City
Councils for Fairfield and Suisun City appoint their five members (each) to serve on the FSSD
Board of Directors; yet the FSSD Board of Directors function and meet independently from the
city councils. Regardless of their governance structure, special districts have many of the same
Figure 3.19: Nearby Districts
governance powers
as other local
government
agencies as defined
by their enabling
legislation and
LAFCo. The
districts can assume
debt, enter into
contracts, and levy
taxes and
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-60
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assessments. However, special districts do not have land use authority. The FSSD Board of
Directors holds public meetings on a regular basis, scheduled for the fourth Monday of each
month at 6 p.m. in the Board Room at 1010 Chadbourne Road, Fairfield, California.
Key performance indicators for the FSSD Board of Directors are listed in Table 3.21, below
Table 3.21: Performance Indicators for FSSD Board
MSR Key Performance Status Notes
Indicators
Contact information, including Available upon request from Should be listed on the
email, is available for all board FSSD staff. Is not available on
“About Us” or “Contact”
members FSSD website.
web page.
Terms of office and next election Available upon request from Is available on City
date are disclosed. FSSD staff. Is not available on
websites at:
FSSD website.
https://www.fairfield.
ca.gov/gov/city_
council/city_
councilmembers/default.as
p and http://www.suisun.
com/government/city-council/
Committee appointments are online. Information not currently The FSSD website should
available on-line be updated to show
committee appointments.
Compensation and benefits are Employee compensation
clearly noted data is on-line at:
http://transparentcalifornia.co
m/agencies/salaries/
Compliance with CA Government Training is conducted by the
Code §53235 (two hours of training cities
in ethics at least once every two
years and written policy on
reimbursements).
Compliance with The CA Political Compliance is managed by the
Reform Act (Government Code cities
§81000, et seq.) (conflict of interest
codes).
Compliance with Government Code Information about Statements
§87203 (disclose their investments, of Economic Interests is
interests in real property and available on City websites
incomes by filing appropriate forms
with the Fair Political Practices
Commission each year).
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FSSD Board members are compensated at a rate of $143.59 per day of service (as of January
2016). Additionally, minor reimbursements for travel to sanitation related conferences are also
provided, consistent with the Board Travel Policy.
Key performance indicators for meeting management are listed below in Table 3.22.
Table 3.22: MSR KPIs for Meeting Management
Performance Indicator Status Notes
Agency posts regular meeting Yes. Available on website at: Link is also provided from
agendas 72 hours in advance and http://www.fssd.com/board- homepage at:
special meeting agendas 24 hours meetings-agenda/ http://www.fssd.com/
in advance on agency website
Meeting minutes and agendas for Yes. Available on website at: Link is also provided from
the current year. http://www.fssd.com/board- homepage at:
meetings-agenda/ http://www.fssd.com/
Archives of meeting minutes and Available on request directly to Agendas/minutes only for the
agendas for three years. FSSD staff. past year are available on
website.
A meeting calendar that discloses Yes, available on website at: Link is also provided from
the time and location of public http://www.fssd.com/public- homepage at:
meetings meetings/ http://www.fssd.com/
Compliance with the Brown Act Yes Based on information presented
(CA Government Code 54950 et in this MSR, FSSD does comply
sec) with the Brown Act.
All meetings are open to the public, in accordance with the Brown Act (Government Code §§
54950-54926). Additionally, the agenda for each Board meeting includes a public comment
period. Agendas are distributed via the Agency’s website, fax, email, and postal mail. The
media is notified via e-mail. The Daily Republic, a local newspaper, also publishes meeting
notices. The District’s website (http://www.fssd.com/) is a communication vehicle for District
meeting agendas, meeting minutes, and information on the District’s services and programs.
The District’ legal counsel is present at Board meetings to ensure compliance with the Brown
Act and other applicable laws. The Cities of Fairfield and Suisun City monitor the adherence of
their council members to the requirements of the Brown Act, the Political Reform Act, and
similar laws.
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Customer Service:
FSSD has a formal complaint process that allows customers to share their comments or
complaints regarding the FSSD’s wastewater services via a Customer Service Request Form (a
web form) on the FSSD website’s contact page at: http://www.fssd.com/contact/. Additionally,
customers can telephone district staff directly at (707) 429-8930. FSSD does receive the typical
type of complaints associated with sanitation districts, such as sewer backups, odors, etc and
staff investigates each one. FSSD’s investigations have determined the complainant issues are
not caused by FSSD or associated with FSSD facilities. They are usually caused by the local city
sewer line.
3.7.1. Management Efficiencies
The District’s General Manager reports to the Board of Directors. (Solano LAFCO, 2006). The
General Manager represents the District locally, regionally, and at the state and federal levels
and ensures the best interests of the Agency are met. The General Manager also:
Serves as the chief executive officer of the district
Represents the board’s policies and programs
Prepares and administer the budget
Responsible for organizing staffing at all levels
CONTACT INFORMATION:
within the adopted budget and as such is
Gregory G. Baatrup,
responsible for plant operation and maintenance;
General Manager
finance and planning; engineering; construction
design and management; and regulatory
1010 Chadbourne Rd.,
compliance
Fairfield, Ca 94534
There are 60 employees (FTE) of the District. An
gbaatrup @ fssd.com
additional 4.5 positions remain vacant. Figure 3.20,
Organization Chart, below.
Strategic Plans & Management Plans
The District has an overall planning strategy including vision, mission, purpose, and core
values as outlined on its website at: https://www.fssd.com/district-purpose-vision-mission-core-
values/. FSSD’s vision is to be “a recognized leader in our industry”. Its mission is “We achieve
our purpose by excelling individually and organizationally.” The District describes is purpose
to: “protect public health and the environment for the communities we serve in an efficient,
responsible and sustainable manner.” Ideally, all Districts in Solano County would have an
updated strategic plan or master plan that links together goals, objectives, actions, and best
management practices.
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-63
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Figure 3.20: FSSD Organizational Chart
Board of Directors
(10)
District Clerk General Manager District Counsel
Finance and Operation and Engineering and
Regulatory (4.5) Safety (1)
Administration (5) Maintenance (40.5) Construction (1)
Data Source: Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, For the Year Ended June 30, 2015
District Counsel serves via contract.
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A quality assurance or adaptive management plan that shows how activities and actions
undertaken contribute to learning and progress which then leads to an adjustment in objectives
and best management plans would also be helpful. FSSD has taken positive steps in this
direction through its provision of vision, mission, and purpose on its website. It is
recommended that FSSD use its website to provide a link to an actual strategic plan, which
shows the date approved by the District Board.
FSSD has a Fairfield-Suisun Urban Runoff Management Program with an Integrated
Monitoring Report that was prepared in March 2014. Additionally FSSD has a 2013 Sewer
System Management Plan. Sewer System Management Plans were completed in 1986, 1994, and
2002, 2008, and most recently in 2013. The Sewer System Management Plan is sometimes
referred to as a “Master” Plan. .The District’s collection system Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
is based on the Sewer System Management Plan.
Awards
FSSD is nationally recognized for its leadership and innovation. FSSD has received many
awards from the following organizations:
California Association of Sanitation Agencies:
California Water Environment Association:
National Association of Clean Water Agencies:
California Water Environment Association (CWEA)—Sacramento Area Section:
California Water Environment Association (CWEA)—Redwood Empire Section:
California Sanitation Risk Management Authority (CSRMA):
Special recognition of Excellence in Financial Reporting, from GFOA, for eighteen
consecutive fiscal years—June 1998 through June 2015
Recently, FSSD received a notable award called the “Utility of Future Award”. The National
Association of Clean Water Agencies, the Water Environment Federation, the Water
Environment Research Foundation and WateReuse, with support from the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, established a Utility of the Future program in 2016. FSSD received this
award during the 2016 annual Water Environment Federation conference.
Details about the awards and recognition the District has received are available on the FSSD
website at: https://www.fssd.com/awards-achievements/.
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Findings & Determinations: Accountability for Community
Service Needs
28. The governance structure of FSSD is that of a dependent district such that the City
Councils for Fairfield and Suisun City appoint their five members (each) to serve on the
FSSD Board of Directors. Yet the FSSD Board of Directors does function and meet
independently from the city councils.
29. The FSSD Board of Directors holds public meetings on a regular basis, scheduled for the
fourth Monday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Board Room at 1010 Chadbourne Road,
Fairfield, California.
30. FSSD Board meetings are noticed according to the Brown Act and the meetings provide
an opportunity for public comment.
31. A key performance indicator suggests that archives of meeting minutes and agendas for
three years should be available on a district’s website. However, agendas/minutes only
for the past year are available on the FSSD website. The archives for the two prior years
are available upon request directly to FSSD staff. FSSD recently updated its website and
is in the process of posting an archive of past meeting minutes and agendas.
32. The FSSD Board of Directors and staff have demonstrated that they understand the
needs of their customers and they aim to improve the efficiency of the public services
they offer. The core competencies of staff are aligned with customer needs.
33. Ideally, all Districts in Solano County would have an updated strategic plan or master
plan that links together goals, objectives, actions, and best management practices. A
quality assurance or adaptive management plan that shows how activities and actions
undertaken contribute to learning and progress which then leads to an adjustment in
objectives and best management plans would also be helpful. FSSD has taken positive
steps in this direction through its provision of vision, mission, and purpose on its
website. It is recommended that FSSD use its website to provide a link to an actual
strategic plan, which shows the date approved by the District Board.
3.8: LAFCO POLICIES AFFECTING SERVICE DELIVERY
Cortese-Knox Hertzberg allows LAFCOs to establish policies to implement the law and process
applications. Solano LAFCO has implemented eleven standards, six mandatory standards
which mirror the requirements of CKH, and five discretionary standards. Application of
discretionary standards lies with the Commission. There are no other aspects of wastewater and
storm drainage service required to be addressed in this report by LAFCO policies that would
affect delivery of services.
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Determination: Any Other Matters Related to Service Delivery as
Required by LAFCO Policy
34. There are no other aspects of wastewater or storm drainage service required to be
addressed in this report by LAFCO policies that would affect delivery of services.
3.9: SUMMARY OF MSR FINDINGS & DETERMINATIONS
Based on the information included in this report, the following written determinations make
statements involving the service factors the Commission must consider as part of a municipal
service review14. The Commission’s final MSR determinations will be part of a Resolution
which the Commission formally adopts during a public meeting.
Growth and Population Projections
1. The Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District (FSSD) provides wastewater, water recycling, and
storm water management services to approximately 140,400 residents, plus business and
government facilities in central Solano County.
2. FSSD’s enabling legislation defines its service area. The District’s boundaries can
expand through city annexation and District boundaries cannot otherwise expand
without an action of the State Legislature. FSSD’s 44 square mile service area includes
the City of Fairfield, Suisun City, Travis Air Force Base, the unincorporated area of
Cordelia, and parts of Suisun Valley.
3. Between the years 2010 to 2040, an additional 46,768 persons are expected to reside
within FSSD’s boundaries. This represents an overall 35 percent increase in projected
future population at an average annual (compound) growth rate of 1 percent.
4. Though the population and land area for the City of Fairfield has slightly increased from
2010 to 2015, the population per square mile has decreased. This suggests that the City
has enough land to accommodate the population growth in 2015 over what was
available in 2010.
14 The service factors addressed in this report reflect the requirements of California Government Code §56430(a)
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Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities
5. The According to the U.S. Census, the median household income (MHI) for the State
was $61,933 in 2014 (US Census, ACS, 2010-2014). This yields a DUC threshold MHI of
less than $49,546 (80 percent of the statewide MHI). As of 2014 the median household
income (MHI) in the City of Fairfield was estimated to be $81,011. This is significantly
higher than the DUC threshold MHI. The median household income (MHI) in the City
of Suisun city was estimated to be $71,306. This is significantly higher than the DUC
threshold MHI.
6. Nine unincorporated islands have been identified within the FSSD boundary area as
listed in Table 3.7. The MHI for each unincorporated island is listed in Table 3.9 and it
shows that Area #5 known as Woolner-Hamilton has a MHI of $24,858, which meets the
financial threshold to be classified as a DUC. The Woolner Hamilton area does,
however, receive adequate water, wastewater (small septic systems), and fire protection
services, as listed in Table 3-7. No public health and safety issues have been identified.
7. The FSSD is legislatively limited to which areas they can serve and therefore may not be
able to provide services to the unincorporated islands.
Present and Planned Capacity of Public Facilities
8. FSSD collects wastewater from approximately 54,000 sewer connections that serve
140,400 residents in Fairfield and Suisun City. One FSSD connection can potentially
serve many individual customers. For example, Travis AFB is “one” connection. Most
residential customers connect to the City-owned collection lines for sewer, not FSSD.
9. The facilities and infrastructure on which FSSD depends have variable ages. FSSD
replaces and repairs infrastructure on a regular basis. FSSD has implemented collection
system BMPs and addresses preventative maintenance and scheduled replacement of
aging infrastructure.
10. FSSD owns and operates its wastewater collection system which connects to its WWTP.
The FSSD system functions with the satellite collection systems owned and operated by
the Cities of Fairfield and Suisun City and Travis Air Force Base. Each entity has
adopted a Sewer System Management Plan.
11. FSSD’s recent capacity upgrades (such as the Suisun Pump Station upgrades)
demonstrate its continued investment in the system.
12. Actual flow is significantly less than design capacity, hence the WWTP has adequate
capacity to accommodate existing customers.
13. FSSD has fewer sanitary sewer overflows as compared to similar sewer districts in the
San Francisco Bay region as shown in Table 3.13. This demonstrates FSSD’s successful
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and on-going attention to the prevention of blockages, inflows, and malfunctions and
this results in safeguarding human and environmental health.
14. FSSD has contracted with private company (Lystek) to develop innovative methods and
beneficial uses for biosolids that result from the WWTP.
15. Generally, new development occurring within the District could result in an increase in
the demand for sewer services and the need for additional infrastructure. For example,
the implementation of the City of Fairfield Train Station Specific Plan could result in
additional wastewater flows to the WWTP that were not previously accounted for and
additional improvements to District owned facilities may be needed.
16. Similar to other sanitation districts, FSSD faces challenges regarding the provision public
of services including sewage collection, treatment, disposal, water recycling, and storm
drainage management. Challenges include addressing anticipated future regulations
dealing with nutrient discharges, and supporting the restoration of Suisun Marsh with
the implementation of Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL). The challenges faced by
FSSD are indicative of an agency that functions in a multi-jurisdictional environment
and this contributes to the complexity of situations that FSSD faces.
17. FSSD’s innovative use of renewable energy to offset the electricity cost associated with
wastewater treatment demonstrates that it has already implemented several
management practices which highlights the ongoing work at the local level to save
energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is recommended that FSSD continue to
implement best management practices aligned with sustainability aims.
Financial Ability of Agency to Provide Services
18. FSSD is an enterprise district.
19. FSSD has one budget policy which it describes in its annual budget as the 2005 policy on
Major Maintenance/Replacement Reserve, where an average 1% of plant replacement
cost over a 10-year period is reserved. These contributions help the District accumulate
sufficient reserves for infrastructure maintenance and replacement (FSSD Budget, 2015).
FSSD does not appear to have an adopted management and budget policy which
addresses budget preparation, fixed asset accounting, investment of funds, and expense
authorization. It is recommended that prior to preparation of the next MSR, FSSD
should adopt a policy which addresses budget preparation, fixed asset accounting,
investment of funds, and expense authorization and share this policy with LAFCO.
20. The Budget and Long Term Financial Plan are adopted in public meetings on a biennial
basis.
21. FSSD receives an audited financial statement on an annual basis.
22. In FY 14/15, total annual revenue was $28 million and total annual expense was almost
$24 million. FSSD’s biennial budget contains a Long-Term Financial Plan and Schedule
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6 shows that revenues are expected to exceed expenses through the year 2025. Reserves
will be maintained with positive balances through the year 2025. This data suggests that
FSSD has the financial ability to continue to provide public services into the future.
23. FSSD’s long-term financial plan is used is in conjunction with the District’s Master Plan
to facilitate build-up of reserve funds for use on major expansion projects without
accumulating a high debt load.
Opportunities for Shared Facilities
24. Due to the geographic location of the District, it is difficult for it to share wastewater
collection, treatment, and disposal facilities with neighboring sanitation districts. It does
however align its sewage collection infrastructure with the cities of Fairfield and Suisun
City.
25. FSSD has a solid track record of working cooperatively with its neighboring government
agencies including the Cities of Fairfield and Suisun City, among others.
26. Participation in local watershed associations and integrated regional water management
groups may provide additional opportunities for regional cooperation.
27. It is recommended that FSSD continue to be open to new opportunities to provide
service in a collaborative manner.
Accountability for Community Service Needs
28. The governance structure of FSSD is that of a dependent district such that the City
Councils for Fairfield and Suisun City appoint their five members (each) to serve on the
FSSD Board of Directors. Yet the FSSD Board of Directors does function and meet
independently from the city councils.
29. The FSSD Board of Directors holds public meetings on a regular basis, scheduled for the
fourth Monday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Board Room at 1010 Chadbourne Road,
Fairfield, California.
30. FSSD Board meetings are noticed according to the Brown Act and the meetings provide
an opportunity for public comment.
31. A key performance indicator suggests that archives of meeting minutes and agendas for
three years should be available on a district’s website. However, agendas/minutes only
for the past year are available on the FSSD website. The archives for the two prior years
are available upon request directly to FSSD staff. FSSD recently updated its website and
is in the process of posting an archive of past meeting minutes and agendas.
32. The FSSD Board of Directors and staff have demonstrated that they understand the
needs of their customers and they aim to improve the efficiency of the public services
they offer. The core competencies of staff are aligned with customer needs.
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33. Ideally, all Districts in Solano County would have an updated strategic plan or master
plan that links together goals, objectives, actions, and best management practices. A
quality assurance or adaptive management plan that shows how activities and actions
undertaken contribute to learning and progress which then leads to an adjustment in
objectives and best management plans would also be helpful. FSSD has taken positive
steps in this direction through its provision of vision, mission, and purpose on its
website. It is recommended that FSSD use its website to provide a link to an actual
strategic plan, which shows the date approved by the District Board.
Any Other Matters Related to Service Delivery as Required by
LAFCO Policy
34. There are no other aspects of wastewater or storm drainage service required to be
addressed in this report by LAFCO policies that would affect delivery of services.
3.10: ISSUES WITH RECOMMENDATIONS
This MSR describes the provision of wastewater and storm drainage services by FSSD to its
constituents. No red flags were found during this analysis. However, several areas for
continual improvement were noted and listed in the above determinations with a * (asterisk)
symbol. They are also repeated below in Table 3.23.
Table 3.23: Issues with Recommendations
Determination Issue Recommendation
#
17 FSSD innovative use of renewable It is recommended that FSSD continue to
energy to offset the electricity cost implement best management practices aligned
associated with wastewater with sustainability aims.
treatment demonstrates that it
has already implemented several
of the management practices
which highlights the ongoing
work at the local level to save
energy and reduce greenhouse
gas emissions.
19 FSSD does not appear to have It is recommended that prior to preparation
an adopted management and of the next MSR, FSSD should adopt a policy
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budget policy which addresses which addresses budget preparation, fixed
budget preparation, fixed asset asset accounting, investment of funds, and
accounting, investment of expense authorization and share this policy
funds, and expense with LAFCO.
authorization.
26 Due to the geographic isolation, it Participation in local watershed associations and
is difficult for FSSD to share integrated regional water management groups
infrastructure with neighboring may provide additional opportunities for
sanitation districts. regional cooperation.
27 FSSD has a solid track record of *It is recommended that FSSD continue to be
working cooperatively with its open to new opportunities to provide service in a
neighboring government collaborative manner.
agencies.
33 FSSD’s Master Plan was last Ideally, all Districts in Solano County would
updated in 2008. have an updated strategic plan or master plan
that links together goals, objectives, actions, and
best management practices. A quality assurance
or adaptive management plan that shows how
activities and actions undertaken contribute to
learning and progress which then leads to an
adjustment in objectives and best management
plans would also be helpful. FSSD has taken
positive steps in this direction through its
provision of vision, mission, and purpose on its
website. It is recommended that FSSD use its
website to provide a link to an actual strategic
plan, which shows the date approved by the
District Board.
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3.11: REFERENCES
Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), Metropolitan Transportation Commission
(MTC). Plan Bay Area 2040. San Francisco, Ca. Retrieved from:
<http://planbayarea.org/plan-bay-area.html>. Accessed on July 27, 2016.
Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), Metropolitan Transportation Commission
(MTC). Appendix A Detailed Methodology. Draft Plan Bay Area Equity Analysis. Part
of Plan Bay Area 2040. 64-pages. San Francisco, Ca. Retrieved from:
<http://planbayarea.org/plan-bay-area/plan-elements/equity-analysis.html>. Accessed on
August 1, 2016.
Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), Metropolitan Transportation Commission
(MTC). Plan Bay Area. Priority Development Area Showcase. San Francisco, Ca.
Retrieved from: <http://gis.abag.ca.gov/website/PDAShowcase/ >. Accessed July 28, 2016.
Baatrup, Gregory; Herston, Meg; Sortor, Taylon. (Baatrup, et. al.) June 20, 2016, Kick-off
meeting with Harrison and McIntyre. Fairfield, Ca.
California Department of Finance. New State Population Report, 2015. Sacramento, CA.
Retrieved from: <http://www.dof.ca.gov/Forecasting/Demographics/Estimates/e-
1/documents/E-1_2016PressRelease.pdf>. Accessed on July 26, 2016.
California Department of Water Resources. Disadvantaged Communities Mapping Tool.
Retrieved from: <https://gis.water.ca.gov/app/dacs/>. Accessed July 28, 2016.
California Research Bureau (CRB). California State Library. August 2007. Biosolids, Options
for Biosolids Management. 101 pages. Sacramento, Ca. Available on-line at:
http://www.library.ca.gov/crb/07/07-007.pdf
Chavan & Associates, LLP. Certified Public Accountants. Independent Auditor’s Report and
the Independent Auditor’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and on
Compliance and Other Matters Based on an Audit of Financial Statements Performed in
Accordance With Government Auditing Standards. September 29, 2015. San Jose,
California. 48-pages.
City of Fairfield. December 2010. Draft Environmental Impact Report. Fairfield Train Station
Specific Plan. State Clearinghouse # 2010042093. Available on-line:
<https://www.fairfield.ca.gov/gov/depts/cd/planning/train_station_deir.asp>. Accessed on July
26, 2016.
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-74
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City of Fairfield, CA. 2002 City of Fairfield General Plan Update. Retrieved from:
<http://www.fairfield.ca.gov>. Accessed on July 26, 2016.
City of Fairfield, California. Heart of Fairfield Plan, Profile Report. 2015. Retrieved from:
<http://www.heartoffairfield.com/app_pages/view/62>. Accessed on July 29, 2016.
City of Fairfield, California. Fairfield Train Station Specific Plan, 2011. Retrieved from:
<http://www.heartoffairfield.com/app_pages/view/62>. Accessed July 28, 2016.
City of Fairfield, December 2010. Fairfield Train Station Specific Plan Draft Environmental
Impact Report. . State Clearinghouse # 2010042093. Prepared by AECOM. Retrieved
from <https://www.fairfield.ca.gov/gov/depts/cd/planning/train.asp>. Accessed Aug 14, 2016.
City of Fairfield Department of Community Development. City of Fairfield 2012 Municipal Service
Review Update. Approved 15 October 2012. Retrieved from:
<http://www.solanolafco.com/Studies/MSR/Cities/Fairfield%20MSR%20Update%202012%20F
inal.pdf>. Accessed July 25, 2016.
City of Suisun City, California. 2015-2023 Housing Element. PMC, Rancho Cordova. Retrieved
from <http://www.suisun.com/wp-content/files/Suisun_City_Housing_Element _Final_
Draft.pdf>. Accessed on July 29, 2016.
City of Suisun City, Community Development Department. City of Suisun City 2035 General
Plan. Retrieved from: <http://www.suisun.com/?s=General+Plan>. Accessed on July 29,
2016.
Eberling, Barry. 26October2012. “Large Annexation Gives Fairfield New Growth Frontier.”
Daily Republic. Retrieved from: <http://www.dailyrepublic.com/news /fairfield/large-
annexation-gives-fairfield-new-growth-frontier/>. Accessed July 28, 2016.
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District (FSSD). March 14, 2016-a. Recycled Water Program Annual
Report. January 1, 2015 – December 31, 2015. 19 pages. Fairfield, Ca.
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District (FSSD). 2016-b. Response to LAFCO’s Request for Information.
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District (FSSD). June 20, 2016-c. Personal communication Gregory
Baatrup, Meg Herston, Taylon Sortor.
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District (FSSD). September 29, 2015. Comprehensive Annual Financial
Report, For the Year Ended June 30, 2015. 92-pages. Fairfield, Ca.
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District (FSSD). March 23, 2015. Budget and Long-Term Financial Plan,
Fiscal Years 15/16 and 16/17. 29 pages. Fairfield, Ca.
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Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District (FSSD). 2013. Sewer System Management Plan. 158 pages.
San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (SFRWQCB). March 11, 2015. Order
No. R2-2015-0013. NPDES No. CA0038024. 144-pages. Oakland, CA.
Solano County Airport Land Use Commission (SCALUC). June 13, 2002.Travis Air Force Base
Land Use Compatibility Plan. Prepared by Shutt Moen Associates in Association with
Harris Miller Miller & Hanson, Inc. Available on-line at:
<http://www.co.solano.ca.us/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?blobid=3929>. Accessed August
14, 2016.
Solano County Resource Management Department. December 1, 2010. Middle Valley Specific
Plan. Prepared in conjunction with the Hart Howerton Consulting Team. 293 pages.
Available on-line at: <https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/rm/planning/middle_green
_valley_specific_plan.asp>. Accessed 3February 2017.
Solano County Resource Management Department. June 2016. Middle Green Valley Specific
Plan Second Revised Recirculated Draft Environmental Impact Report. 90-pages plus
Appendices A, B, and C. Available on-line at: <https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/rm/
planning/middle_green_valley_specific_plan.asp>. Accessed 3February 2017.
Solano County Resource Management Department. October 2016. Middle Green Valley Specific
Plan Responses to Comments on and Revisions to the Second Revised Recirculated Draft
Environmental Impact Report. 78 pages. Available on-line at:
<https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/rm/planning/middle_green_valley_specific_plan.asp>.
Accessed 3February 2017.
Solano County Department of Resource Management. December 2014. Draft Environmental
Impact Report Woodcreek 66. Authored by AECOM Consultants. 382 pages.
Available on-line at: <https://www.solanocounty.com
/depts/rm/documents/eir/woodcreek_66.asp>. Accessed 3February 2017.
Solano Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). November 2006. Sewer Municipal
Service Review. Prepared by PMC. 49 pages. Retrieved from:
<http://www.solanolafco.com/studies.htm>. Accessed July 28, 2016.
Solano Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). October 15, 2012. Municipal Service
Review Update, City of Fairfield. Prepared by: City of Fairfield Department of
Community Development. 57 pages. Retrieved from: <http://www.solanolafco.com/>.
Accessed July 28, 2016.
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Solano Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). June 13, 2016. City of Suisun City 2016
Municipal Service Review Update. 74-pages. Available on-line at: <
http://www.solanolafco.com/Studies/ MSR/Cities/Suisun%20City%20Final%20MSR.pdf>.
Accessed on July 26, 2016.
Travis Air Force Base (TAFB). December 2008. Travis Air Force Base Facilities Excellence
Guide. Prepared by Tran Systems Consultants. 41-pages. Available on-line at:
<https://www.wbdg.org/ccb/AF/AFDG/travis_feg.pdf>. Accessed August 14, 2016.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 2005. Sacramento District History (1929-2004). Written by Dr.
Willie Collins along with Assay, Davy, Doyle, Fanselau, Farris, Fast, Gonzalez,
Hagwood, Hays, Layton, Nevins, Stalker, Stevenson, Taylor, VanDam, Weddell,
Whitney and Whitney. 262 pages. Retrieved from:
<http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a436393.pdf>. Accessed Aug 14, 2016.
US Census Bureau, Median Income in the past 12 Months (In 2014 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars)
by Census Tract: California, 2010-2014 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.
Retrieved from: <http://factfinder.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/
productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_14_5YR_S1903&prodType=table>. Accessed July 28, 2016.
U.S. Census Bureau Geographic Boundary Change, Fairfield City, CA, 2015. Retrieved from:
<http://factfinder.census.gov/faces/affhelp/jsf/pages/geography.xhtml?lang=en&code=160&name=
Fairfield%20city,%20California&src=geoAssist&log=t>. Accessed July 28, 2016.
U.S. Census Bureau Geographic Boundary Change, Suisun City, CA, 2015. Retrieved from:
<http://factfinder.census.gov/faces/affhelp/jsf/pages/geography.xhtml?lang=en&code=160&name=
Suisun%20city,%20California&src=geoAssist&log=t>. Accessed July 26, 2016.
U.S. Census Bureau 2010 Census Reference Map: Solano County, CA. Retrieved from:
<http://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/dc10map/tract/st06_ca/c06095_solano>. Accessed July 25,
2016.
U.S. Census Bureau. 2010-2014 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.” American
Factfinder. U.S. Department of Commerce. Available on-line at:
<http://factfinder.census.gov /faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?src =bkmk>.
Accessed July 28, 2016.
US. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9 (EPA) and San Francisco Bay Regional Water
Quality Control Board (SFRWQCB). January 25, 2013. Best Management Practice
Recommendations Suisun Marsh TMDL Development. Prepared by Dan Gillenwater,
Stuart Siegel, Jeff Schlueter, Phil Bachand, Karen Summers, and Sujoy Roy. San
Francisco, CA. 44-pages. Retrieved from: <http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb2/water_
Fairfield Suisun Sewer District 3-77
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issues/programs/TMDLs/suisunmarsh/Suisun%20Marsh%20TMDL%20BMP%20
Recommendations.pdf>. Accessed on August 1, 2016.
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CHAPTER 4: VALLEJO SANITATION &
FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT
4.1 DISTRICT PROFILE INCLUDING BOUNDARY MAP
Services and Location
Type and Extent of Services
Since its formation in 1952, the Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District (VSFCD) has been
responsible for collecting and treating the wastewater generated by the residents and businesses
of the City of Vallejo and the surrounding areas and providing storm water drainage to protect
the Vallejo community from flooding (Solano LAFCo, 2006).
Location and Size
VSFCD is located in the southern-most portion of Solano County along the northeast interior of
the San Pablo Bay. The City of American Canyon and unincorporated Napa County lie north of
the District. The City of Benicia lies to the southeast and the City of Fairfield lies to the
northeast. The Vallejo community is centrally located near several significant regional
destinations including: Napa Valley (15 miles), San Francisco (30 miles), and Sacramento (60
miles). Vallejo is home to the Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Touro University, California
Maritime Academy, and various festivals at the Vallejo Waterfront.
The District serves an area slightly larger than the City of Vallejo, including all the area within
the City limits. It is important to note that although the City contains islands of unincorporated
areas within its boundaries, VSFCD’s jurisdictional boundaries include those areas. VSFCD’s
net overall service area covers thirty-eight and one-half square miles or 24,637 acres (VSFCD
Finance Department, 2016). The District’s boundary is coterminous with its sphere of influence.
Table 4.1: VSFCD Geographic Summary
District Boundary 24,637 38.5 sq. mi.
District Sphere 24,637acres 38.5 sq. mi.
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Formation and Boundary
The Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District was established April 19, 1952 as a special
district created by the State of California (Act 8934) to provide wastewater and flood control
services to the City of Vallejo and the surrounding community (Solano LAFCo, 2006).
Boundary History
The District’s charter and enabling legislation indicate the appropriateness of matching its
boundaries with the City. The District filed a formation map and a tax area code change with
the California Board of Equalization in March 1953. A summary of boundary related LAFCO
actions for this District is listed in Table 4.2, below.
Table 4.2 Summary of Boundary Related LAFCo Actions
Year Action LAFCo Resolution Number
1967 Allowed annexation of 34.7 acres for St. 1-6-67
Patrick’s High School
1973 Allowed annexation of 84.9 acres for 2-5-73
Carlsberg Mobile Home Properties
1979 Allowed annexation of 127.9 acres for 1811 and see also 1819
Morrison Homes Glen Cove Unit #3
1983 Allowed annexation of 593.6 acres for Glen 3079
Cove Unit #4
1987 Allowed annexation of 11.2 acres for 87-4128
Meadowood Subdivision by the Housing
Group
1987 Allowed annexation of 8 acres for the 88-4170 and see also 88-24
California Highway Patrol Property
1988 Allowed annexation of 2,320.94 acres for Sky 88-4 (also referred to as 88-
Valley Company 4141) and 88-5
1988 Added 12 acres to the SOI for the Sky Valley Not available
Company
2003 Allowed annexation of 2,239.87 acres for the 2003-4845
Mare Island Naval Shipyard
Data Source: LAFCO files provided by Michelle McIntyre, Oct 2016
Currently, the boundaries of the District generally follow the City’s boundaries; however the
boundaries of the two agencies are not coterminous. The District serves an area slightly larger
than the City limits, encompassing some surrounding unincorporated areas of Solano County
(Figure 4-1) (Solano LAFCO, 2006). Additionally, the City contains a number of unincorporated
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-2
Final Wastewater Services MSR
islands within its boundaries that are served by and located within the jurisdictional boundaries
of the District.
All annexations into the City of Vallejo require concurrent annexation into the Vallejo Sanitation
and Flood Control District. LAFCO approved the annexation of Mare Island to the District on
September 8, 2003 per Resolution No. 03-09.
The District’s boundary and SOI includes 4,666 acres of water or submerged lands that are part
of the San Francisco Estuary/San Pablo Bay, as shown in Figure 4.1. This parcel (APN 0067-010-
010) was included the District’s original 1952 boundary and was identified in the District’s
original 1953 submittal to the CA Board of Equalization. The District does not provide service
to this parcel. Therefore, it is recommended that LAFCO consider detaching the parcel from the
District boundary and SOI.
Other than the submerged parcel, the District noted its satisfaction with the existing boundary
and SOI arrangement and does not anticipate any foreseeable expansion of the District (Morton,
2016).
Sphere of Influence
The District’s Sphere of Influence (SOI) is coterminous with its boundaries (Solano LAFCo,
2006). It is recommended that LAFCO consider detaching APN 0067-010-010 from the District’s
boundary and SOI.
Extra-territorial Services
The District does not provide any extra-territorial services and does not have any pending will-
serve agreements (Morton, 2016).
Areas of Interest
There are no un-served or underserved areas of urban density in the surrounding area which
the District could feasibly include as part of its service provision (Solano LAFCo, 2006). There
are a few unincorporated areas located outside the City of Vallejo boundaries that may have a
Vallejo mailing address and may share certain services with the city residents.
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-3
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Department of Information Technology, GIS Services
Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District DSolaenop Caournttym GIeS Snertv icoesf Information Technology D Th is is c l m ai a m p e r w : as made using Solano County GIS files with varying degrees of 5
675 Texas Street, Suite 3700 scale, accuracy, precision, currentness, and alignment and therefore cannot
and City of Vallejo Boundaries 2016 Fairfield, CA 94533 be used for situations requiring survey grade measurement or legal
Phone: 707-784-6340 boundary determination. Solano County disclaims liability for any
Email: GISStaff@SolanoCounty.com loss that may result from the use of this map. User acknowledges
Solano County PRJ_1459, 08/02/2016 data limitations and accepts responsibility for map based judgments.
Document Name: LafcoGVSFCD2016
Final Wastewater Services MSR
The District purchased Tubbs Island in Sonoma County in 1983 and it continues to own and
operate the site to spread biosolids (sludge) for agricultural use. The District does not provide
services in Sonoma County. Issues related to jurisdictional boundaries on Tubbs Island are
overseen by Sonoma LAFCO and a related resolution and map of Tubbs Island are available in
LAFCO files. The District has not identified any other areas of interest that require District
services within the foreseeable future.
4.2 GROWTH AND POPULATION
Existing Population
This section provides information on the existing population and future growth projections for
the VSFCD. Since census data is readily available for the City of Vallejo, it is used as the
foundation for VSFCD in this section. As of January 1, 2016, the population in City of Vallejo is
estimated by the California Department of Finance at 117,322 persons. Between census years
2000 to 2010, the City’s population decreased by 682 people, which equates to a negative annual
growth rate of -0.58% per the City’s Housing Element. However, the population has increased
in recent years, and now represents an increase of 1.01% percent between the 2010 U.S. Census
and today. VSFCD currently has a land area of 38.5 square miles, which includes the Mare
Island Naval Complex, located in Census Tract 2508 in Solano County. The average population
concentration is 3,047 persons per square mile (Table 4.3) and the population density has
declined over the past ten years. Vallejo has the largest population of any of the cities in Solano
County. Please note that the City of Vallejo’s population does not exactly correspond to the
population of VSFCD and the current population within the District is estimated to be 124,134
(Morton, 2016).
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-5
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Table 4.3: Historic and Existing Population
Year Total Vallejo Population District Land area (sq. Population per sq.
miles) mile
2006 115,298 28 4117.8
2010 115,942 36 3221
2016 117,322 38.5 3047.3
Data Source: California Department of Finance (2016)
According to the 2010 census, Vallejo has 40,559 total households with an average of 2.89
persons per household and an average family size of 3.36 persons per family. The median age is
37.9 as of the 2010 U.S. Census. The population is ethnically and culturally diverse with a
population composed of 32.8% white, 24.9% African American, 28.3% Asian, 13.1% Hispanic,
2.1% American Indian, and 2.1% Pacific Islander (U.S. Census Bureau, 2010). The residents are
well educated, with an estimated 24% having college or graduate degrees, and another 36%
having attended college or receiving associate degrees. An economic forecast for Solano
County is provided in Appendix A-4.
The population of VSFCD (124,134) is estimated to be slightly higher than that of the City
because VSFCD serves unincorporated islands, making its service area slightly larger than that
of the City.
Projected Growth and Development
To some extent, population growth in the City is dependent upon land use, general plan
designations, and zoning on properties. According to the City’s 2005 Municipal Service
Review, the 2020 build out population is 143,650. The City projects that within the next five
years the population could grow by another 1.2%. This build out includes the development of
the recently annexed Mare Island, the former Navy Shipyard facility, and other undeveloped
parcels within the City and Sphere of Influence.
The General Plan for the City of Vallejo was adopted in July 1999. A new Housing Element was
recently adopted May 25, 2015. The City’s General Plan is based upon nine goals and objectives:
Land Use, Circulation and Transportation, Housing, Educational Facilities, Public Facilities and
Other Services, Safety, Noise, Air Quality, and Natural Resources (City of Vallejo, 1999).
Currently, a three-year effort (commenced January 2014) to comprehensively update the City’s
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-6
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General Plan, the Citywide Zoning Code, and create a Sonoma Boulevard Specific Plan is
underway. The project is titled “Propel Vallejo - General Plan Update”, and describes four
guiding principles of the project as: Community and People; Nature and the Built Environment;
Economy, Education and Training; and Mobility, Transportation, and Connectivity (City of
Vallejo, 2014).
The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) publishes population, household, job, labor
force, and income projections for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Region. ABAG’s
Projections 2013 includes a range of growth-related estimates for Vallejo through 2040. ABAG
projections for Vallejo relating to population, and jobs are listed in Table 4.4 below. Please note
that projecting future population growth for a small City is problematic due to a variety of
unknown factors associated with the annexation rate.
Table 4.4 Population Projections for Vallejo
As shown in Table 4.4, ABAG predictions suggest that future growth in Vallejo may not keep
pace with the rest of Solano County. For the growth period from 2015-2040 ABAG predicts
13,700 new residents in Vallejo, which is only an 11.6 percent increase against a 23 percent
expected growth in the remaining Solano County. Even though Vallejo is home to about 28
percent of Solano County’s population, ABAG projects only 16 percent of the County’s new
residential growth will be from the City of Vallejo. Since the City of Fairfield has agreed to be
responsible for a significant portion of the RHNA allocation, most of the growth in Solano
County is projected to occur in Fairfield.
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-7
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For further considerations on the projected growth and development for the City of Vallejo, the
2015 -2023 Housing Element Update, adopted May 2015, provides a detailed description of the
socio-economic factors with the City, including age distribution, racial distribution,
employment, and economic development. The 2015 – 2023 Housing Element is available on-line
at the City’s website, http://www.cityofvallejo.net/common/pages/DisplayFile.aspx?itemId=3309812.
4.3: PRESENT AND PLANNED LAND USES
General Plan, Zoning, and Policies
The District boundary primarily covers land located within the City limits of Vallejo and
therefore is mostly under the land use authority of the City of Vallejo. A small portion of the
District boundary also encompasses unincorporated areas which are under the land use
authority of Solano County. The City of Vallejo’s 1999 General Plan establishes land use policies
for the physical development of the City which is supported by the 1980 Zoning Ordinance.
Vallejo is working across many fronts to revitalize and improve the City, including concurrent
efforts focusing on policies, regulations, and procedures. The Propel Vallejo Project is a
revitalization initiative that includes efforts which are currently underway to update the
Guiding Principles for Vallejo, the City’s General Plan and Zoning Ordinance, and create a
Specific Plan for Sonoma Boulevard (City of Vallejo, 2015).
The City’s current General Plan prescribes fourteen land use designations as follows:
Rural Residential
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
General Commercial
Highway Commercial
Waterfront Commercial
Medical Commercial
Employment
Open Space – Agricultural Conservation
Open Space – Urban Reserve
Open Space – Wetlands
Open Space – Community Parks
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-8
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Mineral Resource Area
(City of Vallejo, 1999)
The existing land use structure can be viewed through the City of Vallejo’s “Vallejo Prospector”
GIS mapping website, http://gis.zoomprospector.com/client/Vallejo/. This website provides the
zoning types layered on a map of Vallejo where each of the zoning areas can be viewed.
The City of Vallejo Zoning Ordinance implements the General Plan and provides the
procedures, standards, and regulations for land use decisions. The Zoning Ordinance is within
the Vallejo California Municipal Code, Title 16, and can be visited at:
https://www.municode.com/library/ca/vallejo/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT16ZO. The City’s
current Zoning Ordinance has the following fifteen basic zoning districts organized into three
general use categories:
Four districts for residential areas: Rural, Low Density, Medium Density, and High
Density.
Nine districts for commercial areas: Freeway-Oriented Shopping, Waterfront Shopping
and Service, Professional Office, Limited Office, Pedestrian Shopping, Linear
Commercial, Neighborhood Commercial, Public and Quasi Public Facilities, and
Medical.
Two districts for commercial, industrial and industrially compatible areas: Intensive Use
and Intensive Use-Limited.
(City of Vallejo, 2015)
The City is in the process of updating its Zoning Ordinance to more accurately reflect current
conditions and trends. It is anticipated that the update of the Zoning Ordinance will allow
certain portions of the City where “walkable urbanism” exists or is desired to utilize form-based
zoning. Other portions where “auto-oriented suburbanism” exists or is desired may continue to
be covered by use-based or conventional zoning. Accordingly, the General Plan land use vision
may create a distinction between areas that are within the walkable urban, transect zones, and
those that may be regulated by more auto-oriented suburban policies and regulations. This is
very different from the way the existing General Plan applies land use designations in a broad
and homogenous way (City of Vallejo, 2015).
Mare Island is within the District boundaries and receives services. Mare Island is a former
naval shipyard that was decommissioned and approved for redevelopment in the late 1990s.
The Mare Island Reuse Plan for the 5,000-acre island includes 1,400 residential homes, roughly 7
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-9
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million square feet of commercial and industrial space, and numerous recreational amenities.
An electric car manufacturing facility is currently proposed for the Island; however it is not in
the near-term planning horizon of this document.
Land use on unincorporated parcels, such as the four unincorporated islands or areas within
Vallejo’s SOI, is regulated by the Solano County General Plan, adopted on August 5, 2008.
Regional Transportation Plans & Sustainable Community Strategies
All regions in California must complete a Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) as part of a
Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), consistent with the requirements of state law, Senate Bill
(SB) 375. Senate Bill 375 requires California’s 18 metropolitan areas to integrate transportation,
land-use, and housing as part of an SCS to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from cars and
light-duty trucks. In the San Francisco Bay Area, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission
(MTC) and the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) work together, along with local
governments, to develop a SCS that meets greenhouse gas reduction targets adopted by the
California Air Resources Board. The RTP and SCS for the Bay Area is called “Plan Bay Area:
Strategy for A Sustainable Region” and was adopted on July 18, 2013 (ABAG et al, 2014).
Senate Bill 215 (Wiggins) was approved by California legislature in 2009 and chaptered in 2010
as part of Government Code Section 56668, relating to local government. This bill requires
LAFCOs to consider regional transportation plans and sustainable community strategies
developed pursuant to SB 375 before making boundary decisions.
The City of Vallejo is the local agency primarily responsible for planning regional growth
patterns within the District through adoption and implementation of a General Plan and
Zoning Ordinance. The Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District was established to provide
wastewater and flood control services and does not have the legal authority to make land use
policy decisions that would significantly impact growth in the City of Vallejo. The activities of
the District that are indirectly connected with regional growth are limited to determining which
areas they will provide with wastewater and flood control services.
Future Development Potential
In recent years, growth within the District has been limited to infill and redevelopment projects
within the City of Vallejo and the portion of Solano County within the District boundaries.
There have not been any new major development projects built since the 2006 MSR. However,
the location of VSFCD and the City of Vallejo within the context of the greater Bay Area
presents opportunities for future growth and development. According to the Propel Vallejo
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-10
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General Plan Economic and Market Trends report (2015), Vallejo’s development projects will be
linked to overall demands in the form of housing, industrial and warehouse, retail and
restaurants, and hotels. Further, major catalytic opportunities in the Downtown/Waterfront,
Mare Island Complex, and the Solano 360 projects will be considerable development projects.
Based on growth forecasts, Vallejo will have a market demand from roughly 5,000 to 6,000
housing units over the next 25 years (Propel Vallejo, 2015). Industrial and warehouse
developments are limited in Vallejo, but continued investments on Mare Island and the
proposed reuse of the former General Mills site by Vallejo Marine Terminal will bring about
small development outcomes in the sector. Demand for retail and restaurant development is
likely to occur within the Solano 360 project and future projections for the
downtown/waterfront will also bring targeted development activities. Vallejo is also likely to
attract one or more hotels in the mid-scale to higher price range over the 25-year period (Propel
Vallejo, 2015).
Downtown/Waterfront: The Vallejo Downtown Specific Plan (2005) describes downtown
development as the enhancement of approximately 97.2 acres in the downtown area. The
Waterfront Project consists of 110 acres of improvements and developments of a continuous
promenade along Vallejo’s waterfront from Solano Avenue on the south to the Mare Island
Causeway on the North (City of Vallejo, 2005). Although the Downtown and Waterfront
projects are separated as two individual projects, they are complementary. Both plans have
been implemented.
Mare Island: After the 1992 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Report recommending the
closure of Mare Island Naval Shipyard, the City of Vallejo undertook an extensive community-
based planning process for reuse, culminating in the Mare Island Final Reuse Plan (1994), and
leading to the subsequent Mare Island Specific Plan (1999). The Specific Plan was later amended
in 2004 and once again in 2007. The Specific Plan established a vision for Mare Island as a
civilian employment center and focused on the replacement of jobs and economic activity once
provided by the military use of the island (Mare Island Specific Plan, 2007). The Specific Plan
maintains the goals to create jobs, sustain and improve economic conditions in Vallejo, create a
self-sustaining and multi-use community, preserve and enhance the history of Mare Island, and
to ensure those impacted from by closure are provided career opportunities and human services
needed (Mare Island Specific Plan, 2007). For example, in Fall 2016, new home construction on
Mare Island started through Lennar Homes Company. Lennar reactivated the Coral Sea Village
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-11
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8D residential subdivision, previously approved in 2006 but never constructed due to the
downturn in the economy. City planners have coordinated with Lennar Homes to update their
approved building plans and exterior designs and recently approved the model home complex
and construction staging area. This new neighborhood will include 38 new single-family homes.
City planners are also processing a subdivision map amendment for the nearby Coral Sea
Village 8C area. This area is west of the 8D subdivision and will include 68 new single family
homes and seven four-plex townhomes.
Although new development on Mare Island has been slow to come to fruition, the Propel
Vallejo Economic and Market Trends Report (2015) notes that “Mare Island has been gaining
ground as a unique industrial and manufacturing hub in the Bay Area.” The report indicates
that strategies to continue and further enhance this momentum are critical development
opportunities. There is a proposed plan for developing an electric car manufacturing plant on
Mare Island; however, this proposal will not be completed in the near-term and would likely be
implemented in phases starting with a show room and test track (Morton, 2016).
Solano 360: The Solano 360 project aims to revitalize the Solano County Fairgrounds with
private mixed-use development. The Solano 360 Final Specific Plan (2011) was developed as a
joint effort by the County of Solano, City of Vallejo, and the Solano County Fair Association, “to
develop a flexible, long-term framework for redevelopment of the Solano County Fairgrounds,
a 149-acre County-owned property located at the crossroads of State Route 37 and Interstate 80
within the City of Vallejo.” The Specific Plan states the redevelopment goals as such:
Generate revenues for Solano County and the City of Vallejo, create jobs and ensure
long-term economic sustainability.
Establish a unique place with an unmistakable identity that serves as a destination for
visitors as well as a pedestrian-friendly, community-gathering place.
Explore a mix of complementary land uses, including retail, commercial, hospitality,
recreational, residential, family and youth oriented, educational and civic uses that
seamlessly integrate with the “Fair of the Future”.
Explore increased physical connectivity and synergy with Six Flags Discovery Kingdom,
downtown Vallejo, the waterfront and other existing commercial operations.
Provide pedestrian, bicycle, vehicular, and transit facilities that foster access to, from and
within the site.
Incorporate sustainable and green principles in all aspects of the development.
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-12
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The Solano 360 Final Specific Plan (2011) is intended to guide land use and infrastructure
improvements, coordinate public investments, facilitate private investments, and support
successful long-term, phased revitalization over the next 25 years, ensuring consistency with the
City of Vallejo General Plan and the ability to respond to market conditions and development
opportunities.
Properties with the potential to host new housing development is shown in yellow on Figure
4.2. It is important that the City ensure that public services for these potential future units are
identified and discussed. LAFCO’s most recent municipal service review for the City of Vallejo
was approved in 2005. It is recommended that LAFCO consider updating the City’s MSR to
reflect the future development potential described herein.
Findings & Determinations for Growth and Population Projections
1. The current (year 2016) population of VSFCD is 124,134 permanent residents.
2. Although the population within the City of Vallejo declined during years 2000 to 2010, it
recently has experienced an increase of 1.01% percent.
3. The area within the District’s boundaries does have potential for future growth
especially the City of Vallejo’s specific plan areas. However, in the recent past, the pace
of new growth has been relatively slow. Between the years 2015 to 2040, the population
within the City of Vallejo (and within the District) is expected to grow by 13,700 persons
(11.6 percent) as listed in Table 4.4.
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-13
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Appendix A -Vacant Land Inventory
Housing Opportunity Sites
Final Wastewater Services MSR
4.4: DISADVANTAGED UNINCORPORATED
COMMUNITIES
Senate Bill (SB) 244, which became effective in January 2012, requires LAFCO to consider the
presence of any Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities (DUCs) when preparing a MSR
that addresses agencies that provide water, wastewater or structural fire protection services. A
DUC is an unincorporated geographic area with 12 or more registered voters with a median
household income of 80 percent or less of the statewide median household income (MHI). This
state legislation is intended to ensure that the needs of these unincorporated communities are
met when considering service extensions and/or annexations, in particular, water, wastewater,
drainage, and structural fire protection services.
To understand the geographic distribution of disadvantaged communities within VSFCD’s
boundaries, five sources of data were considered:
District data
LAFCO data
Solano County Housing Assessment and other County data
California Department of Water Resources, on-line mapping tool
U.S. Census
ABAG and MTC Equity Analysis Threshold
According to the U.S. Census, the median household income (MHI) for the State was $61,933 in
2014 (US Census, ACS, 2010-2014). This yields a DUC threshold MHI of less than $49,546 (80
percent of the statewide MHI) (US Census, 2014; Disadvantaged Communities Mapping Tool).
The median household income and relevant data were reviewed for the City of Vallejo area. As
of 2014 the median household income (MHI) in the City of Vallejo was estimated to be $58,472
(U.S. Census, 2010-2014). This is higher than the DUC threshold MHI.
Disadvantaged Areas within Cities
LAFCO is required to consider the provision of public services to disadvantaged
unincorporated communities (DUCs). However, incorporated areas (within the city limits) can
sometimes meet the disadvantaged income threshold. LAFCO is not required to study the
status of disadvantaged neighborhoods that are located within incorporated cities that provide
water, wastewater, drainage and structural fire protection services. However, SB 244 required
cities to update their land use and housing elements to include an analysis of the water,
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-15
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wastewater, storm water, and structural fire protection services in the area along with financing
options to help encourage investment in disadvantaged areas, should it be needed. As part of
this effort, the bill required cities to identify and address any disadvantaged communities
within their sphere of influence (SOI). Disadvantaged communities are defined as a “fringe
communities” or areas within the cities’ SOI that meets the state defined income for DUCs,
which is a MHI of 80 percent or less than the statewide median. The cities base their analysis on
income levels from the U.S. Census, American Community Survey (ACS), or other
supplemental sources. For example, since Vallejo is an incorporated city, by definition it does
not contain any unincorporated areas within its jurisdictional boundaries. The U.S. Census 2010
found the median household income (MHI) in the City was $58,472. This is higher than the
DUC threshold MHI and therefore, there are no sizeable disadvantaged communities within the
City of Vallejo’s jurisdictional boundaries.
However, Vallejo does contain several unincorporated islands, within its larger, outer
boundary. Unincorporated Islands are areas that are substantially or completely surrounded by
the City of Vallejo and yet remain outside of the legal boundary of the city and under the
jurisdiction of Solano County. Partially surrounded islands are those that are surrounded on
two or more sides by the City.
LAFCO Data
LAFCO’s August 8, 2016 staff report identified eleven unincorporated islands in the Vallejo area
as shown in Figure 4.3 and Table 4.5 below.
Table 4.5: Vallejo / Benicia Area Island Summary
Area Acreage Current Use – According to Assessor Fire Sewer Water
Surrounded
1 5.29 Manufactured Home Park East Vallejo FPD VSFCD City
2 9.38 Vacant Commercial Industrial/Rural Res East Vallejo FPD VSFCD uncertain
3 270.85 Single Family Residential/ Mixed Cordelia FPD none City and
wells
4 11.86 Single Family Residential East Vallejo FPD VSFCD City
5 70.74 Single Family /Multi Family Residential East Vallejo FPD VSFCD City and
wells
Substantially Surrounded (75%)
6 222.13 Marsh/Gov't Misc East Vallejo FPD VSFCD none
7 44.77 Marsh East Vallejo FPD VSFCD none
8 297.6 Park and Recreation (82 ac) / Water Bodies none VSFCD none
9 408.73 Agriculture East Vallejo FPD VSFCD none
10 4.72 Agriculture East Vallejo FPD VSFCD well
11 250.09 Agriculture Cordelia FPD none none
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Data Source: LAFCO Staff Report for August 8, 2016 meeting, Agenda Item 7D.
Data Source for water supply: Pamela Sahin, Water Conservation Coordinator, City of Vallejo
1
SID – Solano Irrigation District
2
VSFCD –Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District
The unincorporated islands also receive utilities from the following service providers:
• Electric and Natural Gas: Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E)
• Cable: DIRECTV and Comcast
As described in the above Table, Areas # 1 to 5 are developed and may utilize public services.
Areas # 6 to 11 are undeveloped and used as open space or agriculture and public services are
often not necessary.
Solano County Housing Assessment
In 2015, Solano County updated its Housing Element, a part of the General Plan. As part of that
process, the County prepared a Housing Needs Assessment. This Assessment identified four
unincorporated islands within the City of Vallejo and the District that had potential housing
needs and which may meet the criteria for a disadvantaged neighborhood. These
unincorporated islands are commonly referred to as: 1) Starr Subdivision, 2) Homeacres, 3)
Springs Road and 4) Sandy Beach. The four islands are urbanized and surrounded on all sides
by the City of Vallejo. Each of the unincorporated islands is served by VSFCD and is located
within the District’s boundaries.
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Figure 4.3: LAFCO’s Map of Islands near Vallejo
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DWR Mapping Tool
According the California
Department of Water Resources
(DWR) on-line mapping tool1,
much of the Vallejo area can be
considered disadvantaged as
shown in Figure 4.4 (right).
The above map depicts
Disadvantaged Communities
Block Groups. This layer is
derived from data of the US
Census ACS 2010-2014 showing
census block groups identified as
disadvantaged communities (less
than 80% of the State's median
household income) or severely disadvantaged communities (less than 60% of the State's median
household income). However, U.S. Census Community Block Group data is low resolution and
does not provide information on specific neighborhoods.
Census Data
In 2014, the statewide annual median household income (MHI) was $61,933. This yields a DUC
threshold MHI of less than $49,546 (80 percent of the statewide MHI). Relevant census data
were reviewed for the Vallejo area. Solano County has a total of 284 Block Groups as defined
by the U.S. Census. Of these, 72 Block Groups have a median household income of less than
$49,546 and meet the disadvantaged threshold (U.S. Census, 2014). Most of these block groups
are outside the geographic area of interest for this study. The U.S. Census Tool called “Census
Explorer was used to depict median income for census tracts within and near Vallejo as shown
in Figure 4.5, below. Many of the census tracts within Vallejo meet the financial criteria to be
classified as disadvantaged.
1 DWR mapping tool is available at: https://gis.water.ca.gov/app/dacs/
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Figure 4.5
The census tracts and block groups that relate to the eleven unincorporated islands that LAFCO
identified is shown in Table 4.6, below. The areas listed in Table 4.6 correspond to the area
numbers depicted in Figure 4.3, above.
The data for median household income shown in Table 4.6 above indicates that Area 1meets the
financial criteria (80% of statewide MHI) to be classified as a disadvantaged unincorporated
community. Additionally, portions of Areas 4, 5 and 6 also meet the financial to be classified as
a disadvantaged unincorporated community. Area 8 appears to meet the financial criteria;
however there is a high margin of error for this area which potentially pushes the MHI above
the threshold. Areas 6 and 8 are located along the river and bay shoreline and are comprised of
marshland and other habitat features. Since they are not developed, there is not a demand for
public services in these two areas.
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Table 4.6: 11 Unincorporated Islands with Census Data
Area Acreage Census Tract Census Block Median Margin of Disadvantaged Number of
Group Household Error within Margin Blocks within
Income in Block of Error Block Group
Group
Surrounded
1 5.29 2502.00 1 $40,711 4541 Yes Data not available
2 9.38 2505.02 1 and 2 $69,844 and n/a No 3 blocks
$62,756
2521.04 $131,597 n/a No Data not available
3 270.85 2505.01 1 and 2 $58,636 and n/a No 25 blocks
$55,179
2506.01 1 $62,206 n/a No Data not available
4 11.86 2508.01 1 $74,111 n/a No 6 blocks
2508.01 3 $38,854 10073 Yes Data not available
5 70.74 2511 1 $47,837 3817 No 31 blocks
2507.01 1 $32,750 6439 Yes Data not available
Substantially Surrounded (75%)
6 222.13 2518.03 1 $59,545 n/a No 5 blocks
2518.02 1 $19,572 4597 Yes Data not available
7 44.77 2518.03 1 $59,545 n/a No Data not available
8 297.6 2518.04 1 and 3 $43,056 28,091 No Data not available
2518.03 1 $59,545 n/a No Data not available
9 408.73 2501.06 1 $159,844 n/a No Data not available
10 4.72 2501.06 1 $159,844 n/a No Data not available
11 250.09 2521.04 1 and 2 $131,597 n/a No Data not available
Data Source: Solano County GIS data and US Census via http://factfinder.census.gov. Methodology by Caltrans. Data compiled by Stolen & Harrison.
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District Data
For low income residents, the District offers a discount on cost of service. The District publishes
public information on the Reduced Rate Program and customers are eligible to apply provided
they meet the requirements of the PG&E CARE Program. The District uses its property tax
revenue to fund the low income program. No health and safety issues have been identified
within the unincorporated islands.
DUC Summary
Eleven unincorporated islands have been identified within the VSFCD boundary area. Four
areas appear to potentially meet disadvantaged financial criteria as listed in Table 4.6, above.
Based on information in the Solano County Housing Needs Assessment, two areas (#3, Starr
and #5, Homeacres) are in need of programs to improve housing conditions and could
potentially be classified as DUCs. Additionally, census data listed in Table 4.6 shows that at
least portions of four areas (1, 4, 5, and 6) meet the financial criteria to be classified as DUCs.
These four areas do receive water, fire, and wastewater services as listed in Table 4.5, above.
Additionally, no public health and safety issues have been identified. This analysis is based on
the best information currently available.
Findings & Determinations for Disadvantaged Unincorporated
Communities
4. The median household income (MHI) within the Vallejo community is $58,472. This is
higher than the DUC threshold MHI of less than $49,546 (80 percent of the Statewide
MHI).
5. There are 11 fully and partially surrounded unincorporated islands within the City of
Vallejo and the District. Each of the 11 islands do receive water, wastewater, and fire
services. No deficiency in public services to these areas have been identified.
6. Preliminary indications from Solano County’s Housing Needs Assessment indicate that
Starr Subdivision and Homeacres neighborhood could potentially meet disadvantaged
criteria; however specific financial data was not analyzed in the County’s Assessment.
7. The median household income for census tracts and block groups near the 11
unincorporated islands was studied as listed in Table 4.6. Based on this analysis, at least
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a portion of four unincorporated islands do meet the financial threshold to be classified
as DUCs.
8. No health and safety issues have been identified within these four unincorporated
islands. Each of the four islands do receive water, wastewater, and fire services. No
deficiency in public services to these areas have been identified.
9. For low income residents, the District offers a discount on cost of service. The District
publishes public information on the Reduced Rate Program and customers are eligible to
apply provided they meet the requirements of the PG&E CARE Program. The District
uses its property tax revenue to fund the low income program. No health and safety
issues have been identified within the unincorporated islands.
4.5: PRESENT AND PLANNED CAPACITY OF PUBLIC
FACILITIES
Service Overview
VSFCD provides wastewater and flood control services to customers within their boundary.
The District’s major facilities include 436 miles of sewer pipes, 250 miles of storm drain pipes,
10,000 catch basins, 28 sewer pump stations, 5 stormwater pump stations, and the wastewater
treatment plant (VSFCD, 2016). District-owned lands include 12.36-acres for the treatment plant
and pump stations and 1,417-acres on Tubbs Island where biosolids are spread for agricultural
use (VSFCD, 2016).
The number of sewer connections served by the District is estimated to be 37,804 (Table 4.7);
approximately 76 percent of the District’s customers are residential uses (Morton, 2016) and a
significant fraction of the residential customers live in multi-family units (i.e. condominiums or
apartments). In 2015, the District regulated approximately 460 businesses including 5
Significant Industrial Users (SIUs), approximately 189 small commercial/industrial businesses,
approximately 225 food service facilities (restaurants, delicatessens, rest homes, etc.) and
approximately 46 dental practitioners (VSFCD Environmental Services Department, 2016). A
6th SIU is currently completing the permitting process and will be discharging as soon as the
process is complete (VSFCD, 2016).
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Table 4.7: Summary of Sewer Connections in District
Type of Sewer Connection Number of Connections in 2016
Commercial/Industrial Connections 460
Residential Connections 37,344
Total Number of Sewer Connections 37,804
Wastewater Service
The District’s original facilities and infrastructure were built in the late 1950s (Solano LAFCo,
2006). The primary infrastructure and capital focus for wastewater service has been on
maintaining and improving existing systems. The District facilities and infrastructure system
has undergone numerous updates, repairs and expansions. The first comprehensive facilities
master plan for the District
was created in 1987 and
outlined specific maintenance
and capacity issues to be
addressed. The District
periodically updates the
existing master plan, with the
most recent comprehensive
update in 1997. Additionally,
in 2002 the District
implemented a Storm Drain
Master Plan (Solano LAFCo, 2006).
The 1997 Wastewater Facilities Master Plan/Action Plan (current Master Plan) built upon the
1987 Master Plan and its 1992 Interim Update. Since the development of the 1987 Master Plan,
the District has experienced almost continuous construction and upgrading at its wastewater
treatment plant (WWTP). With the completion of these projects, the treatment plant has
expanded its design/permitted capacity to its current 15.5 million gallons per day (MGD)
average dry weather flow at full secondary level of treatment. With this treatment capability,
the District indicates that the plant, as it currently exists, is able to meet the wastewater needs of
the service area through its current projected buildout (Solano LAFCo, 2006).
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Collection System Infrastructure
The existing collection system for the District consists of approximately 436 miles of sewer main
lines ranging in size from four (4) inches to sixty (60) inches in diameter; 36 pump stations; 11.6
miles of force mains; and 76 miles of lower laterals in the public right-of-way/easement, ranging
in size from four (4) inches to eight (8) inches (VSFCD Field Operations Department, 2016).
The current Master Plan emphasizes long-term programs, mainly an infiltration/inflow (I/I)
reduction program. The program includes I/I source detection, flow monitoring, computer
modeling, and geographic information system (GIS) Continual Condition Assessment.
However, corrective maintenance also is a significant component of the Master Plan. This
includes improvements to reduce I/I, continuation of an upper lateral (privately-owned pipes)
replacement program, replacement and conversion of private sewer mains, and the cyclic
replacements and rehabilitation of mains as part of the Capital Improvement Program (VSFCD
Field Operations Department, 2016). There are several measures of integrity for a wastewater
collection system, including peaking factors, efforts to address l/l, and inspection practices. The
specific measures the District takes to ensure integrity of the system are described in the
following paragraphs.
VSFCD has an active program of collection system maintenance, inspection, repair and
rehabilitation. The District has preventive
maintenance programs in place to continually
assess the condition of the system during
maintenance activities. The District uses closed
circuit television (CCTV) inspections, both on a
spot check basis and as part of a continual system
wide assessment, with feedback from field crews
to adjust maintenance schedules as maintenance
is being performed (VSFCD, 2016).
The District plans for cleaning and inspection of
the system on regular cycles including jet
inspection every 3-4 years and CCTV inspection
every 8 years. The District tracks the frequency of
service calls, CCTV condition assessment,
preventative maintenance schedule frequency,
and I/I reduction to help plan for repair and
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rehabilitation of the system infrastructure. The District also has I/I reduction strategies in place
including manhole inspection/rehabilitation, main line condition assessment, an Upper Lateral
I/I Reduction Program, and Smart Cover monitoring of the collection system (VSFCD, 2016).
VSFCD utilizes Infor Public Sector Version 8.3 software for its Computerized Maintenance
Management System. The District upgraded in 2014 from Hansen version 7.7 to Infor Public
Sector 8.3 to stay current with new management technologies. Infor allows the District to track
schedules, manage workloads, record CCTV Data to track changes over time, and make
decisions regarding in-house repairs and system-wide rehabilitation. The District is planning to
upgrade the software to Infor Public Sector 8.5 to enhance mobile computing capabilities for the
field crew. The District currently uses laptops and iPads in the field to access and input
information into Infor and to manage USA tickets, GIS, and emails as needed (VSFCD, 2016).
VSFCD uses these strategies and programs to reduce sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) in the
system, which has significantly reduced SSOs from 73 occurrences in 2006 to 20 in 2015
(VSFCD, 2016).
Treatment System Infrastructure
The District operates under the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Order No. 2006-
0003-DWQ which specifies water discharge requirements for the District’s Sanitary Sewer
Collection System. The District operates under the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality
Control Board Order No. R2-2012-0017 and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) Permit No. CA0037699, which specifies the Waste Discharge Requirement (WDR) for
the District’s WWTP on Ryder Street. The current WDR for the treatment plant prohibits the
discharge of average dry weather flows greater than 15.5 MGD and average wet weather flows
greater than 60 MGD (VSFCD Field Operations Department, 2016).
In 2015, the District’s average
annual flow volume at the WWTP
was 8.8 MGD and the peak daily
flow for the year was 49.1 MGD
(VSFCD, 2016). A formal
enforcement action (R2-2016-1009)
was taken in March 2016 in
response to a chlorine violation on
November 14, 2014; the
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mandatory minimum penalty was applied (VSFCD, 2016).
The WWTP uses trickling filters/solids contact to achieve a secondary level of treatment
(VSFCD, 2016). Order No. R2-2012-0017 and NPDES Permit No. CA0037699 includes the
following facility and discharge description for the District. The Discharger owns and operates a
collection system and secondary wastewater treatment facility. The treatment system consists of
screens, aerated grit removal, primary sedimentation, biofiltration, biological aeration,
mechanical skimming, secondary clarification, disinfection by chlorination and/or ultraviolet
light, and dechlorination. Wastewater is discharged from Discharge Point No. 001 to the
Carquinez Strait and from Discharge Point No. 002 to Mare Island Strait, both waters of the
United States. Wastewater is discharged from Discharge Point No. 001 during normal
operations. Discharge through Discharge Point No. 002 occurs only during wet weather when
effluent flows exceed 30 MGD. Lime stabilization and gravity thickening are used to treat solids
removed from the wastewater stream; belt filter presses are also used to dewater solids. The
Discharger hauls and disposes of stabilized and dewatered biosolids off-site.
Solids are de-watered and stabilized with lime to meet land application requirements required
under the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 40, Part 503 rules. Biosolids are transported
by District trucks to a farm owned by the District on Tubbs Island2 in Sonoma County. Biosolids
are stockpiled on a storage pad and applied to fields annually in September, in a rotating 5 year
schedule (VSFCD, 2016).
The District does not currently produce recycled water; however, the District has received a
Proposition 1 Planning Grant to partially fund a Recycled Water Feasibility Study (VSFCD,
2016).
Sewer Demand
Demand for wastewater
service is typically
impacted by development
occurring within the
District that could result
2
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in an increase in the demand for those services and the need for additional infrastructure. For
example, the addition of 1,400 residential homes, and 7 million square feet of commercial and
industrial space as envisioned by the Mare Island Reuse Plan could add about 0.7 to 1.0 MGD of
Average Dry Weather Flow (ADWF) to be treated. However, VSFCD will further analyze
potential impacts of growth on the collection, treatment, and disposal system as development
projects are proposed. At a cursory level, future growth within VSFCD’s boundaries is
expected to be approximately 2 percent within the 20 year planning period (VSFCD, 2016).
In 2012 the District prepared a Local Limit Assessment which studied current capacity and
treatment efficiency, but did not reflect future growth. Based on this study, current flows into
the WWTP are little over 50% of plant capacity based on the current loading and in compliance
with the NPDES permit. District engineers indicate it is unlikely that the WWTP will reach its
capacity within the next 10 years, even if Mare Island development rate were to increase
substantially. The District’s present wastewater treatment facilities are built to accommodate
potential growth in the City of Vallejo (personal communication Dan Tafolla, and Johnson Ho
December 2016). However, the District’s collection system would likely require upgrades to
accommodate new development. For example, the geographic distribution of the collection
sewer pipes may need to be expanded to reach new neighborhoods and typically this expansion
is the responsibility of private land developers. Additionally, the size of some neighborhood
sewer pipes may be too small to accommodate new growth. Again, responsibility for increasing
the size of sewer pipes sometimes falls to private land developers who wish to accommodate
new growth.
Flood Control Service
The District is responsible for an extensive storm water drainage system. The District manages
over 11,400 storm drain structures, including 239 miles of pipe, 11.5 miles of open channel, 5
detention basins, and 9 pump stations (VSFCD Field Operations Department, 2016). Vallejo
contains several natural creeks including Blue Rock Springs Creek and Hanns Rindler Creek
which drain to San Pablo Bay, part of the Bay/Delta estuary. Additionally, several lakes are
located in the watershed including Lake Chabot and Lake Dalwigk. Flood Zones within the City
are shown in Figure 4.6. The basic topography and hydrology of the area is shown in Figure
4.7, (next page) which is an excerpt from a 1947 map by the U.S. Geological Survey. A more
detailed map of the watersheds in the area has been prepared by VSFCD and is shown in Figure
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4.7. The creeks receive
Figure 4.6
drainage and
precipitation from
storm events and may
periodically be subject
to flooding.
The storm water
system bypasses the
WWTP and is
discharged directly to
San Pablo Bay
(VSFCD, 2016). Several
of VSFCD’s storm water basins drain into Lake Dalwigk, a storm water storage facility which
VSFCD owns (VSFCD Finance Department, 2016). Lake Dalwigk and the parklands that
surround it are managed by the Greater Vallejo Recreation District. The park contains marsh
habitat for amphibians and other wildlife.
The District inspects all storm water drainage inlets annually in preparation for the winter
storm season so as to minimize the potential for maintenance-related localized flooding. As an
example, of the 11,400 storm drain structures maintained by the District, approximately 7,600
are drain inlets that are inspected annually to determine specific cleaning needs. Of the drain
inlets the District inspected in 2015, 300 needed follow up cleaning; a number that has been
fairly static each year since this inspection process has been in place.
The District has an active outreach program to educate the public regarding storm water
discharges to the natural environment, which has made a noticeable difference in the reduction
of debris in the drain inlets. Maintenance of all the open channels, drainage ditches, and creeks
in the District is managed in compliance with the appropriate permits, which limit maintenance
activities to mowing and specific obstructive debris removal. The District is beginning a permit
and project process to allow more targeted debris removal of drainage channels to allow for
improving conveyance capacity over time and through on-going maintenance efforts (VSFCD
Field Operations Department, 2016).
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Any new development
Figure 4.7
projects are required
to provide storm
water infrastructure,
such as debris capture
devices that meet
District requirements
as outlined in the
District’s storm water
ordinances (VSFCD,
2016).
Adequacy and Challenges in Provision of Service and
Infrastructure
The potential challenges the District has identified regarding the provision of wastewater and
flood control services include (Vallejo, 2016):
Increased water quality regulations for the San Pablo Bay discharge permit
Expansion of the wastewater treatment plant for production of recycled water
Reduction in wastewater flows from water conservation efforts
Rapid increase in implementation of major development projects
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Figure 4.8: Watersheds in the Vallejo Area
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Findings &Determinations for Present and Planned Capacity of
Public Facilities
10. The number of sewer connections served by the District is estimated to be 37,804;
approximately 76 percent of the District’s customers are residential uses. There are
approximately 460 commercial and industrial customers, including 5 Significant
Industrial Users (SIUs), served by the District.
11. New development projects are required to provide storm water facilities as part of
project improvement plans.
12. As a result of the District’s measures to ensure integrity of the wastewater collection
system, VSFCD has significantly reduced Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs) from 73
occurrences in 2006 to 20 in 2015.
13. The treatment plant has sufficient design and permitted capacity to meet projected
growth for the City of Vallejo and unincorporated areas within District boundaries.
14. The Capital Improvement Plan focuses on improvements for effectiveness of the
maintenance program and to reduce I/I in the sewer collection system, and plans for
projects to correct these deficiencies in a timely manner. Implementation of the CIP
would appear to allow the sewer system to function effectively throughout the plan
period.
4.6: FINANCIAL ABILITY TO PROVIDE SERVICES
In California, special districts are classified as enterprise or non-enterprise districts, based on
their source of revenue:
Enterprise districts: Primary revenue source is fees for public service. Under this model,
the customers that consume goods or services such as drinking or irrigation water,
waste disposal, or electricity, pay a fee. Rates are set by a governing board and there is a
nexus between the costs of providing services and the rates customers pay. Sometimes
enterprise district may also receive property taxes which comprise a portion of their
budget.
Non-enterprise districts: Districts which receive property taxes are typically classified as
non-enterprise districts. Services that indirectly benefit the entire community, such as
flood or fire protection, community centers, and cemetery districts are often funded
through property taxes.
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VSFCD is primarily an enterprise district but also receives a property tax share. VSFCD has
three enterprise funds including: wastewater, storm water, and upper lateral. Additionally,
VSFCD also provides non-enterprise functions which are funded through property taxes.
Property taxes are administered by County of Solano program and these tax revenues are
considered subventions not restricted as to purpose.
VSFCD has several accounting policies which are described in the beginning of its annual
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) (i.e. financial statements). A few of the key
policies include Long-Term Debt Costs of Issuance Policy, Risk Retention Policy, and Net
Position Policy. It has an adopted management and budget policy addressing budget
preparation, fixed asset accounting, investment of funds, and expense authorization. Budgets
are adopted in public meetings on a biennial basis by the District’s Board of Trustees (not by the
City of Vallejo). The fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends on June 30. The Budget and financial
audits for the most recent year is available to the public via the District’s website3. Financial
information for previous years is available upon request from District staff.
Although VSFCD is a separate legal entity, apart from the City of Vallejo, its finances are a
Component Unit of the City of Vallejo. Component units are legally separate organizations and
are utilized for agencies where elected officials of the primary government are financially
accountable. Financial accountability exists in situations where a voting majority of an
organization’s governing body is substantively the same as the governing body of the primary
government. VSFCD’s Board of Trustees4 approves the annual budget and audit. Additionally,
specific financial information is submitted to the State Controller’s Office and the County of
Solano (VSFCD, CAFR, 2016).
Financing Corporation
Many districts in California utilize nonprofit corporations (referred to as "63-20 Corporations")
in structuring public/private infrastructure debt. Public agency members can restrict the
purposes or powers of the nonprofit in its certificate of incorporation. The Vallejo Sanitation
and Flood Control District’s Financing Corporation was organized only to provide financial
assistance to the District by acquiring, constructing, improving and financing various facilities,
land and equipment, and by leasing or selling certain facilities, land and equipment for the use,
benefit and enjoyment of the public served by the District. The Financing Corporation has no
3 VSFCD budget is available at: https://www.vsfcd.com/SitePages/financials.aspx
4 VSFCD is governed by an eight-member Board of Trustees composed of the seven-members of the Vallejo City
Council and one member from the Solano County Board of Supervisors that serve staggered four-year terms.
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members and its Board of Directors consists of the same VSFCD Trustees. No separate financial
statements are prepared for the Financing Corporation.
Financial Performance Indicators
Table 4.8: Financial Performance Indicators
Key Performance Indicators Notes
Summary financial information presented The District’s biennial budget does provide
in a standard format and simple language. text and tables that summarize financial
information.
Reserve funds and their purpose Area for improvement.
District policy on the accumulation and VSFCD currently has a reserve policy that is
use of reserves being evaluated and updated as part of the
upcoming rate study*.
Plans for the future, including anticipated The District is in the process of completing a
revenues, expenditures, reserves and long-term financial plan and rate study which
trends in user rates is anticipated to be completed in early 2017 for
Board of Trustee consideration*.
Rates Rates for storm water were adequately
described to voters during a recent ballot
measure. Wastewater rates are currently
being reviewed as part of a rate study which
will ensure rates are adequate for the cost of
providing service and maintaining
infrastructure*
*Data Source: Ms. Mary Morris, VSFCD Director of Finance, personal communication, December
2016
VSFCD’s enterprise funds are accounted for using the full accrual basis of accounting. With this
accounting method, revenues from user fees and other sources are recorded when earned, and
expenses for goods and services are recorded when obligations are incurred (VSFCD, CAFR,
2016). Additionally, the District’s financial statements are prepared in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). The Government Accounting Standards
Board (GASB) is responsible for establishing GAAP for state and local governments through its
statements and interpretations. The District uses the accrual basis of accounting. VSFCD has
received several Certificates of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the
Government Finance Officers Association for its' Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
(VSFCD, CAFR, 2016).
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-34
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The most recent independent auditor’s report was prepared for Fiscal Year (FY) 2014/2015 and
dated January 12, 2016, and was attached to the District’s Financial Statements. The audit found
that VSFCD’s financial statements fairly presented their financial position in all material
respects. Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States were followed.
(Vavrinek, Trine, Day & Company LLP, 2016). The Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
(CAFR) contains a Statement of Net Position, Statement of Revenues and Expenses and Changes
in Net Position, Statement of Cash Flows and Notes to Basic Financial Statements. Increases or
decreases in net position over time are an indicator of the District’s overall financial health and
should be considered together with management’s short and long-term plans for prospectively
financing programs and services.
Figure 4.9 : Revenues FY 14/15 Interest &
Property investment
Revenues
taxes 2%
3%
VSFCD has two basic
operating non-
types of revenue,
revenues operating
Operating 1% revenues
revenues consist 2%
primarily of
charges for Service
services. charges
92%
Non-operating
revenues and
expenses are
Data Source: VSFCD, CARF, 2016
related to
financing and investing type activities. Property tax receipts are also an example of non-
operating revenue.
The District primarily (91% to 92%) receives revenue as fees for service as shown in Figure 4.9,
below. Sources of revenue include: wastewater service charges, drainage fees, connection fees,
interest income, and property tax. For the fiscal year 2015-16, the VSFCD served approximately
38,000 customer accounts and gathered approximately $31 million in revenue from rate-based
service charges and total revenues were almost $34 million as shown in Table 4.9, below
(VSFCD, CAFR, 2016). VSFCD receives an allocation of property taxes as authorized by the
State of California. In FY 15/16, property tax revenue was $949,071. This is slightly higher than
in prior years due to an increase in property tax values (VSFCD, CAFR, 2016).
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Table 4.9: Condensed Statements of Revenues
Description Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Amount Percent
Ended Ended Ended Ended Ended Increase Increase
6/30/2011 6/30/2012 6/30/2013 6/30/2014 6/30/2015 (Decrease) (Decrease)
2015-2014 2015-2014
Revenues
Service charges $25,192,643 $25,917,040 $26,778,540 $ 27,312,302 $ 28,208,614 $ 896,312 3.3%
Other operating revenues 731,993 743,917 662,325 761,584 434,531 (327,053) -42.9%
Property taxes 762,361 729,637 811,231 778,473 876,878 98,405 12.6%
Interest and investment 1,042,068 1,606,780 275,791 1,209,719 752,513 (457,206) -37.8%
Other non-operating 200,344 329,894 323,932 453,552 518,096 64,544 14.2%
revenues
Total revenues 27,929,409 29,327,268 28,851,819 30,515,630 30,790,632 275,002 0.9%
Source: VSFCD, CAFR, 2016, 2014, and 2012
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Expenses
In FY14/15, operating expenses were $25 million for the wastewater system, $2.4 million for storm
water, and $0.47 million for the upper lateral system. Breaking expenses down by categories
(including non-operating interest expense) shows that in FY 14/15 salaries and benefits for
employees are the largest (43%) expense for the District as shown in Figure 4.10, below. In FY15/16,
operating expenses were $26.5 million for the wastewater system, $2.4 million for storm water, and
$0.66 million for the upper lateral system. (VSFCD, CAFR, 2016).
Figure 4.10: VSFCD Expenses FY 14/15
Interest expense
8%
General & admin
8%
Utilities & phone
6% Salaries and
benefits
43%
Depreciation and
amortization
27%
Operations
materials,
supplies and
service
%
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Table 4.10: Condensed Statements of Expenses and Changes in Net Position
Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Percent
Ended Ended Ended Ended Ended Increase
Description
6/30/2011 6/30/2012 6/30/2013 6/30/2014 6/30/2015
(Decrease)
2015-2014
Expenses
Salaries and benefits 11,806,666 15,326,564 11,933,622 12,893,571 13,144,752 1.9%
Operations materials, supplies and 2,645,808 2,607,931 2,513,384 2,953,539 2,338,680 -20.8%
Deprec iation and amortization 8,164,530 8,279,443 8,317,451 8,336,273 8,328,691 -0.1%
Utilities and telephone 1,737,079 1,357,460 1,647,826 1,548,515 1,670,587 7.9%
General and administrative 1,686,030 1,996,831 2,237,321 2,558,376 2,461,696 -3.8%
Interest expense 3,244,200 3,195,587 3,034,667 2,676,177 2,529,416 -5.5%
Total expenses 29,284,313 32,763,816 29,684,271 30,966,451 30,473,822 -1.6%
Income before capital contributions (1,354,904) (3,436,548) (832,452) (450,821) 316,810 -170.3%
Connection fee revenue 214,574 306,174 57,990 216,982 100,179 -53.8%
Contributions from developers 629,636 4,507,084 0 0 0 0
Net Position
Increase (decrease) in net position (510,694) 1,376,710 (774,462)
(233,839) 416,989 -278.3%
Net position - beg of year 190,705,810 190,195,116 $191,571,826 190,233,312 175,184,366 -7.9%
Net position - end of year $190,195,116 $191,571,826 $190,797,364 $ 189,999,473 $175,601,355 -7.6%
Source: VSFCD, CAFR, 2016, 2014, 2012
Note: The 2013/2014 and the 2014/2015 Net Position at the beginning of the year is a restatement due to the implementation of
GASB 68.
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The District’s annual Financial Statement provides financial trend information to assist the public with
understanding changes in financial performance and financial outcomes. Between the years 2006 to
2015, VSFCD’s total net position has declined by ten percent as shown in Figure 4.11. The decline is
attributable to less net investment in capital assets, less restricted funds for capital and debt service, less
unrestricted funds (property tax and other), and implementation of new GASB statements that increase
long-term liabilities. Overall, having a stable net position shows that a district has been able to maintain
a positive fund balance, such that spending is in line with revenues (or in some situations reserves are
available to maintain the fund balance).
$200,000,000
$190,000,000
$180,000,000
$170,000,000
$160,000,000
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-39
5102 4102 3102 2102 1102 0102 9002 8002 7002 6002
Figure 4.11: Total net position
Total net
position
Source: VSFCD, CAFR, 2016
Final Wastewater Services MSR
Source: VSFCD, CAFR, 2016
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In recent years, operating revenue has exceeded operating expenses. However, during years 2006 to
2012, expenses exceeded revenues and the difference was made whole from reserve funds. This
situation indicates that VSFCD revenues are sensitive to the state of the local economy. This also
indicates that having sufficient reserve funds is important to VSFCD to help it weather the
economically lean years. Figure 4.12 and Table 4.11 below compares operating revenue to operating
expenses over the ten year study period.
$30,000,000
$25,000,000
$20,000,000
$15,000,000
$10,000,000
$5,000,000
.
$0
Vallejo Sanitation & Flood Control District 4-41
$
.S.U
5102 4102 3102 2102 1102 0102 9002 8002 7002 6002
Figure 4.12 : VSFCD Operating Revenues and Expenses
Total operating
revenues
Total operating
expenses
Final Wastewater Services MSR
Table 4.11: Changes in Net Position
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Changes in net position reflect several factors. Connection fee revenue is highly variable and is somewhat dependent on the rate of new
home or commercial development. Property tax revenue reached a peak high of $1 million in 2008.
Non-operating costs reached a peak high in 2009 at $5.7 million. This was also at the peak of the recession. The high cost can be partly
attributable to interest expense in 2009 at $3.5 million and investment losses also at $3.5 million. Funds utilized for capital or other
permissible purposes also change through time. Changes in unrestricted net position reflect swings due to the utilization of cash to
construct capital assets or other financing activities.
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Assessed Value of Property Within VSFCD Boundaries
A portion of VSFCD’s revenues are from local property taxes. Property tax revenue is
dependent upon the value of the properties within the District’s boundaries. The Solano
County Assessor’s Office assigns assessed values to properties. The County Auditor’s Office
retains records of property assessed values and property taxes collected.
The Auditor-Controller groups taxable properties into Tax Rate Areas (TRAs). The TRA
contains the taxing authority for each area as established by the State Board of Equalization, as
well as the tax rates for each authority, including districts such as VSFCD. The TRA is shown
on the property tax bill that is mailed to owners of property in the County. VSFCD has 98 TRAs
within its boundaries including TRA # 7000-7088 and # 92002 -92023.
The total value of assessed properties within the District’s boundaries is $9.6 billion as shown in
Table 4.12, below. VSFCD also has a bond debt that is financed based partially on assessed
property value within the benefit area at $2.4 billion. For comparison purposes, the total net
value of all assessed properties in Solano County is $48.8 billion.
Table 4.12: Assessed Property Value by Fund for FY 16/17
NET SECURED NET TOTAL NET
FUND DESCRIPTION VALUE SBE VALUE UNSECURED VALUE
GENERAL
1 COUNTY* $45,983,277,526 $26,822,206 $2,835,057,918 $48,845,157,650
22 VSFCD OPERATING $9,309,385,695 $271,792 $315,514,075 $9,625,171,562
285 VSFCD BOND DEBT $2,382,768,228 $271,792 $17,191,644 $2,400,231,664
Data Source: Solano County Auditor's Office Report # R720102B
Available on-line at: http://www.co.solano.ca.us/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=25551
The value of assessed properties change over time. This annual variation for the past five fiscal
years for VSFCD’s Fund 22 is shown in Figure 4.13, below. Since 2014, the total assessed
property value has increased slightly each year.
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Figure 4.13: Total Assessed Property
Value
in VSFCD boundaries
$15,000,000,000
$10,000,000,000
$5,000,000,000
$0
12_13 13_14 14_15 15_16 16_17
Fiscal Year
Data Source: Solano County Auditor's Office
Based on property values, the County Auditor makes projections about expected tax revenue
during an upcoming year to help agencies monitor their finances. For FY 16/17, the Auditor
projects that VSFCD will receive approximately $1.04 million in tax revenue as shown in Table
4.13 and Figure 4.14, below.
Figure 4.14: Property Tax
Projection For VSFCD
FY 2016/17
1%
0%
2%
1%
5%
3%
SECURED
UNITARY
UNSECURED
HOME
88% OWNERS
SUPPLE
MENTAL
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Table 4.x: Property Tax Projection for County and VSFCD for FY 16/17
UNSECUR HOME SUPPLE R DA PASS- RDA RES. TOTAL
FUND NO. SECURED UNITARY ED OWNERS MENTAL THRU BALANCE PROPERTY TAXES
GENERAL FD 001 $70,694,669 $3,125,279 $3,833,700 $919,690 $1,700,000 $15,849,682 $4,450,545 $100,573,565
COUNTY
VSFCD FD 022 $908,178 $29,527 $49,095 $8,426 $15,575 $3,162 $23,672 $1,037,635
Data Source: Solano County Auditor's Office, 2016.
http://www.co.solano.ca.us/depts/auditor/divisions/proptax/prop_tax_info/2016_201
Capital Improvement Plan
VSFCD Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) aims to upgrade and replace aging District sewer
system and focuses on line rehabilitation and elimination of overflows. The CIP costs
approximately $3M annually and is financed via rates on a pay-as-you-go basis. During FY
14/15, the District completed several CIP projects and construction costs totaled $8,760,436
(VSFCD, CAFR, 2016). VSFCD routinely inventories its capital assets and performs condition
assessments to identify projects to include in the CIP. The CIP is a five-year rolling plan that
funds projects which take more than one year to complete. The District lists its upcoming
capital improvement projects as line items in budget worksheets. Anticipated capital
improvement projects include:
Wastewater Capital Projects
Mare Island Strait outfall #122916
Meadows force main #130612
Army Reserve sewer #130516
Mare Island force main replacement
Alabama Street sewer #132816
Gary Circle/Magazine #131012
Denton Court #2 #152516
Skibbereen/Monteith 8" sewer #071027
Pepper Drive #131412
Chase Street
GIS implementation and upgrade (software)
#3 water station
Distributive Control Systems (DCS) upgrade
Biotower media replacement - one per year
Lateral replacement - 25 each year
Permit mandated Collection Sys Repairs
Solids Processing blding improvements
GPS equipment
Recycled Water Facility
Facility Maintenance bldg improvements
Advanced Treatment for Nutrients
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MIPS mechanical improvements
Levee Maintenance
Treatment plant seawall
(Data Source: VSFCSD, Budget 2015)5
The District aims to spend $7.2 million in FY 15/16 and $5.2 million in FY 16/17 on capital
improvement projects. The above listed improvement projects are expected to be completed
within the next five years (through year 2020) at an estimated cost of $21 million.
The District is developing an Asset Management Plan (AMP) to guide the process of identifying
best practices and prioritizing maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement efforts to ensure
longevity of District facilities and infrastructure. The AMP will also help the District plan for
potential changes to water quality regulations (VSFCD, 2016) (Morton, 2016).
Reserves
In California, many special districts have accumulated reserves. There are no standards
guiding the size and use of reserve funds. Reserve and investment policies and practices could
be improved through the establishment of guidelines and enhanced scrutiny. VSFCD is in the
process of updating its reserve policy (VSFCD, 2016).
Table 4.13 below shows that each of the three enterprise funds has a reserve account and the
total District-Wide Reserve Cash & Investments Reconciliation for FY 2015-16 is $42.5 million.
Interest and investment income in FY 15/16 totaled $840,119. Investments include custody
securities with a fiscal agent and construction and reserve funds with trustee banks.
One of VSFCD’s major initiatives is to perform a reserve analysis in connection with long-term
financial planning to find the right balance between rates, reserve levels, use of debt, and a
consistent capital replacement program.
5 From Five-Year Capital Projects Worksheet on page 27 of pdf
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Final Wastewater Services MSR
Table 4.14: Cash & Investments
Name of Account Amount
Wastewater Funding Reserve Cash & Investments $17 million
Reconciliation FY 2015-16
Storm Water Funding Reserve Cash & Investments $24 million
Reconciliation FY 2015-16
Upper Lateral Reserve Cash & Investments Reconciliation FY $1.5 million
2015-16
District-Wide Reserve Cash & Investments Reconciliation $42.5 million
FY 2015-16 (Total)
Data Source: VSFCD, CAFR, 2016
In addition to reserve cash and investments, VSFCD has specified debt service reserves as
follows:
2014 Revenue Bonds Debt Service Reserve Fund
2011 Revenue Bonds Debt Service Reserve Fund
2006 Certificates of Participation Debt Service Reserve Fund
1993 Certificates of Participation Debt Service Reserve Fund
These debt service reserves total almost $5 million and are designed to hold funds for payment
of debts and loans made to the District for capital improvement projects (VSFCD, CAFR, 2015).
Comparing the size of a district’s reserve/investment fund to their annual gross revenue is a
common financial metric. Table 4.14, above indicates that total investments are $41.5 million.
In FY 14/15, gross revenue was $30.8 million. The comparative calculation shows that total
investments are equivalent to 1.3 of gross revenue.
Undesignated reserves are called the Unrestricted Net position in VSFCD financial documents.
These total $13.7M (not cash). Essentially all these funds would be designated for operating or
capital reserve (Ms. M Morris, personal communication, December 2016).
Debt and Liabilities
The District’s debt is all associated with its Wastewater Fund. Standard & Poor's, a credit rating
agency, has assigned the District an AA- credit rating. As of June 2015, the District’s long-term
debt burden was $59 million which represents a per capita decreased $34 from last year to $456
(VSFCD, CAFR, 2016). Long-term debt net of premium (discount) is shown in Table 4.15, below.
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Table 4.15: Long-term debt
Description Fiscal Year Ended Amount Increase Percent Increase
June 30, 2015 6/30/2014 (Decrease) (Decrease)
2014 Revenue bonds - net $ 33,089,018 $ 34,277,971 $ (1,188,953) -3.5%
2011 Revenue bonds - net 2,591,818 2,799,545 (207,727) -7.4%
1993 Cert of participation - 11,718,624 13,718,280 (1,999,656) -14.6%
200 8 State Revolving 2,792,753 3,037,308 (244,555) -8.1%
Fund loan
2004 State Revolving 6,503,828 7,230,146 (726,318) -10.0%
Fund loan
Interfund note - wastewater- 2,780,962 3,098,618 (317,656) -10.3%
storm water
Long term liabilities - net $ 59,477,003 $ 64,161,868 $ (4,684,865) -7.3%
Source: VSFCD, CAFR, 2016
In 2015, the district reduced the principal on its debt by $4,230,872.
Rates
VSFCD charges fees for both wastewater and flood control services. The District’s rates cover
the costs of operation, maintenance, and repair (OM&R) and debt financed capital
improvements plus other costs anticipated in connection with its programs. The rates are
consistent with requirements of the State Water Resources Control Board. Rates are set for the
District’s three programs as follows:
Wastewater fund: rate adjustments were approved by the Board of Trustees for fiscal
years beginning July 1, 2012, 2013, and 2014 to fund debt service, maintain a capital
program, keep with rising costs, and in accordance with the District’s Long Term
Financial Plan. The rate adjustments were 2.5% for each of the three fiscal years,
respectively.
Storm water fund: Rates were last set in 1998 at $1.97 per month. A rate equity study
found the rate structure to be inequitable since the rate does account for runoff and
pollutant loadings for customer classifications. A recent ballot initiative updates rates
for the storm water fund with an effective date of July 1, 2015.
Upper lateral fund: This fund’s rates were adjusted during the 2004-05 fiscal year from
.69 cents per month to $1.38 per month. The upper lateral rate is a function of program
demand that remains high.
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Wastewater Rate Details
Wastewater rates provide for the following:
1. regular costs of operation and maintenance,
2. funding capital replacements, improvements, and collection systems rehabilitation,
3. debt service on improvements and upgrades to wastewater infrastructure, and
4. debt coverage requirements in accordance with bonded indebtedness contractual
obligations.
The last formal study of sewer rates was completed in 2000. Since then, rates have been raised
to keep pace with inflation to some degree and not due to capital projects (Ms. Morris, personal
communication, December 2016). For example, sewer rates were last raised in June 2012 at a
public meeting of the Board of Trustees by 2.5 percent annually. Sewer rates are raised only
after other alternative funding sources are considered. A new rate study is currently in
progress. Wastewater rates are $43.35 per month for a single family residence. This is comparable to
neighboring sewer agencies as shown in Table 4.16, below.
Table 4.16: Comparison of Wastewater Rates
Monthly Monthly Monthly
Residential Residential Residential
Wastewater Rate Wastewater Wastewater
(2014-15) Rate (2015-16) Rate (2016-17)
A
Fairfield-Suisun $32.71
Napa 39.15
Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control 43.35
America n Canyon 48.97
Rio Vista 51.60 and 87.92
Benicia 53.26 55.39 56.49
Vacaville 56.61
Sonoma County Water 65.17 through
158.25
Authority (8 districts)
Santa Rosa 101.04
Source: VSFCD, Budget, 2015
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Storm Water Rates
A 2015 ballot measure established storm water rates consistent with the requirements of
Proposition 218 (California Constitution Article XIII, Sections C and D). Residential rates for
storm water services are an annual flat-rate (paid bi-monthly) in one of three categories:
1) high density (multi-family) at $12.46 per unit,
2) single-family standard lots at $23.64 per parcel, and
3) single-family large lots (>10,450 sq. ft.) at $36.70 per parcel.
Commercial/industrial rates are an annual area based parcel fee (paid bi-monthly) in one of
three categories:
1) light runoff load (unimproved lots) at $0.79 per 1,000 sq. ft.,
2) medium runoff load (landscaped lots) at $4.66 per 1,000 sq. ft., and
3) heavy runoff load (impervious surface lots) at $10.25 per 1,000 sq. ft.
When special circumstances exist, the District’s Group IV Special rate may be used to calculate
the annual fee.
In municipal service reviews, LAFCO often assesses whether rates are sufficient to cover
operating expenses, debt service, and planned capital improvements. Bond obligations
sometimes require a district to maintain specific ratios of income to expenses. VSFCD’s Budget
notes that net revenues of the wastewater activity meet the bond covenant test and comply with
the required coverage. Rates for flood control recently passed the scrutiny of a public ballot
initiative.
Findings &Determinations for Financial Ability of Agency to
Provide Services
15. VSFCD has three enterprise funds, the wastewater fund, the storm water fund, and the
upper lateral fund. VSFC also collects a small amount of property taxes. VSFCD is an
enterprise district since most of its revenues are derived from its rate structure.
16. VSFCD’s adopted management and budget policy has been shared with the MSR
authors. This policy addresses budget preparation, fixed asset accounting, investment
of funds, and expense authorization.
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17. The VSFCD Budget is adopted in public meetings on a biennial basis by the District’s
Board of Trustees (not by the City of Vallejo). The fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends
on June 30.
18. Although VSFCD is a separate legal entity, apart from the City of Vallejo, its finances are
a Component Unit of the City of Vallejo. Component units are legally separate
organizations and are utilized for agencies where elected officials of the primary
government are financially accountable.
19. VSFCD’s Board of Trustees receive an audited financial statement on an annual basis.
20. In FY 14/15, total annual revenue was almost $31 million and total annual expense was
almost $30.5 million.
21. During years 2006 to 2012, expenses exceeded revenues and the difference was made
whole from reserve funds. This situation indicates that VSFCD revenues are sensitive to
the state of the local economy. This also indicates that having sufficient reserve funds is
important to VSFCD to help it weather the economically lean years. Additional detail is
provided in Figure 4.12 and Table 4.11.
22. The data presented in this MSR suggests that VSFCD has the financial ability to continue
to provide public services into the future.
4.7: STATUS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR SHARED
FACILITIES
4.6.1. Shared Facilities and Regional Cooperation
The District does not jointly own or share capital facilities or services with other agencies
(VSFCD, 2016). Nor is there any other agency in the District’s sphere of influence that provides
wastewater and flood control services (Solano LAFCo, 2006). The 2006 MSR did not identify
specific opportunities for the District to share facilities with other agencies and no specific
opportunities were identified during the preparation of this MSR. It is recommended that the
District continue to participate in regional planning efforts and be open to new opportunities to
share facilities and to assess these ideas as they arise.
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Although no opportunities have been identified at this time for the District to share facilities
with other public agencies, the District does collaborate with other agencies and organizations
in other ways, including the following:
The District works in conjunction with the Solano County Disaster Council, a coalition of
Solano County safety personnel, to adequately prepare and respond in the event of an
emergency. The District also participates in joint training efforts with the greater area for
emergency response and safety (VSFCD Finance Department, 2016).
The District participates in the City of Vallejo’s General Plan process (VSFCD, 2016).
The District participates in department head meetings with the City of Vallejo (Morton,
2016).
The District participates in executive and staff level interagency meetings twice a month
(Morton, 2016).
The District participates in the following organizations: National Association of Clean
Water Agencies (NACWA), California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA),
Water Environment Federation (WEF), California Water Environment Association
(CWEA), and Bay Area Clean Water Agencies (BACWA) (Morton, 2016).
The District helped organize the formation of the Vallejo Watershed Group (Solano
LAFCo, 2006).
Findings & Determinations for Opportunities for Shared Facilities
23. VSFCD works cooperatively with many different agencies including its regulatory
agencies such as the RWQCB, and other local service providing agencies such as Solano
County and the City of Vallejo. Additionally, the District participates in several
organizations including the National Association of Clean Water Agencies and the
California Association of Sanitation Agencies among others. The District also helped
organize the formation of the Vallejo Watershed Group.
24. VSFCD does not jointly own or share capital facilities or services with other agencies.
There are no other agencies in the District’s sphere of influence that provide wastewater
and flood control services. It is recommended that the District continue to be open to
new opportunities to share facilities and to assess these ideas as they arise.
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25. VSFCD is well managed and operated as evidenced by its compliance with regulatory
permits, open meeting laws and by the numerous awards it has received. Additionally,
VSFCD works cooperatively with other local agencies and organizations.
26. Because the District discharges treated water into a nearby brackish marsh, water
quality is important to the public, wildlife, and to regulators. Therefore, it is
recommended that the District participate in local watershed associations and Integrated
Regional Water Management (IRWM) groups.
4.8: GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
In a municipal service review, LAFCO is required to make a determination about a district’s
government structure and accountability. In California, there are two types of special districts,
as defined in GC 56032.5 and 56044:
Dependent districts: Function as subdivisions of another multipurpose local
government. Board members may be ex-officio member of other governing boards
such as city councils or the board of supervisors.
Independent districts: Have their own governing board and are usually elected directly
by voters or are appointed to fixed terms.
The VSFCD is a dependent district. It is governed by an eight-member Board of Trustees,
composed of the seven- members of the Vallejo City Council and one member from the Solano
County Board of Supervisors. The current Board of Trustee members are identified in Section
4.1. The representative from Solano County Board of Supervisors is appointed annually in
January by the Board of Supervisors (VSFCD Webmaster).
Terms of the Trustees expire at the time of their departure from the City Council or Board of
Supervisors (Solano LAFCo, 2006). The District is a component unit of the City of Vallejo under
accounting rules but is a separate legal entity. The Board sets policy for the District and
appoints the District Manager and Treasurer who serve at the pleasure of the Board (VSFCD
Finance Department, 2016).
The seven Trustees associated with the Vallejo City Council receive $100 per month, regardless
of attendance. The Trustee that is the member-at-large, typically a Solano County Supervisor,
receives $100 per meeting attended (VSFCD, 2015).
Regularly scheduled Board meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every month at 6:00
p.m., at Vallejo City Hall, 555 Santa Clara Street in Vallejo. Additional special meetings are held
as needed. The Board has adopted ‘Rules of Order and Procedure’ by which it governs its
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meetings in compliance with the requirements of California Government Code sections 54950
through 54963 (The Brown Act). The Protocols were last updated in May 12, 2015.
All meetings are publicly posted a minimum of 72 hours prior to the meeting. Postings are
located on public information boards at Vallejo City Hall and the District office. The Board
meeting agenda and supplemental materials are also posted on the District’s website at:
https://www.vsfcd.com/SitePages/minutes_and_agendas.aspx. The agenda for each Board meeting
includes a general public comment period entitled Community Forum for anyone wishing to
address the Board on any matter. All meetings are open to the public in accordance with the
Brown Act.
The District’s website is a communication tool for meeting agendas, minutes, and adopted
resolutions, and provides information about the District’s services and programs. District
customers can complete a customer service survey online, in paper form, or in person (VSFCD,
2016). To keep its customers informed about the District’s activities and services, the District
Public Information Office produces a bimonthly newsletter, The Current. The District also
helped organize the formation of the Vallejo Watershed Group to coordinate efforts of local
government agencies and private citizens to address water quality/environmental concerns at
Lake Chabot and White Slough (Solano LAFCo, 2006).
The Board of Trustees and its representatives appear to comply with the requirements of the
Brown Act, the Political Reform Act, and similar laws. The existing structure of the District,
created by special enabling legislation6 by the California legislature in 1952 by Enabling Act
8934, is sufficient to allow the District to continue service provision in the foreseeable future.
There are no legal or administrative limitations on the District to future service provision
(Solano LAFCo, 2006).
6
A copy of the District’s enabling legislation is available on the District’s website at:
https://www.vsfcd.com/Site_PDFs/DistrictEnablingAct8934.pdf
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4.8.1. Management Efficiencies
The VSFCD’s mission is to provide quality wastewater and flood control services to the Vallejo
community in order to protect the public’s health, safety and the environment. The VSFCD’s
vision is that the District will continue to be a model of customer service, environmental
sensitivity, innovation and regional cooperation (VSFCD Finance Department, 2016).
The District operates under the direction of the Board of Trustees. The District Manager reports
to the Board and is responsible for directing
District operations. The District Manager is the
chief administrative officer responsible for the
District's day-to-day operations in accordance with
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Board policies, approved budget, and legal and
Melissa Morton, District
regulatory compliance. The Treasurer is charged
Manager
with cash and investment management in
450 Ryder Street
accordance with California law, policy, and general Vallejo, CA 94590
direction (VSFCD Finance Department, 2016). mmorton@vsfcd.org
As shown in Figure 4.15, the District Manager
oversees the Management Team consisting of the
District Clerk, HR Administrator, Finance Director,
Safety and Risk Management Director, District Engineer, Field Operations Superintendent,
Plant Operations and Maintenance Director, Environmental Services Director. As of July 1, 2015,
VSFCD had a total staff of 85.95 full-time equivalents (FTE) to manage and operate the
wastewater treatment plant (VSFCD, 2016). This includes VSFCD staff and consultants with
16.96 FTE for Administration, 8.28 FTE for Management, and 60.71 FTE for Wastewater Service
(VSFCD, 2016).
The District implements a successful Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) program which is
necessary to upgrade and replace aging facilities and infrastructure. District staff routinely
inventories its capital assets and performs condition assessments to identify projects to include
in the CIP. The District is also developing an Asset Management Plan (AMP) to guide the
process of identifying best practices and prioritizing maintenance, rehabilitation, and
replacement efforts to ensure longevity of District facilities and infrastructure.
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Strategic Plans & Management Plans
Ideally, all Districts in Solano County would have an updated strategic plan or master plan that
links together goals, objectives, actions, and best management practices. Every five years, the
VSFCD’s public meeting agenda allows time for the Board to consider district-wide strategic
goals. The most recent goal setting session occurred on October 22, 2014 where they developed
the following goals:
Goal 1. Succession Planning
Goal 2. Capital Improvement/Infrastructure Viability
Goal 3. Communication/Public Education and Outreach
Goal 4. Innovation
In addition to agreeing on the above goals, the effort resulted in the development of a 2014/2017
Action Plan7, which lists the responsible parties and key milestone dates.
The District prepares for natural diasters such as flood, earthquake, sea level rise, and more by
the development of a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (LHMP). The LHMP, which is
required by federal law to be eligible for mitigation grant consideration. The District is currently
in the last stages of updating its LHMP as noted on its website at:
https://www.vsfcd.com/SitePages/disasters.aspx .
In June 2015, the District awarded a contract to a consultant to prepare an Asset Management
Program to implement asset management best practices for investment and management
decision making. The life cycle of the District’s infrastructure will be analyzed and tradeoffs
between cost of service and risk of asset failure will be studied.
The development and implementation of a strategic action plan and other management plans
such as VSFCD’s Asset Management Plan and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update are
measures of management efficiency and effectiveness.
7 The District’s Action Plan is available on the District’s website at:
https://www.vsfcd.com/Site_PDFs/Supplemental_Information_2015_02_10.pdf
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District Awards
The District is the recipient of many awards of excellence at the local, state and national levels
for maintaining an efficient, well-run operation. These awards are received from the local
chapter of the California Water Environment Association (CWEA), the state CWEA, the national
Water Environment Federation, and the National Association of Clean Water Agencies
(NACWA). Awards received typically are for plant of the year, collection system of the year,
Burke award for safety, excellence in management recognition, and awards for individual
achievements. The District recently received the NACWA Platinum Award for five continuous
years of “0” violations. The District received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in
Financial Reporting for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report from the Government
Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for the fiscal year 2015. The
current Report for 2016 conforms to Certificate of Achievement program requirements and has
been submitted for award consideration. VSFCD has won many awards for public service
(VSFCD Finance Department, 2016).
Findings & Determinations for Accountability for Community
Service Needs
27. VSFCD is governed by an eight-member Board of Trustees composed of the seven-
members of the Vallejo City Council and one member from the Solano County Board of
Supervisors that serve staggered four-year terms. The VSFCD Board meets at Vallejo
City Hall, 555 Santa Clara Street in Vallejo, on the second Tuesday of the month. VSFCD
meetings are noticed according to the Brown Act and the meetings provide sufficient
opportunities for public comment.
28. The existing structure of the District, created by special enabling legislation by the
California legislature in 1952 by Enabling Act 8934, is sufficient to allow the District to
continue service provision in the foreseeable future. There are no legal or administrative
limitations on the District to future service provision.
29. The District’s boundary and SOI includes 4,666 acres of water or submerged lands that
are part of the San Francisco Estuary/San Pablo Bay, as shown in Figure 4.1. This parcel
(APN 0067-010-010) was included the District’s original 1952 boundary and was
identified in the District’s original 1953 submittal to the CA Board of Equalization. The
District does not provide service to this parcel. Therefore, it is recommended that
LAFCO consider detaching the parcel from the District boundary and SOI.
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Figure 4.15 District Organizational Chart
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4.9: LAFCO POLICIES AFFECTING SERVICE DELIVERY
Cortese-Knox Hertzberg allows LAFCOs to establish policies to implement the law and process
applications. Solano LAFCO has implemented eleven standards, six mandatory standards
which mirror the requirements of CKH, and five discretionary standards. Application of
discretionary standards lies with the Commission. There are no other aspects of wastewater and
storm drainage service required to be addressed in this report by LAFCO policies that would
affect delivery of services.
Finding & Determination: Any Other Matters Related to Service
Delivery as Required by LAFCO Policy
30. There are no other aspects of wastewater or storm drainage service required to be
addressed in this report by LAFCO policies that would affect delivery of services.
4.10: SUMMARY OF MSR FINDINGS & DETERMINATIONS
Based on the information included in this report, the following written determinations make
statements involving the service factors the Commission must consider as part of a municipal
service review.8 The determinations listed below are recommendations from the consultant to
the Commission. The Commission’s final MSR determinations will be part of a Resolution,
which the Commission formally adopts during a public meeting.
Growth and Population Projections
1. The current (year 2016) population of VSFCD is 124,134 permanent residents.
2. Although the population within the City of Vallejo declined during years 2000 to 2010, it
recently has experienced an increase of 1.01% percent.
3. The area within the District’s boundaries does have potential for future growth
especially the City of Vallejo’s specific plan areas. However, in the recent past, the pace
of new growth has been relatively slow. Between the years 2015 to 2040, the population
8 The service factors addressed in this report reflect the requirements of California Government Code §56430(a) as of January
1, 2008.
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within the City of Vallejo (and within the District) is expected to grow by 13,700 persons
(11.6 percent) as listed in Table 4-4.
Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities
4. The median household income within the Vallejo community is $58,472. This is higher
than the DUC threshold MHI of less than $49,546 (80 percent of the Statewide MHI).
5. There are 11 fully and partially surrounded unincorporated islands within the City of
Vallejo and the District. Each of the 11 islands do receive water, wastewater, and fire
services. No deficiency in public services to these areas have been identified.
6. Preliminary indications from Solano County’s Housing Needs Assessment indicate that
Starr Subdivision and Homeacres neighborhood could potentially meet disadvantaged
criteria; however specific financial data was not analyzed in the County’s Assessment.
No health and safety issues have been identified within the unincorporated islands
studied by Solano County.
7. The median household income for census tracts and block groups near the 11
unincorporated islands was studied as listed in Table 4.6. Based on this analysis, at least
a portion of four unincorporated islands do meet the financial threshold to be classified
as DUCs.
8. No health and safety issues have been identified within these four unincorporated
islands. Each of the four islands do receive water, wastewater, and fire services. No
deficiency in public services to these areas have been identified.
9. For low income residents, the District offers a discount on cost of service. The District
publishes public information on the Reduced Rate Program and customers are eligible to
apply provided they meet the requirements of the PG&E CARE Program. The District
uses its property tax revenue to fund the low income program. No health and safety
issues have been identified within the unincorporated islands.
Present and Planned Capacity of Public Facilities
10. The number of sewer connections served by the District is estimated to be 37,804;
approximately 76 percent of the District’s customers are residential uses. There are
approximately 460 commercial and industrial customers, including 5 Significant
Industrial Users (SIUs), served by the District.
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11. New development projects are required to provide storm water facilities as part of
project improvement plans.
12. As a result of the District’s measures to ensure integrity of the wastewater collection
system, VSFCD has significantly reduced Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs) from 73
occurrences in 2006 to 20 in 2015.
13. The treatment plant has sufficient capacity to meet projected growth for the City of
Vallejo and unincorporated areas within District boundaries.
14. The Capital Improvement Plan focuses on improvements for effectiveness of the
maintenance program and to reduce I/I in the sewer collection system, and plans for
projects to correct these deficiencies in a timely manner. Implementation of the CIP
would appear to allow the sewer system to function effectively throughout the plan
period.
Financial Ability of Agency to Provide Services
15. VSFCD has three enterprise funds, the wastewater fund, the storm water fund, and the
upper lateral fund. VSFC also collects a small amount of property taxes. VSFCD is an
enterprise district since most of its revenues are derived from its rate structure.
16. VSFCD’s adopted management and budget policy has been shared with the MSR
authors. This policy addresses budget preparation, fixed asset accounting, investment
of funds, and expense authorization.
17. The VSFCD Budget is adopted in public meetings on a biennial basis by the District’s
Board of Trustees (not by the City of Vallejo). The fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends
on June 30.
18. Although VSFCD is a separate legal entity, apart from the City of Vallejo, its finances are
a Component Unit of the City of Vallejo. Component units are legally separate
organizations and are utilized for agencies where elected officials of the primary
government are financially accountable.
19. VSFCD’s Board of Trustees receives an audited financial statement on an annual basis.
20. In FY 14/15, total annual revenue was almost $31 million and total annual expense was
almost $30.5 million
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21. During years 2006 to 2012, expenses exceeded revenues and the difference was made
whole from reserve funds. This situation indicates that VSFCD revenues are sensitive to
the state of the local economy. This also indicates that having sufficient reserve funds is
important to VSFCD to help it weather the economically lean years. Additional detail is
provided in Figure 4.12 and Table 4.11.
22. .The data presented in this MSR suggests that VSFCD has the financial ability to
continue to provide public services into the future.
Opportunities for Shared Facilities
23. VSFCD works cooperatively with many different agencies including its regulatory
agencies such as the RWQCB, and other local service providing agencies such as Solano
County and the City of Vallejo. Additionally, the District participates in several
organizations including the National Association of Clean Water Agencies and the
California Association of Sanitation Agencies among others. The District also helped
organize the formation of the Vallejo Watershed Group.
24. VSFCD does not jointly own or share capital facilities or services with other agencies.
There are no other agencies in the District’s sphere of influence that provide wastewater
and flood control services. It is recommended that the District continue to be open to
new opportunities to share facilities and to assess these ideas as they arise.
25. VSFCD is well managed and operated as evidenced by its compliance with regulatory
permits, open meeting laws and by the numerous awards it has received. Additionally,
VSFCD works cooperatively with other local agencies and organizations.
26. Because the District discharges treated water into a nearby brackish marsh, water
quality is important to wildlife and to regulators. Therefore, it is recommended that the
District participate in local watershed associations and Integrated Regional Water
Management (IRWM) groups.
Accountability for Community Service Needs
27. VSFCD is governed by an eight-member Board of Trustees composed of the seven-
members of the Vallejo City Council and one member from the Solano County Board of
Supervisors that serve staggered four-year terms. The VSFCD Board meets at Vallejo
City Hall, 555 Santa Clara Street in Vallejo, on the second Tuesday of the month. VSFCD
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meetings are noticed according to the Brown Act and the meetings provide sufficient
opportunities for public comment.
28. The existing structure of the District, created by special enabling legislation by the
California legislature in 1952 by Enabling Act 8934, is sufficient to allow the District to
continue service provision in the foreseeable future. There are no legal or administrative
limitations on the District to future service provision.
29. *The District’s boundary and SOI includes 4,666 acres of water or submerged lands that
are part of the San Francisco Estuary/San Pablo Bay, as shown in Figure 4.1. This parcel
(APN 0067-010-010) was included the District’s original 1952 boundary and was
identified in the District’s original 1953 submittal to the CA Board of Equalization. The
District does not provide service to this parcel. Therefore, it is recommended that
LAFCO consider detaching the parcel from the District boundary and SOI.
Any Other Matters Related to Service Delivery as Required by
LAFCO Policy
30. There are no other aspects of wastewater and flood control service required to be
addressed in this report by LAFCO policies that would affect delivery of services.
4.11: ISSUES WITH RECOMMENDATIONS
This MSR describes the provision of wastewater services by VSFCD to its constituents. No red
flags were found during this analysis. However, one area for continual improvement was
noted and listed in the above determinations with a * (asterisk) symbol. They are also repeated
below in Table 4.17.
Table 4.17: Issues with Recommendations
Determination Issue Recommendation
#
25 The District’s boundary and It is recommended that LAFCO consider
SOI includes 4,666 acres of detaching the parcel from the District
water or submerged lands that boundary and SOI.
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are part of the San Francisco
Estuary/San Pablo Bay, as
shown in Figure 4.1. This
parcel (APN 0067-010-010)
was included the District’s
original 1952 boundary and
was identified in the District’s
original 1953 submittal to the
CA Board of Equalization.
The District does not provide
service to this parcel.
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4.12: REFERENCES
Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG). 2013. “Projections 2013.” Association of Bay
Area Governments.
ABAG et al. 2014. The Context. Plan Bay Area 2040. [Online]. Available at:
http://www.planbayarea.org/the-plan/the-context.html. Accessed July 20, 2016.
City of Vallejo. 1999. Vallejo General Plan. City of Vallejo Planning Commission. Vallejo City
Council.
City of Vallejo. 2005. City of Vallejo: 2005 Municipal Service Review. City of Vallejo Planning
Commission.
City of Vallejo. 2005. Downtown Vallejo Specific Plan. Vallejo City Council.
City of Vallejo. 2007. Mare Island Specific Plan. Vallejo City Council.
City of Vallejo. 2014. “Propel Vallejo – General Plan Update, Project Components.” City of
Vallejo Planning Commission. Vallejo City Council. Web. 25 July 2016.
City of Vallejo. July 2015. Propel Vallejo: General Plan Update, Zoning Code Update: Code
Diagnosis Memo. [Online]. Available at: http://propelvallejo.com/zoning-code-update/.
Accessed July 20, 2016.
Morton, Melissa. 2016. Personal interview by Kateri Harrison, Uma Hinman, and Elliot
Mulberg. June 20.
Smith-Heimer, Janet. 2015. Economic & Market Trends Report. Submitted to Mark Hoffheimer,
Senior Planner. City of Vallejo.
Solano County. April 2015. 2015–2023 Housing Element Update Appendix A: Housing Needs
Assessment. 61-pages. [Online]. Available at:
https://www.solanocounty.com/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?blobid=8762. Accessed July 27,
2016.
Solano LAFCo. November 2006. Solano LAFCo Sewer Municipal Service Review. 45-pages.
Davis, California.
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State of California Controller's Office. 2016. Government Compensation in California. [Online].
Available at: http://publicpay.ca.gov/. Accessed July 14, 2016.
State of California Department of Finance. 2016. “E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for
Cities, Counties, and the State, 2011-2016 with 2010 Census Benchmark.” Web. 20 July
2016.
SWA Group, MacKay & Somps, Fehr + Peers, Goodwin Consulting Group, and BAR Architects.
2013. Solano 360 Final Specific Plan. Prepared for County of Solano, City of Vallejo, and
Solano County Fair Association. Approved by the Solano County Board of Supervisors.
U.S. Census Bureau. 2010. “Vallejo City Quickfacts.” American Factfinder. U.S. Department of
Commerce. Web. 18 July 2016.
U.S. Census Bureau. 2014. “Median Household Income In The Past 12 Months (In 2014 Inflation-
Adjusted Dollars). 2010-2014 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.” American
Factfinder. U.S. Department of Commerce. Web.
http://factfinder.census.gov/faces/nav/jsf/pages/ searchresults.xhtml?refresh=t&keepList=t#none.
Accessed 23October2016.
Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District (VSFCD). June 17, 2016. District Response to
Information Request from the Local Agency Formation Commission of Solano County in
preparation for the 2016 Municipal Service Review. 12-pages. Available at LAFCo’s
office upon request.
Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District (VSFCD). 2015. Vallejo Sanitation and Flood
Control District Code. [Online]. Available at: https://www.vsfcd.com/Site_
PDFs/District_Code_Thru_Supp_17_Entire.pdf. Accessed July 25, 2016.
Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District (VSFCD) Environmental Services Department.
January 29, 2016. Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District Annual Treatment Plant
Summary 2015. 38-pages. Vallejo, California.
Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District (VSFCD) Field Operations Department. 2016.
Revisions to 2006 Solano LAFCo Sewer MSR. 7-pages. Available at LAFCo’s office upon
request.
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Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District (VSFCD) Finance Department. January 2016.
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, A Component Unit of the City of Vallejo,
Years Ended June 30, 2015 With Comparative Amounts for June 30, 2014. 71-pages.
Vallejo, California.
Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District. (VSFCD). Webmaster. Board of Trustees. [Online].
Available at: https://www.vsfcd.com/SitePages/board_trustees.aspx. Accessed July 14, 2016.
Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District (VSFCD). Finance Department. January 12, 2016.
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, A Component Unit of the City of Vallejo for
Years Ended June 30, 2015 With Comparative Amounts for June 30, 2014. 71 pages.
Vallejo, California.
Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District (VSFCD). June 9, 2015. Biennial Budget for Fiscal
Years 2016 and 2017. 166 pages. Vallejo, California. Retreived from
<https://www.vsfcd.com/SitePages/financials.aspx>. Accessed August 23, 2016.
Vavrinek, Trine, Day & Company LLP. Certified Public Accountants. January 4, 2016.
Independent Auditor’s Report. Pleasanton, CA.
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Chapter 5: Comments Received and
Responses to Comments
The Draft MSR/SOI Update was distributed to the two service providers described in this MSR
and it was posted to LAFCo’s website on December 12 2016. The Commission held a public
meeting on the Draft MSR/SOI Update on Monday, December 12, 2016. The public was
encouraged to provide comments for staff to review and incorporate into this Final MSR. No
public comments were received during the public comment period.
Comments Received 5-1
Final Wastewater Services MSR
Chapter 6: Glossary
Annexation: The annexation, inclusion, attachment, or addition of territory to a city or district.
Average base flow (ABF): Flow in the sanitary sewer during dry-weather months, measured
when no appreciable rain is falling. Base flow consists of sanitary flow plus groundwater
infiltration.
Average dry-weather flow (ADWF): The 30-day rolling average wastewater flow from May
through October.
Average wet-weather flow (AWWF): The 30-day rolling average wastewater flow from
November through April.
Best Management Practices: Best management practices are defined as methods or techniques
found to be the most effective and practical means in achieving an objective (such as
minimizing pollution) while making the optimum use of the District’s resources.
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.
Buildout: The maximum development potential when all lands within an area have been
converted to the maximum density allowed under the General Plan.
Board of Directors: The legislative body or governing board of a district.
Board of Supervisors: The elected board of supervisors of a county.
City: Any charter or general law city.
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.
Consolidation: The uniting or joining of two or more districts into a single new successor
district.
Contiguous: In the case of annexation, territory adjacent to an agency to which annexation is
proposed. Territory is not contiguous if the only contiguity is based upon a strip of land
more than 300 feet long and less than 200 feet wide.
Cost avoidance: Actions to eliminate unnecessary costs derived from, but not limited to,
duplication of service efforts, higher than necessary administration/operation cost ratios,
use of outdated or deteriorating infrastructure and equipment, underutilized equipment
or buildings or facilities, overlapping/inefficient service boundaries, inefficient
purchasing or budgeting practices, and lack of economies of scale.
Glossary 6-1
Draft Wastewater Services MSR
Crown (of the sewer): The upper portion of the sewer pipes.
Design flow: The selected flow condition for wastewater collection system design, determined
by adding corresponding peak sanitary flow and peak groundwater infiltration. This is
also referred to as peak dry-weather flow.
Design storm: An abstraction based on historical data that determines the amount of
stormwater inflow and rainfall-dependent infiltration.
Detachment: The removal from a city or district of any portion of the territory of that city or
district.
Development Fee: A fee charged to 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.
Dissolution: The termination of the existence of a district or city and the cessation of all its
corporate powers, except for the purpose of winding up the affairs of the district.
District or special District: An agency of the state, formed pursuant to general law or special
act, for the local performance of governmental or proprietary functions within limited
boundaries. "District" or "special district" includes a county service area. Also is referred
to as a district of limited powers. May include the following: airport district, community
services district, municipal utility district, public utilities district, fire protection district,
harbor district, port district, recreational harbor district, small craft harbor district, resort
improvement district, library district, local hospital district, local health district,
municipal improvement district formed pursuant to any special act, municipal water
district, police protection district, recreation and park district, garbage disposal district,
garbage and refuse disposal district, sanitary district, or county sanitation district.
Dry-weather flow: Wastewater flow monitored during the dry season, occurring May through
October. Consists of sanitary flow and groundwater infiltration.
Excessive infiltration and inflow: The quantities of infiltration/ inflow that can be economically
eliminated from a wastewater collection system by rehabilitation, as determined by a
cost-effective analysis.
Formation: The formation, organization, or creation of a district or city.
Function: Any power granted by law to a local agency or a county to provide designated
governmental or proprietary services or facilities for the use, benefit, or protection of all
persons or property.
Functional revenues: Revenues generated from direct services or associated with specific
services, such as a grant or statute, and expenditures.
Glossary 6-2
Draft Wastewater Services MSR
General plan: A document containing a statement of development policies including a diagram
and text setting forth the objectives of the plan. The general plan must include certain
state mandated elements related to land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open-
space, noise, and safety.
General revenues: Revenues not associated with specific services or retained in an enterprise
fund.
Groundwater: Water under the earth’s surface, often confined to aquifers capable of supplying
wells and springs.
Independent Special District: Any special district having a legislative body all of whose
members are elected by registered voters or landowners within the district, or whose
members are appointed to fixed terms, and excludes any special district having a
legislative body consisting, in whole or in part, of ex officio members who are officers of
a county or another local agency or who are appointees of those officers other than those
who are appointed to fixed terms. "Independent special district" does not include any
district excluded from the definition of district contained in §56036.
Infiltration: The water entering a sewer system and service connections from the ground,
through such means as, but not limited to, defective pipes, pipe joints, connections, or
manhole walls. Infiltration does not include, and is distinguished from, inflow.
Infiltration and inflow (I&I): The collective term used to describe the extraneous flow in a
wastewater collection system from both rainfall-dependent infiltration and inflow or
groundwater infiltration.
Infrastructure: Public services and facilities, such as pipes, canals, levees, water-supply
systems, other utility, systems, and roads.
LAFCo: Local Agency Formation Commission.
Local accountability and governance: A style of public agency decision making, operation and
management that includes an accessible staff, elected or appointed decision-making
body and decision making process, advertisement of, and public participation in,
elections, publicly disclosed budgets, programs, and plans, solicited public participation
in the consideration of work and infrastructure plans; and regularly evaluated or
measured outcomes of plans, programs or operations and disclosure of results to the
public.
Local agency: A city, county, or special district or other public entity, which provides public
services.
Management Efficiency: The organized provision of the highest quality public services with
the lowest necessary expenditure of public funds. An efficiently managed entity (1)
promotes and demonstrates implementation of continuous improvement plans and
strategies for budgeting, managing costs, training and utilizing personnel, and customer
service and involvement, (2) has the ability to provide service over the short and long
Glossary 6-3
Draft Wastewater Services MSR
term, (3) has the resources (fiscal, manpower, equipment, adopted service or work
plans) to provide adequate service, (4) meets or exceeds environmental and industry
service standards, as feasible considering local conditions or circumstances, (5) and
maintains adequate contingency reserves.
Merger: The termination of the existence of a district, by the assumption of the district's
responsibilities by a city.
Municipal services: The full range of services that a public agency provides, or is authorized to
provide, except general county government functions such as courts, special services
and tax collection. As understood under the CKH Act, this includes all services provided
by Special Districts under California law.
Municipal Service Review (MSR): A study designed to determine the adequacy of
governmental services being provided in the region or sub-region. Performing service
reviews for each city and special district within the county may be used by LAFCO,
other governmental agencies, and the public to better understand and improve service
conditions.
Ordinance: A law or regulation set forth and adopted by a governmental authority.
Peak flow: Maximum measured daily flow. Commonly measured in cubic feet per second
(cfs). Typically occurs during wet-weather events and can also be referred to as peak
wet-weather flow.
Peaking Factor: The ratio of peak hourly wet-weather flow to base flow.
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).
pH: A measure of the relative acidity or alkalinity of water. Water with a pH of 7 is neutral;
lower pH levels indicate increasing acidity, while pH levels higher than 7 indicate
increasingly basic solutions.
Plan of reorganization: A plan or program for effecting reorganization and which contains a
description of all changes of organization included in the reorganization and setting
forth all terms, conditions, and matters necessary or incidental to the effectuation of that
reorganization.
Potable Water: Water of a quality suitable for drinking.
Principal act: In the case of a district, the law under which the district was formed and, in the
case of a city, the general laws or a charter, as the case may be.
Principal LAFCO for municipal service review: The LAFCO with the lead responsibility for a
municipal service review. Lead responsibility can be determined pursuant to the CKH
Act §56388 and is typically, the LAFCO in the Principal County with the greatest
assessed value. See also definition of a Principal LAFCO as it applies to government
Glossary 6-4
Draft Wastewater Services MSR
organization or reorganization actions, by negotiation, or by agreement among two or
more LAFCOs.
Proceeding: A course of action taken at a public meeting.
Public agency: The state or any state agency, board, or commission, any city, county, city and
county, special district, or other political subdivision, or any agency, board, or
commission of the city, county, city and county, special district, or other political
subdivision.
Rainfall-dependent infiltration and inflow (RDI/I): Rainfall runoff from both infiltration and
inflow sources that enter the wastewater collection system during and shortly after a
rain event. RDI/I consists of stormwater inflow and rainfall-dependent infiltration.
Rate restructuring: Rate restructuring does not refer to the setting or development of specific
rates or rate structures. During a municipal service review, LAFCO may compile and
review certain rate related data, and other information that may affect rates, as that data
applies to the intent of the CKH Act (§56000, §56001, §56301), factors to be considered
(§56668), SOI determinations (§56425) and all required municipal service review
determinations (§56430). The objective is to identify opportunities to positively impact
rates without adversely affecting service quality or other factors to be considered.
Reorganization: Two or more changes of organization initiated in a single proposal.
Responsible LAFCO: The LAFCO of a county other than the Principal County that may be
impacted by recommendations, determinations or subsequent proposals elicited during
a municipal service review being initiated or considered by the Lead LAFCO.
Retained earnings: The accumulated earnings of an enterprise or intragovernmental service
fund which have been retained in the fund and are not reserved for any specific purpose
(debts, planned improvements, and contingency/emergency).
Reserve: (1) For governmental type funds, an account used to earmark a portion of fund
balance, which is legally or contractually restricted for a specific use or not appropriable
for expenditure. (2) For proprietary type/enterprise funds, the portion of retained
earnings set aside for specific purposes. Unnecessary reserves are those set aside for
purposes that are not well defined or adopted or retained earnings that are not
reasonably proportional to annual gross revenues.
Service lateral: A sewer connecting a building or house to the mainline sewer.
Service review: A study and evaluation of municipal service(s) by specific area, subregion or
region culminating in written determinations regarding seven specific evaluation
categories.
Sewage: Sewage is the wastewater released by residences, businesses and industries in a
community. Typically it is 99.94 percent water, with only 0.06 percent of the wastewater
Glossary 6-5
Draft Wastewater Services MSR
dissolved and suspended solid material. The cloudiness of sewage is caused by
suspended particles which in untreated sewage ranges from 100 to 350 mg/l.
Specific plan: A policy statement and implementation tool that is used to address a single
project or planning problem. Specific plans contain concrete standards and development
criteria that supplement those of the general plan.
Sphere of influence (SOI): A plan for the probable physical boundaries and service area of a
local agency, as determined by the LAFCO.
Sphere of influence determinations: In establishing, amending, or updating a sphere of
influence, the Commission must consider five written determinations related to present
and planned land uses, need and capacity of public facilities, adequacy of public services
that the agency provides, the existence of social and economic communities of interest,
including disadvantaged unincorporated communities, and the effect of LAFCO
policies.
Stormwater runoff: Rainwater which does not infiltrate into the soil and runs off the land.
Subject agency: Each district or city for which a change of organization is proposed or
provided in a reorganization or plan of reorganization.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): A quantitative measure of the residual minerals dissolved in
water that remains after evaporation of a solution. Usually expressed in milligrams per
liter.
Treated water: Raw water which has been treated for human consumption through secondary
or tertiary processes at a water treatment plan (WTP).
Watershed: An area of land that drains water, sediment and dissolved materials to a common
receiving body or outlet. The term is not restricted to surface water runoff and includes
interactions with subsurface water. Watersheds vary from the largest river basins to just
acres or less in size. In urban watershed management, a watershed is seen as all the land
which contributes runoff to a particular water body.
Zoning: The primary instrument for implementing the general plan. Zoning divides a
community into districts or "zones" that specify the permitted/prohibited land uses.
Glossary 6-6
Final Wastewater Services MSR
Chapter 7: Acknowledgments
Assistance and Support
Several people contributed information that was utilized in this Municipal Service Review
Update. Solano LAFCo and SWALE Inc. wish to acknowledge the support received from the
following individuals and organizations.
LAFCo Staff Rosanne Chamberlain, Interim Executive
Officer
Elliot Mulberg, Former Executive Officer
Michelle McIntyre, Analyst
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District Gregory Baatrup, General Manager
Meg Herston, Env Compliance Engineer
Taylon Sortor, Assistant General Manager
Vallejo Sanitation Flood Control District Melissa Morton, District Manager
Holly Charlety, District Clerk
Report Preparers
A team of consultants authored this MSR Update and provided an independent analysis. The
expertise and contributions provided by this consulting team are greatly appreciated. The
names and roles of the individual experts responsible for writing this MSR are provided below.
SWALE Inc.
Kateri Harrison, Project Manager, Co-Author
Andrew Dellas, Socio-Economics of VSFCD
Amanda Ross, Socio-Economics of FSSD
Uma Hinman Consulting Uma Hinman, Co-Author, Owner
Larkyn Feiler, Co-Author, Planner
Robertson-Bryan Inc. Art O’Brien, Engineer/Technical Reviewer
Baracco & Associates Bruce Baracco, Project Advisor
Acknowledgements 7-1
Appendices
This MSR Update for Wastewater Services by Solano LAFCO includes several appendices as follows:
Appendix 1 Wastewater Regulations
Appendix 2 FSSD District Brochure
Appendix 3 VSFCD Timeline
Appendix 4 Solano County Economic Forecast by Caltrans
Appendix 5 Drainage Maintenance Agreement Among the Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District, the
City of Fairfield, and the City of Suisun City Compiled, as amended, through
January 23, 1995
Final Wastewater Services MSR
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations
REGULATIONS FOR WASTEWATER SYSTEMS
Both state and federal regulatory authority exists for the control of water quality in surface
waters of California. Under the Clean Water Act (CWA), the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) regulates municipal and industrial effluent discharges to navigable waters through the
issuance of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. The basic
approach used in both state and federal processes is 1) to designate beneficial uses to be
protected, 2) to set water quality objectives that are protective of the most sensitive uses, and 3)
to control municipal, industrial, and other sources to meet these objectives.
Federal Wastewater Treatment Regulations
Clean Water Act
The Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) is the federal law that governs and authorizes
water quality control activities by the EPA. Pursuant to federal law, the EPA has published
water quality regulations under Volume 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations (40 CFR). The
CWA regulates water pollution through two different and supplementary approaches:
Water quality and technology-based standards; and
Section 303 of the CWA requires states to adopt water quality standards for all
surface waters of the United States.
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations ………………………………………………………………………A1-1
The two approaches to regulating water pollution are implemented through the use of
discharge permits, which contain mass or concentration-based effluent limits for the pollutants
in the permittee’s wastewater. These approaches are applied to pollutant dischargers through
the implementation of the national wastewater discharge permitting program set up under the
CWA. The CWA established national goals to eliminate pollutant discharges to navigable
waters and to assure that all navigable waters would be fishable and swimmable.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
The NPDES permit system was established under section 402 of the CWA to regulate municipal
and industrial discharges to surface waters of the United States. The discharge of wastewater to
surface waters is prohibited unless an NPDES permit has been issued which allows that
discharge. Each NPDES permit contains limits on allowable concentrations and/or mass
emissions of pollutants contained in the discharge. Under the NPDES program, dischargers are
required to monitor and provide reports on compliance with their permit limits. These reports,
formally titled Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs), are submitted to the appropriate
regulatory agency, and they describe water quality data and analysis. The regulatory agency or
any interested citizen can review this data to determine whether or not the discharger has
complied with its NPDES permit requirements, and, if appropriate, pursue action to enforce
compliance.
Stormwater: Areas within Solano County are subject to the NPDES stormwater permit
regulations, and are subject to the Municipal Regional Stormwater NPDES Permit, Order No.
R2-2015-0049, NPDES Permit No. CAS612008 (the “2015 Permit” or “Permit”). The 2015 Permit
regulates the discharge of stormwater runoff from the municipal separate storm sewer systems
(“MS4s”) and other designated stormwater discharges from municipalities and flood
management agencies in Alameda County, Contra Costa County, San Mateo County, Santa
Clara County, and the Cities of Fairfield, Suisun City, and Vallejo and the Vallejo Sanitation and
Flood Control District in Solano County. The purpose of the stormwater permitting program is
to prevent pollution in local waterways. Stormwater can adversely impact avian, aquatic, and
plant life in receiving waters and can cause serious human health impacts. For example, high
mercury levels in the Bay make regular consumption of fish unsafe. Urban stormwater runoff is
one of the largest sources of pollution in San Francisco Bay and its tributaries. On April 1, 2016,
FSSD prepared a Watersheds and Management Areas Plan1 for Polychlorinated Biphenyls
(PCBs) and Mercury (Hg) and submitted it to the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality
Control Board (Regional Board) by the Fairfield-Suisun Urban Runoff Management Program
(FSURMP), as required by Provisions C.11.a.iii.(1) and C.12.a.iii.(1) of the Municipal Regional
Stormwater NPDES Permit (MRP) (Order R2-2015-049). The Vallejo Sanitation and Flood
Control District also submitted a similar plan2 to the Board on April 1, 2016.
Wastewater: The California Regional Water Quality Control Board is responsible for
implementing the NPDES permit system as it pertains to wastewater discharge. Fairfield
1
The entire FSSD Plan is available online at: http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/sanfranciscobay/
water_issues/programs/stormwater/Municipal/wma/C.11-12.a.iii%20Progress%20Rpt%20FSURMP.pdf
2 The VSFCD Mercury And PCBs Control Measures Implementation Status Report is available online at:
http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/sanfranciscobay/water_issues/programs/stormwater/Municipal/wma/C.11-
12.a.iii%20Progress%20Rpt%20VSFCD_033116.pdf
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations …………………………………………………………………A1-2
Suisun Sewer District’s WWTP operates under Order No. R2-
2015-0013 (NPDES No. CA0038024). Vallejo Sanitation and
Flood Control District’s wastewater treatment plant operates
under Permit Order No. R2-2012-0017 and National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit No.
CA0037699).
Enforcement of NPDES guidelines and permits in Solano County falls within jurisdiction of the
San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and is subject to review by
the EPA Regional Administrator (EPA Region IX, San Francisco Office). In addition, the
RWQCB regulates activities involving discharges to land or groundwater from diffused sources.
A Report of Waste Discharge must be filed with the CVRWQCB to obtain a Waste Discharge
Requirement (WDR) for these types of non-surface water discharge.
Congress amended the CWA in 1987 to include non-point source pollutants. Non-point source
pollutants are often chemicals from lawns or gardens, automobile residues, urban runoff, or
household cleaning agents or compounds. Non-point source pollution can also include runoff
from agricultural uses. Most non-point source pollutants enter the wastewater stream and the
water supply in large quantities and sudden surges, largely due to storm events. Although the
EPA has established NPDES requirements for storm water, control of this type of pollution has
proven to be difficult and could require upgrades to existing wastewater treatment plants. On
August 12, 2015, the EPA3 approved SWRCB’s Six-Year Plan (2014-2020) with Regional Water
Quality Control Boards. These new regulations may further affect the wastewater agencies in
Solano County, especially those with high storm water infiltration rates.4
Section 303(d) Impaired Waters List and TMDLs
Under Section 303(d) of the CWA, states are required to develop lists of water bodies which will
not attain water quality objectives after implementation of required levels of treatment by point
source dischargers (municipalities and industries) (40 C.F.R. §130.7(b)(4)). For example, the
EPA and RWQCB are developing a TMDL for dissolved oxygen in Suisun Marsh. See
SFRWQCB website at: http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/sanfranciscobay/
water_issues/programs/TMDLs/suisunmarshtmdl.shtml for additional details.
National Toxics Rule
The EPA established the National Toxics Rules (NTR) to create numeric criteria for priority
toxic pollutants for California and 13 other states and territories that were not in complete
compliance with the CWA. For California, the NTR established water quality standards for
protection of aquatic life and/or human health for 36 pollutants for which water quality criteria
exist, but which were not covered under California’s statewide water quality regulations.
3 EPA’s approval letter for the Six Year Plan is available on-line at:
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/nps/docs/plans_policies/usepa_approval_2014to202020.pdf
4 State Water Resources Control Board. Nonpoint Source Pollution (NPS) Control Program.
www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/nps.
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations …………………………………………………………………A1-3
California Toxics Rule
The Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) is the federal law that governs and authorizes
water quality control activities by the EPA. Pursuant to federal law, the EPA has the NTR. There
are 126 constituents listed in the California Toxics Rule (CTR) criteria, which include the
previously issued NTR criteria for California. Some of the key elements of the CTR include:
Amended numeric standards for 30 toxic pollutants and added new criteria for 8 toxic
pollutants to protect aquatic life and human health uses for water bodies.
Dissolved-based standards for most trace metals and endorsement of the use of
translator mechanisms for determination of local metals objectives.
Provisions for compliance schedules to provide time for permittees to meet the new
toxics standards.
Provisions for mixing zones when calculating toxic constituent effluent limitations.
Use of interim effluent limits to provide time for dischargers to take actions to meet final
limits.
The EPA promulgated numeric water quality criteria for priority toxic pollutants and other
water quality standards for waters in the State of California pursuant to section 303(c)(2)(B) of
the CWA if those pollutants could be reasonably expected to interfere with the designated uses
of states' waters. Although California had adopted numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants
in 1992, the courts ordered California to rescind these water quality control plans in 1994 and
the new water quality criteria rule, known as the California Toxics Rule (CTR), temporarily
replaced the standards adopted in 1991. The CTR established:
Ambient aquatic life criteria for 23 priority toxics;
Ambient human health criteria for 57 priority toxics; and
Compliance schedule provision.
Under the CTR various regional water quality control boards will issue schedules of compliance
for new or revised NPDES permit limits based on the federal criteria when certain conditions
are met. Currently each basin plan, as prepared by the regional water quality control board,
contains a water quality criterion that all waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in
concentrations that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or
aquatic life. This has been contested by local jurisdictions all over California since it is expected
to add significantly to the cost of wastewater treatment.
EPA contends that since California is implementing EPA’s current regulations, the CTR will not
impose any incremental costs and that the water quality criterion does not directly create
economic impacts. EPA staff notes that California has some discretion to develop mechanisms
that could result in more flexibility for local areas (e.g., site-specific criteria, phased TMDL
program).
For Solano County, the San Francisco RWQCB does not require a separate and specific CTR
permit. The wastewater agencies that discharge to surface waters were required to complete a
number (depending on whether discharger is major or minor, municipal or industrial) of
rounds of sampling under the CTR. Recently written permits include effluent limitations based
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations …………………………………………………………………A1-4
on the results of the CTR samples; future permits will identify specific pollutants and limits
based on current testing.
California Wastewater Treatment Regulations
The California Water Code is the principal state regulation governing the use of water resources
within the State of California. This law controls, among other issues, water quality protection
and management, and management of water-oriented agencies. Division 7 of the California
Water Code, commonly referred to as the Porter-Cologne Act, is the principal mechanism for
regulation of water quality and pollution issues within California. This act established a
regulatory program to protect the water quality and beneficial uses of all state waters. The
Porter-Cologne Act also established the State Water Resources Control Board and California
Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCB) as principal state agencies responsible for
water quality control. The SWRCB has divided California into nine regions with Solano County
located in the San Francisco Bay RWQCB.
The Porter-Cologne Act grants the SWRCB and regional offices broad powers to protect water
quality and is the primary vehicle for implementation of California’s responsibilities under the
federal CWA. These broad powers include the authority and responsibility to adopt plans and
policies, to regulate discharges to surface and groundwater, to regulate waste disposal sites and
to require cleanup of hazardous materials and other pollutants. The Porter-Cologne Act also
includes reporting requirements for unintended discharges of any hazardous substance,
sewage, or oil/petroleum product.
The San Francisco Bay RWQCB, as with all other regional boards, must formulate and adopt a
water quality plan for its region which must conform to the Porter-Cologne Act. The Porter-
Cologne Act also provides that a regional office, such as the San Francisco Bay RWQCB, may
include within its regional plan water discharge prohibitions applicable to local conditions,
areas, and types of waste. The regional offices are also authorized to enforce discharge
limitations, take actions to prevent violations, and conduct investigations about the quality of
any of the waters of the state. Civil and criminal penalties are applicable to persons who violate
the requirements of the Porter-Cologne Act or SWRCB/RWQCB orders.
The Porter-Cologne Act also requires local governments to notify their regional office of the
filing of tentative subdivision maps of six (6) or more family units unless the development
discharges waste into a community sewer system. It also requires that any person discharging
or proposing to discharge waste, even individual septic systems for single-family residences, to
file a report with the regional offices. For more than 20 years, the San Francisco Bay RWQCB
has waived the filing of those reports for individual septic systems in Solano County since the
County’s Department of Environmental Health (EH) had adopted substantially similar policies
and ordinances5 regulating waste discharge. However, local jurisdictions in Solano County are
still required to notify the San Francisco Bay RWQCB of development with six units or more.
5 Solano County Sewage Standards in Chapter 6.3 of the County Ordinance is available on-line at:
https://www.solanocounty.com/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?blobid=7909
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations …………………………………………………………………A1-5
Other state agencies with jurisdiction or involvement in water quality regulation in California
include the Department of Public Health (DPH) for drinking water regulations and water
reclamation criteria, the Department of Pesticide Regulation, the Department of Fish and Game,
and the Office of Environmental Health and Hazard Assessment.
California Storm Drainage & Flood Control Regulations
SB 985 addresses Runoff recapture and requires that state and local agencies regulating
stormwater diversion systems to identify opportunities for capturing that runoff -- including
summer season runoff -- for some form of reuse.
Local Wastewater Regulations
The Cities of Fairfield and Suisun City have policies and procedures consistent with the San
Francisco Bay RWQCB recommendation for connection to a public wastewater system in
urbanized areas. Specifically, both cities generally require areas receiving sewer service to be
annexed to the city.
Wastewater Solids Regulations
Solids generated at a wastewater treatment facility comprise screenings, grit, primary or raw
sludge (PS) and secondary or waste activated sludge (WAS). The screenings and grit are
typically dewatered and disposed in a landfill. Sludge generated by a wastewater treatment
facility is defined as biosolids once beneficial use criteria, as determined by compliance with
EPA regulations, have been achieved through stabilization processes. Stabilization processes are
described as those that help reduce pathogens and reduce vector attraction.
Several federal, state, and local regulations are in place that influence whether biosolids from
municipal wastewater treatment plants can be reused or disposed of. Increased concerns and
debate over biosolids disposal and its associated environmental impacts have led to more
stringent revisions and amendments for many of these regulations. Continuing changes in
regulations affecting biosolids management make a flexible management program essential.
Federal, state, and local agencies are responsible for regulating biosolids beneficial
reuse/disposal. The authority of each agency varies based on the beneficial reuse/disposal
methods employed. However, overall guidelines are established by the EPA. These guidelines
are in turn implemented by state and local governments. Many state and local agencies in
California have developed additional rules, guidelines, and criteria for biosolids management.
In order to implement the long-term biosolids permitting program, required by the Water
Quality Act of 1987, the EPA initiated two rule makings. The first rulemaking established
requirements and procedures for including biosolids management in NPDES permits,
procedures for granting state biosolids management programs primacy over federal programs,
or for federal programs to implement biosolids permits if a state so chooses.
The second rulemaking proposed to regulate and control biosolids permitting was 40 CFR Part
503, Standards for the Use and Disposal of Sewage Sludge. This rule addresses three general
categories of beneficial reuse/disposal of biosolids including:
Land application of sewage sludge for beneficial use of organic content;
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations …………………………………………………………………A1-6
Surface disposal of biosolids in a monofill, surface impoundment, or other dedicated
site; and
Incineration of sewage sludge with, or without, auxiliary fuel.
Future Regulatory Considerations
This section provides insight into the future regulatory considerations that may affect County
sewer systems’ effluent discharges. Identifying future regulatory trends is critical for the
following reasons:
Developing treatment scenarios and alternatives;
Planning for process and layout requirements for future regulatory compliance; and
Making budget considerations for major design and construction projects.
Identifying future pollutants of concern (POCs), such as metals, nutrients, and/or pathogens,
will help to develop alternatives that are flexible and can be easily expanded or upgraded to
treat future POCs. For example, planning may include reserving space in the site layout for
nutrient reduction, tertiary filtration, advanced oxidation, or an alternative disinfection method
that would provide treatment of future POCs.
Nutrients, including nitrogen and phosphorus, are the leading cause of impairments to the
nation’s surface waters and as a result are receiving greater regulatory scrutiny regarding their
contribution to the overall quality of the nation’s receiving waters. Although appropriate
amounts of nutrients are vital for the health and proper functioning of water bodies, excessive
nutrient concentrations can cause water quality degradation.
Nationwide Nutrient Criteria
In November 2007, the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) filed a petition with the
EPA to require that nutrient removal be included in the definition of secondary treatment. The
petition stated that “there are many [biological processes] which can achieve total phosphorus
levels of 1.0 milligrams per liter (mg/L) as a monthly average, and a total nitrogen of 6 to 8 mg/L
as an annual average” (NRDC et al, 2007).
In response to the petition by NRDC, the National Association of Clean Water Agencies
(NACWA) wrote to the EPA in February 2008, September 2009, and June 2010 urging the EPA
to deny the petition to modify the secondary treatment regulations for several legal, technical,
and political reasons including but not limited to the potentially exorbitant cost to publically
owned treatment works and the inappropriateness of establishing national limits for local and
regional water quality issues (NACWA, 2008; NACWA, 2009). In October 2009, the EPA stated
they were actively analyzing the data and information to prepare a report and preliminary
response to the NRDC petition. They stated they would consider NACWA, other stakeholders,
and all information carefully before taking action on the NRDC petition (U.S. EPA, 2009a).
Due to the scientific uncertainties associated with the development of numeric nutrient criteria
and the magnitude of the expected costs of compliance, nutrient water quality policies are very
controversial and have sparked several legal actions across the country. The State of Florida has
become the initial focus of environmental groups’ efforts to push the EPA to develop federal
numeric nutrient criteria to be imposed on the states. The EPA has agreed to a consent decree in
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations …………………………………………………………………A1-7
the environmental suit, and has made a determination that numeric nutrient standards are
necessary in Florida. Proposed criteria for total nitrogen and total phosphorus were released in
January 2010. This action is possibly precedential, and may result in environmental groups
suing the EPA to impose nutrient criteria in other areas of the country.
State of California Nutrient Numeric Endpoints
In addition to the increasingly stringent regulation of nutrients, there is a trend towards
increasing regulation of emerging microconstituents and bioaccumulative pollutants in treated
effluent discharges.
Microconstituents and Bioaccumulative Constituents
Microconstituent, also referred to as “contaminants of emerging concern” (CECs) by the EPA
Office of Water, are substances that have been detected in surface waters and the environment
and may potentially cause deleterious effects on aquatic life and the environment at relevant
concentrations. Microconstituents include:
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs;
used in flame retardants, furniture foam, plastics, etc.) and other organic contaminants.
Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), including a wide suite of human
prescribed drugs, over-the-counter medications, bactericides, sunscreens, and synthetic
musks.
Veterinary medicines such as antimicrobials, antibiotics, anti-fungals, growth promoters,
and hormones.
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including synthetic estrogens and androgens,
naturally occurring estrogens, as well as many other compounds capable of modulating
normal hormonal functions and steroidal synthesis in aquatic organisms.
Nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes or nano-scale particulate titanium dioxide.
Bioaccumulative constituents are substances that are taken up by organisms at faster rates than
the organisms can remove them. As a result, these constituents accumulate in the organism and
the food chain, and can remain in the environment for long periods of time. Mercury,
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and dioxins are some bioaccumulative constituents that are
being increasingly regulated.
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations …………………………………………………………………A1-8
Monitoring requirements for these trace pollutants are increasing, including requirements to
analyze constituents at lower detection limits. It is likely that water quality criteria followed by
new effluent limits will be added to permits. Implementation of CEC standards is not expected
to be imminent as the EPA is currently focused on assessing the potential impact CECs have on
the environment and human health.
The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) is in the process of developing statewide
policies for nutrients. The SWRCB held a scoping meeting in October 2011 to seek input on
content for a proposed Nutrient Numeric Endpoint
(NNE) framework and policy for inland surface
waters.
California State Recycled Water Policy
The SWRCB adopted a Recycled Water Policy (RW
Policy) in 2009 and updated in 2013 to establish more
uniform requirements for water recycling
throughout the State and to streamline the permit
application process in most instances6. The RW
Policy includes a mandate that the State increase the
use of recycled water over 2002 levels by at least
200,000 acre-feet per year (AFY) by 2020 and by at
least 300,000 AFY by 2030. It also includes goals for
stormwater reuse and conservation and potable
water offsets by recycled water. The onus for
achieving these mandates and goals is placed on
both recycled water purveyors and potential users.
Since the recycled water project permit process is
streamlined, projects will not be required to include
a monitoring component. If any regulations arise
from new knowledge of risks associated with CECs,
then projects will be given compliance schedules. Regulations are not expected to arise in the
imminent future.
6 Details are at the State Water Board website at www.swrcb.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/water_recycling_policy/.
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations …………………………………………………………………A1-9
REFERENCES
Alameda County Water District et. al. September 2013. San Francisco Bay Area Integrated
Regional Water Management Plan. 973-pages. Authored by Kennedy/Jenks Consultants
in consultation with ESA, and Kearns & West. Available on-line at:
http://bairwmp.org/docs/2013-bairwm-plan-update/2013-final-plan/San%20Francisco%20Bay%
20Area%20IRWMP%20Final_September%202013.pdf
City of Suisun City. Sewer System Management Plan, Feb 2014. 106-pages Available on-line at:
http://www.suisun.com/wp-content/files/Elements_1-11_-_Sewer_System_ Management_Plan_-
_2014.pdf.
State Water Resources Control Board. 2010 Integrated Report (Clean Water Act Section 303(d)
List / 305(b) Report).
State Water Resources Control Board. Nonpoint Source Pollution (NPS) Control Program.
www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/nps.
Appendix 1: Wastewater Regulations …………………………………………………………………A1-10
FFaaiirrffiieelldd--SSuuiissuunn SSeewweerr DDiissttrriicctt
Board of Directors:
Pete Sanchez, President ● Catherine Moy, Vice President
Pam Bertani ● Jane Day ● Mike Hudson ● Harry Price
Mike Segala ● Chuck Timm ● Rick Vaccaro ● Lori Wilson
A. Preliminary Treatment B. Primary Treatment C. Intermediate Treatment
Debris and grit that are harmful to downstream The primary clarifiers at the head of the The oxidation towers and intermediary
equipment are removed with bar screens and facility remove heavier solids through set- clarifiers remove soluble organic matter.
degritting equipment. Influent flow is tling.
measured and recorded at this location.
D. Secondary Treatment E. Tertiary Treatment
Secondary treatment is accomplished in the aeration tanks and secondary clarifiers. Bacteria Filters provide a polishing step to remove
consume organic matter in the intermediate treatment effluent, generating an ‘activated’ the few suspended particles remaining in
sludge. To survive, bacteria need oxygen that is provided in the aeration tanks. Secondary the secondary clarifier effluent.
clarifiers remove the activated sludge through settling.
F. Ultraviolet Disinfection (UV) G. Final Effluent Storage H. Anaerobic Digestion
UV light destroys the genetic makeup of Final effluent can be discharged directly Solids removed in the clarifiers are thickened
pathogenic organisms to prevent the spread of into the Suisun Marsh, or temporarily and then digested in a closed vessel.
waterborne diseases to downstream users and the stored in large, earthen reservoirs for later Digesters provide an environment to reduce
environment. use in irrigation or utility applications. the organic matter and disease-causing
organisms. Methane is produced as the
solids are digested and is used as a fuel for
on-site electrical generators.
J. Flow Equalization
Flow equalization facilities are used to divert
and temporarily store incoming flows during
high flow, wet weather periods. The stored
wastewater is routed back to the plant for
treatment.
I. Dewatering
The digested solids are pumped to the
dewatering building or solar drying beds,
where excess water is removed.
Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District
1010 Chadbourne Road
Fairfield, CA 94534
(707)429-8930
www.fssd.com
The Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District oversees wastewater collection and
treatment, water recycling, and stormwater management services in a
41-square-mile area of Solano County, California. The service area encompasses
FLOWS AND LOADING
the cities of Fairfield and Suisun City as well as one of the nation’s most
strategically important military installations, Travis Air Force Base.
Average Daily Flow:
The District owns and operates a system of sanitary sewers and pumping stations 12.2 million gallons per day
that serves 135,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers and
government Agencies. Major industries includes Anheuser-Busch Brewery, Travis Biosolids Disposal:
Air Force Base, and Super Store Industries. Households, retail businesses, major 10,400 wet tons annually
food and beverage producers, light industries, manufacturers and vital military
Suspended Solids Removed:
Operations depend upon this service.
99.5% of incoming solids
The District’s collection system consists of 13 pump stations and a 70-mile network
of 12 to 48 inch diameter sewer pipes that collect and transport sanitary waste to a Dry Weather Capacity:
modern, efficient wastewater treatment plant. The treatment facilities, which 23.7 million gallons per day
occupy about 150 acres, replaced three older plants in 1976 and have undergone
major renovation and expansion to keep pace with the region’s population and Irrigation/Utility Water Output:
economic growth, as well as technological advancements in the wastewater 193 million gallons
industry.
The District’s mission is to safeguard public health and the environment. Just south
POWER
of the District’s boundary is the sensitive Suisun Marsh, which is the nation’s
largest brackish water marsh as well as the largest wetland on the Pacific Coast. Consumed:
This 116,000-acre region not only supports abundant plant life but also serves as a 11,642 MWh annually
stopover for up to 1.5 million migratory birds traversing the Pacific Flyway each
year. Protecting public and environmental health requires the District to ensure that Sources:
discharged water meets stringent water quality standards set by Federal, State and PG&E, solar, wind and
Regional agencies. methane co-generation
Wind Turbine Power Solar Power
Wastewater treatment is an The District’s property is host
energy-intensive process. for the solar system owned
The District’s wastewater and operated by SunEdison.
treatment facilities are the The solar system has the
first in California to be capacity to deliver 1 MW of
powered by wind turbines. power to the treatment plant
The four are rated at 50 kw at 12 KV and produces
and became operational in approximately 20% of
early 2010. electricity used each year.
VALLEJO SANITATION & FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT
1952 1970 1977 1987 1990 2005 2006 2010
VSFCD created by California’s Porter-Cologne Water Quality Act VSFCD begins more Clean Water Act amendments shift VSFCD wins national first place award Treatment plant VSFCD completes $60 District wins two major statewide awards:
a special act of requires sewage treatment plants to keep advanced focus to polluted runoff, and the from the U.S. EPA for innovative and completes major million project designed Wastewater Plant of the Year and Safety
the California water clean, balancing economic treatment. District creates its first Storm Drain beneficial application of biosolids to odor reduction to eliminate sewer over- Plant of the Year from the California
legislature. considerations with environmental goals. Master Plan. farmland in Sonoma County. project. flows in Vallejo. Water Environment Association.
1959 1972 1983 1988 1991 2002 2008
Wastewater Clean Water Act established, initial District purchases Tubbs District improves Treatment plant capacity is VSFCD wins Governors VSFCD wins Governors Environmental Economic
treatment plant focus on reducing polluted effluent Island farm for the secondary facility to increased from 30 to 60 Environmental Economic Leadership Award for Energy Conservation; major
begins treating from industrial and sewage beneficial reuse of biosolids. provide better service. million gallons per day. Leadership Award for Energy modifications to the plant includes building a 8.5
Vallejo’s sewage. treatment facilities. Conservation million gallon storage tank to prevent overflows.
CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF SERVICE 1952 - 2012
CELEBRATING
60 YEARS OF SERVICE
S C E F
olano ounty ConomiC orECaSt
Solano County is located on the Northeast edge of the San
thousands Total Wage & Salary Job Creation
Francisco Bay, approximately halfway between San Francisco and of jobs
1990 - 2040
Sacramento. Solano County has a population of 427,700 people 6
and a total of 129,900 wage and salary jobs. The per capita income
in Solano County is $43,319 and the average salary per worker 4
is $67,135.
2
In 2014, employment in Northern California increased by
3.4 percent, whereas employment in the greater Bay Area grew
0
by 4.0 percent. In Solano County, a total of 2,700 wage and salary
jobs were created, representing an increase of 2.1 percent. The -2
unemployment rate improved significantly, falling from 9.0 percent
-4
in 2013 to 7.4 percent in 2014.
Most major sectors gained jobs in 2014. The largest increases
-6
were observed in manufacturing (+630 jobs), leisure and hospitality 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
(+600 jobs), education and healthcare (+550 jobs), and wholesale
constant 2014 Real Per Capita Personal Income
and retail trade (+420 jobs). The largest losses occurred in
dollars per person
1990 - 2040
construction (-190 jobs) and financial activities (-190 jobs).
70,000
From 2009 to 2014, the Solano County population increased
at an annual average rate of 0.7 percent. This growth was due 65,000
largely to the natural increase (new births), as net migration was
60,000
low.
55,000
California
50,000
45,000
40,000
Solano County forecast
35,000
F H 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
orecast igHligHts
• In 2015, total employment will increase by 2.6 percent. Between • Net migration will remain positive over the forecast period. From
2015 and 2020, the annual growth rate is expected to average 2015 to 2020, an average of 2,800 net migrants will enter the
1.6 percent. county each year.
• Average salaries in Solano County are virtually identical to the • Real per capita income is forecast to rise by 3.3 percent in 2015.
California state average. Between 2015 and 2020, inflation- Between 2015 and 2020, real per capita income will grow at
adjusted salaries are projected to increase by 0.7 percent per an average rate of 0.8 percent per year.
year in Solano County, compared to 0.6 percent per year across
the state. • Total taxable sales, adjusted for inflation, are expected to
increase by an average of 1.7 percent per year during the
• Between 2015 and 2020, the largest employment increases will 2015-2020 period.
occur in education and healthcare (+2,600 jobs), construction
(+1,800 jobs), leisure and hospitality (+1,700 jobs), and • Industrial production is expected to increase by 4.8 percent in
professional services (+1,500 jobs). Together, these sectors will 2015. Between 2015 and 2020, the growth rate is forecasted
account for 68 percent of net job creation in the county. to average 3.1 percent per year.
• The population is expected to grow by 1.2 percent in 2015.
Annual growth in the 2015 to 2020 period is forecast to average
1.1 percent.
189
Solano County Economic Forecast
2006-2014 History, 2015-2040 Forecast
Net Registered New Homes Total Taxable Personal Real Per Inflation Rate Real Farm Real Industrial Unemploy-
Population Migration Vehicles Households Permitted Sales Income Capita Income (% change Crop Value Production ment Rate
(people) (people) (thousands) (thousands) (homes) (billions) (billions) (dollars) in CPI) (millions) (billions) (percent)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2006 411,351 -2,268 380 140.0 1,300 $6.5 $15.3 $44,748 3.2 281.6 2.9 4.9
2007 412,636 -1,836 375 140.5 973 $6.3 $16.0 $45,157 3.4 312.7 3.0 5.3
2008 413,167 -2,468 371 141.1 562 $6.0 $16.2 $44,527 2.9 331.5 3.2 6.9
2009 412,488 -3,558 372 140.9 559 $5.3 $15.9 $43,359 0.8 282.9 3.0 10.6
2010 413,129 -1,769 371 141.8 441 $5.2 $15.8 $42,448 1.3 287.5 2.9 12.5
2011 414,268 -1,198 365 142.4 388 $5.8 $16.5 $42,971 2.7 314.9 2.8 12.1
2012 419,064 2,605 368 142.8 529 $6.0 $17.3 $43,358 2.7 360.4 2.9 10.6
2013 422,899 1,619 381 143.3 800 $6.4 $18.1 $43,914 2.3 358.1 2.9 9.0
2014 427,743 2,559 389 143.9 666 $6.8 $19.0 $44,319 2.8 358.7 3.2 7.4
2015 432,611 2,622 395 144.5 983 $7.1 $20.0 $45,765 1.2 359.9 3.3 6.5
2016 437,971 3,122 400 145.4 1,280 $7.6 $21.4 $46,907 3.2 362.2 3.5 5.6
2017 443,249 3,021 404 146.6 1,508 $8.0 $22.5 $47,132 3.2 366.5 3.6 5.3
2018 448,274 2,746 408 148.0 1,603 $8.4 $23.5 $47,259 3.0 371.0 3.7 5.2
2019 453,218 2,638 411 149.5 1,610 $8.7 $24.6 $47,474 2.8 375.4 3.8 5.1
2020 458,006 2,458 414 150.9 1,605 $9.0 $25.6 $47,608 2.9 376.7 3.9 5.1
2021 462,840 2,506 416 152.4 1,565 $9.3 $26.7 $47,548 3.0 378.9 4.0 5.1
2022 467,732 2,566 418 153.9 1,519 $9.6 $27.8 $47,568 3.1 380.5 4.1 5.1
2023 472,718 2,654 420 155.3 1,492 $9.9 $28.9 $47,740 2.7 381.4 4.2 5.0
2024 477,616 2,572 421 156.6 1,491 $10.3 $30.2 $48,139 2.6 382.8 4.3 5.0
2025 482,301 2,376 423 158.0 1,464 $10.6 $31.6 $48,515 2.8 384.3 4.4 5.0
2026 486,879 2,281 425 159.3 1,409 $11.0 $33.0 $48,790 2.8 385.8 4.5 5.0
2027 491,269 2,107 427 160.6 1,363 $11.4 $34.4 $49,023 2.8 387.2 4.7 5.0
2028 495,635 2,111 429 161.9 1,319 $11.9 $35.9 $49,301 2.7 388.7 4.8 5.0
2029 499,928 2,048 432 163.1 1,293 $12.4 $37.3 $49,640 2.5 389.7 5.0 5.0
2030 504,098 1,943 434 164.3 1,278 $13.0 $38.8 $50,042 2.4 391.6 5.1 5.0
2031 508,164 1,841 436 165.5 1,276 $13.6 $40.4 $50,488 2.3 393.5 5.2 5.0
2032 512,107 1,719 439 166.6 1,274 $14.3 $42.0 $50,870 2.5 395.4 5.4 5.0
2033 515,951 1,609 441 167.8 1,258 $14.9 $43.7 $51,444 2.1 397.3 5.6 5.0
2034 519,667 1,485 443 169.0 1,243 $15.6 $45.5 $51,997 2.3 399.3 5.8 5.0
2035 523,433 1,555 446 170.1 1,216 $16.2 $47.4 $52,512 2.4 401.3 5.9 5.0
2036 527,344 1,702 448 171.2 1,195 $16.9 $49.4 $52,831 2.8 403.2 6.1 5.0
2037 531,302 1,773 450 172.3 1,180 $17.5 $51.4 $53,117 2.8 405.2 6.3 5.0
2038 535,303 1,839 452 173.4 1,163 $18.1 $53.5 $53,469 2.7 407.2 6.5 5.0
2039 539,331 1,895 454 174.5 1,147 $18.8 $55.8 $53,760 2.8 409.3 6.7 5.0
2040 543,311 1,856 455 175.5 1,137 $19.4 $58.1 $54,076 2.8 411.3 6.9 5.0
percent Population Growth units New Residential Units
change 1990 - 2040 permitted 1990 - 2040
6.0 3,200
2,800
5.0
2,400
4.0
2,000
3.0
1,600
2.0
1,200
1.0
800
0.0 400
-1.0 0
1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
190
Solano County Employment Forecast
2006-2014 History, 2015-2040 Forecast
Total Wage Manufac- Transportation Wholesale & Financial Professional Health &
& Salary Farm Construction turing & Utilities Retail Trade Activities Services Information Education Leisure Government
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------employment (thousands of jobs)---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2006 133.2 1.73 12.6 10.6 4.2 23.0 6.2 11.5 1.6 17.9 13.5 26.0
2007 131.6 1.55 10.7 10.6 4.5 22.4 5.6 11.5 1.6 18.6 13.7 26.6
2008 129.0 1.60 9.2 10.3 4.6 21.8 5.1 10.6 1.5 19.2 13.9 26.9
2009 124.7 1.56 7.4 9.9 4.6 20.3 5.1 10.8 1.3 19.8 13.8 26.1
2010 120.9 1.39 7.2 9.7 4.2 20.6 5.2 8.8 1.3 20.2 13.7 24.9
2011 120.6 1.41 7.8 9.6 3.7 20.5 5.1 8.8 1.1 20.4 13.9 24.3
2012 123.1 1.49 8.1 10.0 3.7 21.2 5.0 8.9 1.1 21.2 14.2 24.1
2013 127.2 1.67 8.6 10.2 3.9 21.4 5.1 9.4 1.1 23.0 14.6 24.0
2014 129.9 1.88 8.4 10.8 4.1 21.8 4.9 9.5 1.1 23.6 15.2 24.3
2015 133.3 1.88 8.8 11.0 4.3 22.2 4.9 10.1 1.1 24.4 15.9 24.4
2016 136.7 1.89 9.1 11.1 4.4 22.6 5.0 10.6 1.1 25.0 16.6 25.0
2017 139.6 1.91 9.8 11.3 4.5 22.8 5.1 10.9 1.1 25.4 17.1 25.3
2018 141.4 1.92 10.1 11.4 4.5 23.0 5.1 11.1 1.1 26.0 17.4 25.4
2019 143.0 1.94 10.4 11.4 4.6 23.2 5.1 11.3 1.1 26.5 17.6 25.5
2020 144.6 1.94 10.5 11.5 4.6 23.3 5.1 11.6 1.1 27.0 17.7 25.9
2021 145.3 1.95 10.6 11.5 4.6 23.4 5.1 11.8 1.1 27.6 17.7 25.6
2022 146.4 1.95 10.7 11.5 4.6 23.5 5.1 12.0 1.1 28.1 17.7 25.6
2023 147.5 1.96 10.7 11.5 4.6 23.6 5.1 12.3 1.1 28.7 17.7 25.7
2024 148.4 1.96 10.7 11.4 4.7 23.7 5.1 12.5 1.1 29.2 17.7 25.8
2025 149.3 1.97 10.7 11.5 4.7 23.8 5.1 12.8 1.1 29.6 17.7 25.9
2026 150.2 1.97 10.7 11.4 4.7 23.9 5.1 13.0 1.1 30.1 17.8 26.1
2027 151.2 1.98 10.6 11.4 4.7 24.0 5.1 13.2 1.1 30.5 17.9 26.3
2028 152.3 1.98 10.6 11.4 4.7 24.1 5.1 13.5 1.1 30.9 17.9 26.6
2029 153.5 1.98 10.5 11.4 4.7 24.2 5.1 13.7 1.1 31.4 18.1 26.9
2030 154.9 1.99 10.5 11.4 4.7 24.3 5.1 13.9 1.1 31.8 18.2 27.3
2031 156.2 2.00 10.5 11.4 4.7 24.4 5.1 14.1 1.1 32.3 18.3 27.8
2032 157.7 2.00 10.5 11.4 4.7 24.5 5.1 14.2 1.1 32.8 18.5 28.4
2033 159.1 2.01 10.5 11.4 4.8 24.6 5.1 14.4 1.1 33.2 18.6 28.9
2034 160.4 2.02 10.5 11.4 4.8 24.7 5.1 14.6 1.1 33.7 18.8 29.4
2035 161.6 2.02 10.4 11.4 4.8 24.8 5.1 14.7 1.2 34.1 18.9 29.7
2036 162.7 2.03 10.4 11.4 4.8 24.9 5.1 14.8 1.2 34.6 19.1 30.0
2037 163.8 2.03 10.4 11.4 4.8 24.9 5.1 15.0 1.2 35.1 19.2 30.3
2038 164.9 2.04 10.4 11.4 4.8 25.0 5.1 15.1 1.2 35.5 19.4 30.5
2039 165.9 2.05 10.3 11.5 4.8 25.0 5.1 15.3 1.2 36.0 19.5 30.7
2040 166.9 2.06 10.3 11.5 4.8 25.1 5.1 15.4 1.2 36.4 19.7 30.8
thousands Manufacturing Employment thousands Employment in Professional Services
of jobs 1990 - 2040 of jobs 1990 - 2040
12 16
11 14
10 12
9 10
8 8
7 6
6 4
1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
191
percent Real Retail Sales Growth thousands of Real Earnings Per Worker
constant 2014
change 1990 - 2040 dollars per worker 1990 - 2040
10 85
80
5
75
0
70
California
65
-5
60
-10 Solano
55
County
forecast
-15 50
1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
inmigrants Net Migration inflation adjusted Industrial and Farm Production Indices
minus index (1990=100)
outmigrants 1990 - 2040 1990 - 2040
700
15,000
600
12,000
500
9,000
400
6,000
3,000 300
Industrial
0 200
-3,000 100
Farm forecast
-6,000 0
1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
County Economic and Demographic Indicators
Projected Economic Growth (2015-2020)
Expected retail sales growth: 6.7% Expected population growth: 5.9%
Expected job growth: 8.5% Net migration to account for: 55.1%
Fastest growing jobs sector: Construction Expected growth in number of vehicles: 4.8%
Expected personal income growth: 10.1%
Demographics (2015)
Population with B.A. or higher: 24.0%
Unemployment rate (March 2015): 6.3%
Median home selling price (2014): $300,000
County rank* in California (58 counties): 20th
Median household income: $64,618
Working age (16-64) population: 66.1%
Quality of Life
Violent crime rate (2013): 473 per 100,000 persons High School drop out rate (2014): 10.6%
County rank* in California (58 counties): 41th Households at/below poverty line (2015): 10.4%
Average commute time to work (2015): 31.1 minutes * The county ranked 1st corresponds to the lowest rate in California
192
Drainage Maintenance Agreement
Among the Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District,
the City of Fairfield, and the City of Suisun City
Compiled, as amended, through January 23, 1995
DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT MADE AND ENTERED
INTO ON THIS FIRST DAY OF
MARCH, 1988, BY AND BETWEEN
FAIRFIELD-SUISUN SEWER
DISTRICT, a public corporation,
hereinafter referred to as “DISTRICT,”
AND
CITY OF FAIRFIELD, a municipal
corporation, hereinafter referred to as
“FAIRFIELD,”
AND
CITY OF SUISUN CITY, a municipal
corporation, hereinafter referred to as
“SUISUN CITY,”
RECITALS
1. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is constructing the modified Fairfield Vicinity
Streams Project on land owned by the State of California and FAIRFIELD and SUISUN
CITY.
2. FAIRFIELD and SUISUN CITY have agreed with the United States and the State of
California to operate and maintain the drainage facilities constructed as part of the
Fairfield Vicinity Streams Project.
3. DISTRICT has completed a drainage maintenance feasibility study and additional
analyses which demonstrated advantages to regionalizing the maintenance management
of certain storm water drainage facilities including the federal Fairfield Vicinity Streams
Project.
4. FAIRFIELD and SUISUN CITY are desirous of DISTRICT, through exercise of its
statutory authority, assuming limited responsibility for maintenance of drainage facilities.
5. DISTRICT is amenable to assuming such limited responsibility.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the covenants and conditions herein
contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
SECTION I
DEFINITIONS
1. CITIES – collective reference to FAIRFIELD and SUISUN CITY acting as individual
parties to this agreement.
2. District Engineer – The General Manager/District Engineer of the DISTRICT or such
other person as may be designated to act on behalf of DISTRICT by the Board of
Directors.
3. Director of Public Works – The Director of Public Works or such other person as may be
designated to act on behalf of the city by the city council.
4. Local Facilities – those storm drainage facilities for which DISTRICT provides
supplemental maintenance funding only under the terms of this agreement but for which
CITIES retain direct operation and maintenance responsibility.
5. Regional Facilities – those storm drainage facilities for which DISTRICT accepts limited
maintenance responsibility under the terms of this agreement.
6. Natural Creeks – open drainage channels which have not been materially altered in either
channel shape or alignment from their natural state.
7. Improved Channels – open drainage channels which have been altered from their natural
state in order to improve their capacity to carry water.
SECTION II
DISTRICT AGREES:
1. Regional Facilities – To assume responsibility for the following maintenance
activities on Regional Facilities owned by or under the control of CITIES:
A. Storm Water Pumping Stations
1) perform all required preventive and corrective maintenance of existing
and future pumping stations which are turned over to the DISTRICT in
acceptable structural and mechanical condition.
2) make recommendations for station improvements to increase reliability
and/or capacity.
3) make no modifications or improvements to facilities which would
adversely affect pumping capacity or reliability without the express
written consent of the Director of Public Works of the city in which the
facility is located.
4) inspect for operational readiness during dry weather conditions.
5) monitor operational status during wet weather conditions and make
reasonable efforts to keep the station in operation.
6) maintain written records of work performed and make such records
available for inspection by the Director of Public Works during normal
business hours.
B. Other Facilities – provide periodic inspection, cleaning and repair of
Regional Facilities including pipelines, improved channels, natural creeks,
detention basins, bridge foundations, sloughs, culverts and appurtenant
structures as required to maintain design hydraulic capacity in accordance
with this agreement, but not including maintenance of fences, gates,
guardrails, barricades or other devices intended to limit public access or
contact with the maintained facilities.
C. Replace equipment and structures that fail, provided that the District’s
obligation shall not exceed $50,000 per fiscal year.
D. Prepare and submit such reports on maintenance activity as may be required
by non-city agencies. CITIES shall provide data to DISTRICT for
preparation of said reports for those facilities maintained by CITIES.
E. Act as Lead Agency for purposes of obtaining permits, licenses, easements or
other instruments that may be necessary to carry out DISTRICT
responsibilities.
F. Regional Facility Inventory – implement and maintain a computerized data
base inventory of regional drainage facilities and make summary reports and
data available to CITIES as requested.
G. Act as Lead Agency for the purpose of dealing with the Regional Water
Quality Control Board, EPA and other agencies promulgating non-point
source pollution control regulations.
H. Insurance – require DISTRICT contractors or other parties working on any
activities associated with this contract to indemnify and hold harmless
CITIES, and to name CITIES as additional insureds.
I. With approval of DISTRICT Board of Directors, participate in the
Section II.I. is
construction of specific capital improvements to the drainage system. added
01/23/1995
2. Local Facilities – Provide supplemental funding to CITIES at levels set by the
DISTRICT in accordance with procedures established herein.
3. Enterprise Fund – establish a separate enterprise fund to account for revenues and
expenditures related to drainage maintenance activities of the DISTRICT. Revenues
shall include drainage maintenance fees, interest income and grants-in-aid related to
activities under this agreement.
A. Restrictions – to make no transfers into or out of the enterprise fund unless
authorized by the DISTRICT Board of Directors.
B. Annual Financial Report – to prepare an annual financial report of the
enterprise fund audited by an independent Certified Public Accountant. The
report shall be prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles and standards and submitted to the DISTRICT Board of Directors
within six months of the close of each fiscal year.
C. Budget – to prepare an annual budget for the activities covered by this
agreement, including estimated revenues, fees, and maintenance and capital
expenses and allocation to and status of reserves.
SECTION III
CITIES AGREE:
1. to allow DISTRICT and its contractors and agents free and unencumbered access to
facilities for the purpose of performing its obligations under this agreement.
2. to furnish DISTRICT with all available spare parts, construction drawings,
maintenance manuals, maintenance records, operational records, equipment
guarantees, financial records and related materials for each facility for which
DISTRICT assumes limited maintenance responsibility.
3. to warrant the overall structural and mechanical integrity of the facilities as of the
effective date of this agreement and make such repairs as may be required by
DISTRICT to bring existing facilities up to acceptable structural and mechanical
condition. Work shall be completed before the effective date of this agreement.
4. fund and construct such capital improvements to increase reliability and/or hydraulic
capacity as may be recommended by DISTRICT and determined to be financially
feasible by CITIES.
5. that new storm water pumping stations will be designed and constructed to conform
with minimum engineering standards established by DISTRICT.
6. submit to District on or before May 1 each year an annual report on maintenance
activities completed during the prior calendar year.
SECTION IV
THE PARTIES MUTUALLY AGREE:
1. Maintenance Planning Committee – there shall be established a Maintenance Planning
Committee, hereinafter COMMITTEE, consisting of the District Engineer of
DISTRICT, the Director of Public Works of FAIRFIELD and the Director of Public
Works of SUISUN CITY, or their respective designees. The COMMITTEE shall
meet on a regular basis, but not less than once each calendar year, to review and plan
regional maintenance priorities for the upcoming year, and make recommendations to
DISTRICT for consideration in preparation of the annual budget.
Section IV.2.A
2. Local Facility Maintenance
amended
06/27/1994
A. Enterprise Fund Accounts – CITIES shall each establish a separate & 01/23/1995
enterprise fund account within their respective financial accounting systems
to account for revenues and expenditures directly related to maintenance of
local facilities under the terms of this agreement. Revenues include the
annual DISTRICT funding and other revenues such as interest earnings or
grants-in-aid related to activities under this agreement.
1) Eligible Expenditures – Eligible expenditures shall be limited to the
following:
a. Direct expenses related directly to the maintenance and
rehabilitation of such facilities including salaries, employee fringe
benefits, equipment costs, materials, and supplies.
b. Indirect expenses may be charged to the enterprise fund but not
exceeding 15% of the eligible direct expenses.
c. Capital improvements to the drainage system which have been
budgeted and approved by the DISTRICT.
2) Interfund Transfers and Loans – No interfund transfer of funds into or
out of the enterprise fund shall be made unless authorized by the
DISTRICT.
3) Annual Financial Report – CITIES shall prepare an annual financial
report of the enterprise fund for the fiscal year which shall be audited by
an independent certified public accountant. The report shall be prepared
in accordance with generally-accepted accounting principles and
standards and submitted within six months of the close of the fiscal year.
4) Reserve Account – CITIES shall create a reserve account within the
enterprise fund for major maintenance and replacement of local
facilities. Any funds not spent during the fiscal year shall be deposited
to this reserve account. The minimum fund balance shall be maintained
at no less than twenty-five percent (25%) of the average annual revenues
allocated to CITY by DISTRICT.
5) Disaster Relief Funds – In the event of a flooding emergency for which
CITIES apply and receive state and/or federal relief funds, that portion
of said relief funds related to repayment of enterprise fund expenditures
associated with the emergency shall be deposited in the enterprise fund
to offset eligible expenses incurred during the emergency. The CITIES
are responsible for providing documentation of the eligible emergency
expenses and shall be responsible for responding to the state or federal
audits of said funds and expenses.
B. Facility Inventory – CITIES and DISTRICT agree to jointly develop a
computerized data base inventory of drainage maintenance facilities within
their jurisdictions. The inventory shall be in a format approved by the
District Engineer and, as a minimum, contain information on location, type of
facility, size, materials of construction, date installed and maintenance
history. CITIES shall submit to DISTRICT on or before May 1 each
calendar year a printed report listing all facilities within their respective
jurisdictions by type and size and an updated copy of the complete inventory
on magnetic media. This report shall include all new facilities placed in
service during the previous calendar year as well as all previously-
inventoried facilities. This inventory shall subdivide facilities into Local and
Regional categories for purposes of this agreement. Pipelines under 36" in
diameter and appurtenant structures shall be included as local facilities.
Designation of larger facilities as local shall be at discretion of CITIES, but
local facilities inventory for facilities larger than 33" diameter may not be
increased or decreased more than 10 percent in any fiscal year as measured
by effect on total supplemental funding by DISTRICT unless authorized by
DISTRICT Board.
C. Maintenance Cost Allowance – DISTRICT shall annually remit to CITIES
for deposit to each city’s enterprise fund an amount of money which shall be
calculated on the basis of Unit Maintenance Cost Allowances and number of
units maintained in accordance with procedures established herein. Unit
Maintenance Cost Allowances shall be established annually by the
DISTRICT by incorporation into the annual budget.
The amount to be deposited by DISTRICT shall be determined by
multiplying the number of units of each type of facility in each city’s Local
Facility Inventory by the Unit Maintenance Cost Allowance for that type of
facility and subtracting the city’s local contribution to the fund as shown in
the example attached as EXHIBIT A.
D. Neither DISTRICT nor any officer or employee thereof shall be responsible
for any damage or liability occurring by reason of anything done or omitted
to be done by FAIRFIELD under or in connection with any work, authority
or jurisdiction not delegated to DISTRICT under this agreement. It is also
agreed that, pursuant to Government Code § 895.4, FAIRFIELD shall fully
indemnify and hold DISTRICT harmless from any liability imposed for
injury (as defined by Government Code § 810.8) occurring by reason of
anything done or omitted to be done by FAIRFIELD under or in connection
with any work, authority or jurisdiction not delegated to DISTRICT under
this agreement.
E. Neither FAIRFIELD nor any officer or employee thereof, is responsible for
any damage or liability occurring by reason of anything done or omitted to be
done by DISTRICT under or in connection with any work, authority or
jurisdiction delegated to DISTRICT under this agreement. It is also agreed
that, pursuant to Government Code § 895.4, DISTRICT shall fully indemnify
and hold FAIRFIELD harmless from any liability imposed for injury (as
defined by Government Code § 810.8) occurring by reason of anything done
or omitted to be done by DISTRICT under or in connection with any work,
authority, or jurisdiction delegated to DISTRICT under this agreement.
F. Neither DISTRICT nor any officer or employee thereof shall be responsible
for any damage or liability occurring by reason of anything done or omitted
to be done by SUISUN CITY under or in connection with any work,
authority or jurisdiction not delegated to DISTRICT under this agreement. It
is also agreed that, pursuant to Government Code § 895.4, SUISUN CITY
shall fully indemnify and hold DISTRICT harmless from any liability
imposed for injury (as defined by Government Code § 810.8) occurring by
reason of anything done or omitted to be done by SUISUN CITY under or in
connection with any work, authority or jurisdiction not delegated to
DISTRICT under this agreement.
G. Neither SUISUN CITY nor any officer or employee thereof, is responsible
for any damage or liability occurring by reason of anything done or omitted
to be done by DISTRICT under or in connection with any work, authority or
jurisdiction delegated to DISTRICT under this agreement. It is also agreed
that, pursuant to Government Code § 895.4, DISTRICT shall fully indemnify
and hold SUISUN CITY harmless from any liability imposed for injury (as
defined by Government Code § 810.8) occurring by reason of anything done
or omitted to be done by DISTRICT under or in connection with any work,
authority, or jurisdiction delegated to DISTRICT under this agreement.
3. Termination – Either CITY may terminate its participation in this agreement by
giving written notice to the DISTRICT no later than May 31 of any year. Such
termination shall be effective on July 1 of that year. The DISTRICT may terminate
its participation in this agreement with respect to either CITY by giving written notice
no later than March 1 of any year. Such termination shall be effective on July 1 of
that year.
4. FAIRFIELD agrees to provide supplemental financial management services to
DISTRICT for Drainage Maintenance activities in accordance with the provisions of
the existing financial management agreement between DISTRICT and FAIRFIELD.
As compensation for these supplemental services, DISTRICT agrees to pay $2500 per
year in addition to compensation provided under existing agreement. Supplemental
compensation shall be adjusted annually by the mechanism provided under existing
agreement.
5. Mutual Aid – DISTRICT and CITIES agree to provide mutual aid and assistance for
drainage maintenance when requested during emergency situations, and agree to
reimburse each other for expenses related to said aid and assistance.
6. Effective Date – the effective date of this agreement shall be 12:01 A.M. July 1, 1988.
IN WITNESS the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the day first above-written.
EXHIBIT A
Example Calculation of Local Facilities Maintenance Cost Allowance
Facility Inventory Unit Maintenance Total
Type of Facility Units No. of Units Cost Allowance Allowance
Storm drain pipes L.F. 200,000 X $0.20 = $40,000
less than 33"
Storm drain pipes L.F. 15,000 X 0.20 = 3,000
greater than 33"
Box culvert drains L.F. 1,000 X 0.35 = 350
Improved Earth Channel L.F. 15,000 X 2.50 = 37,500
Natural Creek L.F. 25,000 X 2.00 = 50,000
Total 130,850
Less local contribution -50,000
District contribution $80,850