Authorize funding for a Feasibility Study on an Interagency Water Transfer Partnership with the Mesa Water District October 1, 2024
Water Supply Overview
Huntington Beach Current Water Supply
85% of our water comes from groundwater
15% from imported water
Pumping groundwater costs $688 per acre-foot
Imported water costs $1,256 per acre-foot—almost double City operates 9 wells, 6 of which are nearly 50 years old Well Failure Risks
If a well fails, we will need to buy imported water to replace the lost groundwater production.
This could cost an extra $2.3 million per year for 3 years (about $7 million total) until a new well is constructed
Exploring Water Transfers
Benefits of Partnership
Allow Huntington Beach to use Mesa Water District's infrastructure to access groundwater Could save millions by avoiding expensive imported water Improve infrastructure efficiency
Aid in response to emergencies such as drought conditions Mesa Water Districts Supply Overview
In 2024, built two new high production wells, increasing their water supply by 50% Operates on 100% groundwater and has a policy to maintain 115% of water demand Has the potential to serve water to the City of Huntington Beach while still meeting their customers' needs
Feasibility Study
Interagency water transfer agreements are complex
Study needed to explore legal, environmental, regulatory and financial aspects Estimated study cost: $150,000
Mesa Water agreed to cover 50% of the study
Funding in the amount of $75,000 is included in the approved Fiscal Year 2024/25 budget in Water Fund Account
Recommended Action
Authorize funds in the amount of $75,000 for a Feasibility Study for an Interagency Water Transfer with the Mesa Water District
Questions?