Four City Councilmembers, City of Malibu staff and a group of concerned citizens rolled up their sleeves at a work session on April 24, deliberating about three keystone issues that officials must make decisions about before those who are rebuilding homes are able to submit architectural plans and permit applications for city approval. The meeting addressed wastewater treatment for parcels destroyed by the Palisades Fire, geotechnical study requirements, and self-certification by some design professionals, an approach that would save fire victims time and money. Residents were palpably frustrated because the four long months since the fire have been full of tumult and the tough issues discussed in the session are complicated, will take a lot of time and will be expensive. 

Other local water management and infrastructure news:

• Capitol Weekly (Sacramento, Calif.): Opinion: New MWD policy could be revolutionary​
• KERO (Bakersfield, Calif.): City of Bakersfield proposes 50.8% water rate increase over next 5 years 
• The Vacaville Reporter (Calif.): Vacaville hosts water rate study session
• Wastewater Digest: South Tahoe, California, moves forward with water infrastructure projects
• East Bay Municipal Water District: Blog: Raise a glass to water quality