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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-01-2009 Supplemental Council AgendaThe City of Saratoga invites you to celebrate trees! TREE CITY USA 4toga Arbor Day Date: Friday, April 24, 2009 Time: 3:30 p.m. Location: Beauchamps Park Beauchamps Lane Bowhill Court Saratoga, CA Join your community to show your appreciation for Saratoga's trees and celebrate Arbor Day! Enjoy refreshments Help plant a tree Learn more about the trees in your City Take a seedling to plant at home! Did you know that the City of Saratoga is a Tree City USA? That means the City is committed to preserving Saratoga's urban canopy. During the last fiscal year, Saratoga planted a total of 50 trees! The City also pruned and treated over 400 trees. For more information, contact Crystal Morrow with the City of Saratoga at (408) 868 -1275 or cmorrow @saratoga.ca.us. 44 /POR r` San Jose Water Company 374 West Santa Clara St. San Jose, CA 95196 -0001 San Jose Water Company (SJWC) has filed Rule 14.1 with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), which identifies 13 "non- essential or unauthorized water use" activities. Enforcement of the water use prohibitions outlined in Rule 14.1 will begin approximately 90 days from the date of the Santa Clara Valley Water District's 15% mandatory conservation declaration (late June or early July). Non Essential or Unauthorized Water Uses San Jose Water Company's Conservation Plan Saratoga City Council April 1, 2009 Use of water through any broken or defective plumbing, sprinkler, watering or irrigation system. Customer must make repairs within five (5) days after receiving a notice from SJWC. Use of water which results in flooding or run -off in gutters, patios and driveways. Use of water for washing cars, boats, trailers, etc. without a positive shut -off nozzle. Use of water through a hose for washing buildings, structures, sidewalks, driveways and other hard surfaced areas in a manner which results in excessive run -off or waste. Use of water for more than minimal landscaping in connection with any new construction. Use of water for irrigation more often than every other day (odd addresses to water on odd numbered days, even addresses on even numbered days). Businesses that depend on water (golf courses, nurseries) are exempt. Use of water for irrigation during certain hours (to be specified). Use of water for decorative fountains, lakes or ponds, except for those that use recycled water. Use of water for filling or refilling swimming pools. Service of water by any restaurant except upon request. Enforcement of Water Use Prohibitions San Jose Water Company is currently preparing its implementation plan. Additional staff will be devoted to responding to customer inquiries or complaints concerning questionable water use. Staff will make every effort to work with customers to identify solutions to water waste activities. Additional Key Points Conservation staff has already embarked on an outreach program to high residential users in our service area, some of whom reside in Saratoga. Just over 100 water audits were performed in Saratoga in 2008. That figure could double in 2009. SJWC strongly believes that the 15% conservation goal can be achieved without the imposition of allocations and penalties; however, judicious use of water for irrigation purposes will be critical to our success. Many cities in Santa Clara County will be considering their own ordinances governing water use, particularly water used for irrigation purposes. San Jose Water Company is allowed to enforce only the provisions of Rule 14.1; therefore, coordination with governmental agencies within our service area will be vital. San Jose Water Company will be finalizing its plan in the next few weeks. We will make every effort to keep Saratoga informed. SonEo Cloro Volley Wafer District Saratoga City Council Apri 11, 2009 Board of Directors Central Valley Project (Lake Shasta) State Water Project (Lake Oroville) Hetch Hetchy (SFPUC) ornia is in a Drought Three Dry Years in a Row Reservoirs at 65% capacity Court Ordered Delta Pumping Restrictions Once it's on, I it's gone. I$ Neighboring counties going to man•atory conservation District asked residents to voluntarily conserve 10% Voluntary efforts only yielded 7% Ongoing conservation campaign if Once it's on, f it's gone. 4 March 24: District Board declared water shortage, called for 15% mandatory conservation 15% compared to when? We suggest 2004 Board has NO enforcement authority —only county /cities do Water retailers directly limit water users— Saratoga retailer: San Jose Water Co. Once it's on,1 it's gone. residents /businesses expect? Different cities different limits No hosing down driveways •Watering lawns on certain days of week or certain times of day No washing cars without a water shutoff device on hose Next Steps: •District will work with City of Saratoga on drought ordinance •San Jose Water Co will develop range of potential restrictions, in concert with city officials •District, San Jose Water Co, City will reach out to educate residents, businesses Install water efficient devices Only run your washing machine or dishwasher with full loads Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth and shaving Water your lawn only when needed and only early in the morning Use water -wise plants for your landscape Check sprinkler heads, valves and drip emitters once a month Fix those leaks! Both indoors and outdoors eve op roug t management plan District will develop draft drought ordinance with city input District and San Jose Water Company will continue to reach out and educate community about the drought t i Once it's on, I I it's gone. la Thank You Questions? Santa Cloo Valley Water District SM Memo City of Saratoga City Clerk's Office To: Mayor and City Councilmembers From: Ann Sullivan, City Clerk Date: April 1, 2009 Re: AGENDA ITEM #17 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS REVIEW OF CONCEPTUAL DESIGN Attached to this MEMO is correspondence staff received after the staff report was finalized regarding Agenda Item #17 on this evening's agenda. Joseph C. Masek 14467 Big Basin Way Saratoga Ca 95070 408 867 -5272 March 30, 2009. Mr. Macedonio Nunez I received the City of Saratoga Notice pertaining to the review of proposed work on Big Bain Way, and As it is of great interest not only for me as property owner and business operator, but also to residents of Saratoga, I should like to ask you to accept my few words in that regard: 1 Sidewalk improvements in the recent past the State of California has returned to the City of Saratoga the jurisdiction over the sidewalks in the Village, together With a financial support of 2000.000 dollars to repair the sidewalks. Now at appears that the City received jet another grant for the same project from the SCV Transportation Authority, my questions is: Why Does it take so long for the City to make the necessary repairs RECEIVED MAR 3.0 2009 CITY OF SARAI OGA 2 Crosswalk in- pavement- Lighting The two locations where these were installed, (Oak Street and Carnelian Glen) are seldom used for the simple fact that even when the Lights "blink" some drivers don't slow down or even stop. Pedestrians Wait till the "air is clear and then proceed without activating the lights. 3 Landscaping Some spots in the immediate Village need some attention... But the item. has been discussed several time since the inception of Saratoga Village Development Council in 1975 4 Hanging Baskets 6 Lighting Great idea, but not suitable for the Village for the basket flowers Require constant moisture it cannot be compared with baskets at Santana Row where the tall buildings provide cover from extreme Sun. Heat, nor to be compared with Vancouver British Colombia where the Oceans and bays provide constant air moisture. 5 Irrigation Is already provided to and around trees on Big Basin Way To high light the crosswalk along Big Basin Way (3rd, 4th, 5th Street) Could be achieving by installing "directional flood lights" mounted on. Existing lampposts. Decorative lights on most trees are burned out an should need some Attention C Memo To: Mayor and City Councilmembers From: Ann Sullivan, City Clerk Date: April 1, 2009 Re: ITEM #13 Proposed Fee Schedule Update for FY 2009/10 Attached is a corrected statement regarding the staff report for the Proposed Fee Schedule Update for FY 2009/10. The last sentence of the first paragraph on page 129 of the PDF version of the staff report in your packet states: "Paper copy notifications will no longer be available, which in turn" etc That statement should read: "Paper copy notifications will be available at $0.20 per copied page plus postage and plus the‘cost of the time expended by City Staff to assemble and mail the hard copy materials. The mailed materials will include an invoice for the service, payment for which must be received at City Hall within 20 days after the postmark date on the City's mailings". SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: April 1, 2009 AGENDA ITEM: DEPARTMENT: Finance Admin Services CITY MANAGER: Dave Anderson PREPARED BY: Mary Furey DIRECTOR: Mary Furey SUBJECT: Proposed Fee Schedule Update for FY 2009/10 RECOMMENDED ACTION: Hold public hearing to review recommendations for proposed fee changes, provide direction, and approve resolution amending the City's Fee Schedule effective for Fiscal Year 2009/10. REPORT SUMMARY: The City Council annually holds a public hearing to review recommendations and provide the community an opportunity for input on proposed changes to the City's Fee Schedule per California Government Code Section 66018: Prior to adopting an ordinance, resolution, or other legislative enactment adopting ci new fee or approving an increase in an existing fee to which this section applies, a local agency shall hold a public hearing, at which oral or written presentations can be made, as part of a regularly scheduled meeting. After holding the public hearing the Council will consider adopting a resolution which approves changes to the FY 2009/10 Fee Schedule. Upon Council approval of the proposed fee schedule and adoption of the "Resolution Establishing a Schedule of Fees staff will publish the FY 2009/10 Fee Schedule to be effective July 1, 2009. Staff is recommending the addition or revision of a number of administrative, development, advertising, and security deposit fees. Recommendations are based on a review of current fees and on requests from staff and users. Proposed fee changes are based on revised actual costs or on fees in comparable local cities, and are discussed in more detail in the following section. A dministrative Fees There are several recommendations for additions to the Administrative section of the Fee Schedule. In the effort to offer "green". City business services and increase staff efficiency, a no- charge Notification Services item is included in the Fee Schedule. For ongoing notification requests, such as those for: City Council and Planning Commission agendas Public notices related to adoption or amendment of the General Plan or a Specific Plan Adoption or amendments of the Zoning Ordinance Use Permits or Variances before the Planning Commission or City Council Documents pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act or any other meeting agendas, public notices, and/or documents that are regularly posted on the City's website for public notification and review, the City Clerk will now email to requestors an internet link to the agenda or document on the City's website when updated with scheduled meetings and related documents. Paper copy notifications will be available at 50.20 per copied page plus postage and plus the cost of the time expended by City Sta f to assemble and mail the hard copy materials. The mailed materials will include an invoice for the service, payment for which must be received at City Hall within 20 days after the postmark date on the City's mailings. The addition of a security deposit requirement is recommended for the City's audio visual equipment. Occasionally the equipment is loaned out to community groups, and to ensure both proper care of the equipment and that all pieces and parts are returned after use, staff is recommending a security deposit of $250 be added to the fee schedule. An additional fee is proposed for check replacements. On occasion, staff is requested to reissue checks to a payee multiple times. This costs the City staff time. Therefore, a fee would help to push this cost back onto the payee and encourage they take due diligence in cashing their check. Staff is recommending there be no charge for the 1 check replacement, with $25 for each subsequent request (for the same check). With the establishment of a standard billing rate formula which accounts for direct and indirect costs of staff time, the City's FY 2009/10 hourly billing rates are now included in the fee schedule. Community Development The Cormnunity Development Department reviews its fees each year and is recommending several updates to the User Fee Schedule: Staff is recommending a fee increase for Tree Permits from 875 to $100 and a correlating increase in the After the -Fact Tree Permits from 8315 to 8340 (the After- the -Fact Tree Permit is comprised of a Tree Permit fee and two hours of CDD Service Rate time). This would bring Saratoga's Tree Permit fees closer to other neighboring cities rates, where the Tree Permit Fees range from $110 to 8150. The variance from the other cities fees are in some cases a result of a higher fee for the first tree (i.e. 8150), and a reduced fee for subsequent trees (875). The Development Department would also like to add a Grading Exception Application Review Fee of $1800 to the fee schedule this year, with the flat fee based on the standard estimated staff time to prepare for and conduct a planning commission hearing meeting, similar to the fence application reviews. The Water Heater Replacement permit fee is currently set at 845 and is singularly lower than the other standard building permit fees set at $78. Staff is recommending this fee be brought up to the same amount as other permit fees to align the fee with the estimated cost of staff time for inspections by the City's Building hnspectors. Effective January 1 of 2009, the State required cities to collect a State Building Standards Fee set at 84 per 5100,000 in building valuation to fund the State's Building Code adoption process. This fee is then submitted to the State on a quarterly basis. As this fee was a State mandate effective January 1, 2009, it has already been established as part of the fees collected when permits are issued. Staff recommends including this new fee in the Fee Schedule for documentation and clarity for applicants. Public !Yorks The Public Works Department reviewed their fees and recommend Entnneering Fees remain at the current level for the upcoming FY 2009/10 fee schedule. Recreation Facilities' Department Recreation has removed the inside full color page adv-ertisement rate as the guide no longer prints inside pages in color, and is requesting the addition of two partial page rates for the full color glossy inside back cover: a one-third page rate for $550, and a two-thirds pag.e rate for S1,000 (the full page rate is $1,300). The recreation guide provides cost effective advertising as it comes out four times a year and is mailed to all Saratoga residents, as well as posted on the City website. The partial page ads offer more affordable advertising to the community's small business owners. Facilities' staff is recommending a Civic Theater Security Deposit of $500 be added to the fee schedule. The theater has a sig.nificant amount of lighting fixtures and audio-visual equipment in the buildinta, and staff would like to emphasize the need for proper care and conduct when using the building through a costly security deposit. Recreation class program fees are adjusted and published as part of the quarterly brochure to account for ongoing program cost increases and therefore are not included in the annual user fee update, whereas parks and facility rental fees are assessed and recommended for adjustment during the annual user fee update, if appropriate. Staff believes park and facility rental fees are currently set at appropriate levels and do not recommend increases for FY 2009/10. FISCAL IMPACTS Staff reviewed current fees and associated expenditures, and concluded that the proposed revisions to the Fee Schedule are necessary for the City to maintain its approach toward a cost recovery position for provided services. The recommended fee increases are directly related to either increases in costs that support the related functions, a revised assessment of the time spent providing the service, or requested revisions to advertising, rental, and security deposit fees. Staff has maintained proper documentations to support and justify the proposed increases and new fees. CONSEQUENCES OF NOT FOLLOWING RECOMMENDED ACTION The City would fall below the current cost recovery level. ALTERNATIVE ACTION N/A FOLLOW UP ACTION Staff will update the current Fee Schedule for FY 2009/10, to be effective July l', 2009. ADVERTISING, NOTICING AND PUBLIC CONTACT March 17, 2009 Notice of Public Hearing Published April 1, 2009 Council to hold a Public Hearing and consider adoption of the Fee Schedule Resolution July 1, 2009 Effective date for the. FY 2009/10 Fee Schedule ATTACHMENTS 1. Proposed FY 2009/10 Fee Schedule Resolution 2. Proposed FY 2009/10 Fee Schedule Update April 1, 2009 City Council of Saratoga California Mayor: Mr. Chuck Page Vice Mayor: Ms. Kathleen King Councilmember's: Ms. Jill Hunter, Mr. Howard Miller, Ms Susie V. Nagpal Dear Council Members: At the Site Visit yesterday, Kathleen King asked me if we had in writing the comments from the City of Saratoga (from 2002) regarding the subject of the power pole being addressed again when the above site was developed in the future. After again searching through our files today, 1 was finally able to locate the two letters we received in 2002 from John Cherbone (Public Works Director) and Thomas Sullivan (Community Development Director). I am submitting copies of these letters in response to Ms. King's request. Dennis even responded with a suggestion as to how the City could address the question of tuture undergrounding their comments. Apparently nothing has been done in the last 7 years to address the "void in the City's ability to require existing overhead utilities to be placed underground" (quoted from Mr. Sullivan's letter dated 8/26/2002). We appreciate your time in considering this item and taking the p for the site visits. Very Truly Yo Dennis and Lgnn McFarlane 18600 Rancho Las Cimas Way Saratoga, Ca 95070 408 -354 -6686 Attachment Ref: Application APCC09 -0001 14966 Sobey Road .i 22, 1 9=16 Dear Mr. McFarlane: 1 i August 30, 2002 Mr. Dennis McFarlane 18000 Rancho Las Cimas Way Saratoga, CA 95070 RE: Utility Undergrounding 14906 Sobey Road It was a pleasure talking with you earlier this week. I understand your concerns regarding the new utility pole installed as a part of utility undergrounding initiated by your neighbor, Mr. Jim Jean of 14906 Sobey Road. The new pole has been installed at the corner of Mr. Jean's property and has impacted your viewshed from your backyard. My understanding is that you have expressed your concerns to Mr. Jean and after discussions you came to the mutual agreement to minimize the impact of the new pole on your property. Mr. Jean will plant some trees to screen the pole from your view. In addition, Monterey pine tree, which is in bad health, shall be removed and several birch trees will be planted in the same location in order to create a new line of sight from your property. When a new application for development occurs at the property located southerly of Mr. Jean's, the City will require continuation of utility undergrounding if the project can be conditioned to do so under the City Ordinances in place at the time. i am_ aware that the Community Development Director has sent you _a letter_ in_regard to this issue and is looking into the current ordinance regarding undergrounding utilities on private property. Please do not hesitate to call me, at 868 -1241, if you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter. Sincerely, John Cherbone Public Works Director L AVENUE 08 13777 Y f 7 T t- i iJf i! f'i- l /i�l t�:���E�: t�: !eJ Y; �:1___t+.'x'C.l.. CALIFORNIA {J ='1 L.��`�_i33 >V ik +e a a �l Prssiloci art recyck,r; papv, rd> Wi z. i3IU!irpt3 ?'at o3 0L- £ob,:'2 August 26, 2002 Dennis McFarlane 18600 Rancho Las Cimas Saratoga, CA 95070 Dear Mr. McFarlane, t t, i a r�,— 1377 F1 'IT At AVENUE S i NUE .B ARA`li CALIFORNIA 1507 0 a 0 I20 1.: :z U i RE: Under Grounding of Utilities In response to the August 7, 2002, letter you sent to Mayor Streit, I would indicate to you that there is indeed a void in the City's ability to require existing overhead utilities to be placed underground via a condition of design review approval or building permit issuance. Currently, the Municipal Code provides that in new subdivisions all of the distribution of utilities shall be placed underground. The code also provides for the establishment of Underground Utility Districts for the purpose of undergounding existing overhead utilities in a particular area. I will explore with the Mayor and City Manager to determine the desire to amend the Zoning Codes to provide such authority. 1 will share with you that in my previous experience; the general rule was that you could require the undergounding of utilities from the closest existing pole with the issuance of a building permit. You could not require the undergounding of existing distribution. Sincerely, Thomas Sullivan, AICP Community Development Director XC: Mayor and City Council City Manager September 6, 2002 Mr. John Cherbone Public Works Director, City of Saratoga 13777 Fruitvale Avenue Saratoga, California 95070 Ref Utility Undergrounding Dear Mr. Cherbone, I want to thank you for your letter and time on the phone in discussion of the Utility Pole and its affect on my property. It was great to speak with some one who understands the nuances of the issue. I thought for future file and discussion data you may wish a photo of what the pole looks like with all the new rigging in place. My thoughts on a potential new ordinance for undergrounding future poles when houses are "scraped" or substantially remodeled are as follows: 1. If the house were to be larger than 3500 square feet then the requirement for undergrounding would kick in. My brief research shows that house run about $300 per foot for new custom homes. This pushes you above the $1 million plateau and it seems that undergrounding would be palatable at these numbers. 2. By keeping less than 3500 it would protect the smaller homeowner who may wish to upgrade their homes. Just my brief thoughts on an ordnance that would pass legal muster and give some of us hope for the future. Again thanks, S ul ennis and Lynn McFarlane .4 Santa Clara Volley Water District Saratoga City Council Aprill, 2009 District Mission Water Supply Update Call for 15% Mandatory Conservation Water Conservation Programs and Tips The Santa Clara Valley Water District's mission to provide: Groundwater and Watershed Management 4/1/2009 1 800 miles of streams i s groundwater b_, San Francisco Bay &ti 400.000 acre -feet of drinks 1,300 square miles of weters'h an 10 local reservoi About one half of Santa Clara County's water is imported Hetch Hetchy (SFPUC) Central Valley Project (Lake Shasta) State Water Project (Lake Oroville) Hetch Hetchy (SFPUC) 4/1/2009 2 Water Supply Outlook California is in a Drought Three Dry Years in a Row Reservoirs at 65% capacity •Court Ordered Delta Pumping Restrictions *15% compared to when? We suggest 2004 •Board has NO enforcement authority —only county /cities do •Water retailers directly limit water users— Saratoga retailer: San Jose Water Co. Voluntary 1 1111.1111 Neighboring counties going to mandatory conservation District asked residents to voluntarily conserve 10% Voluntary efforts only yielded 7% Ongoing conservation campaign o•.• a., m. a.r. 15% Mandatory Water Conservation •March 24: District Board declared water shortage, called for 15% mandatory conservation oWM ..an, t, 4/1/2009 3 15% Mandatory Conservation What limits might residents /businesses expect? •Different cities different limits •No hosing down driveways •Watering lawns on certain days of week or certain times of day •No washing cars without a water shutoff device on hose Next Steps: •District will work with City of Saratoga on drought ordinance •San Jose Water Co will develop range of potential restrictions, in concert with city officials •District, San Jose Water Co, City will reach out to educate residents, businesses 15% Mandatory Water Conservation 22 water conservation ograms and rebates to assist residents, farmers and businesses. 4/1/2009 4 Water Conservation Tips Install water efficient devices Only run your washing machine or dishwasher with full loads Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth and shaving Water Conse Water your lawn only when needed and only early in the morning Use water -wise plants for your landscape Check sprinkler heads, valves and drip emitters once a month Fix those leaks! Both indoors and outdoors Ampripmrpmemp Next Steps for Saratoga •San Jose Water Company will develop drought management plan •District will develop draft drought ordinance with city input District and San Jose Water Company will continue to reach out and educate community about the drought 4/1/2009 5 Thank You Questions? Santa Clara Valley Water District 4/1/2009 6 Frequently Asked Questions What does "mandatory water conservation" mean? The Santa Clara Valley Water District Board of Directors has called for an immediate 15 percent reduction in water use to assure we have enough water to endure the current drought. The water district is responsible for managing the overall water supply in Santa Clara County, but does not have the legal authority to mandate water use reductions. Instead, the board is calling upon cities to strengthen their water conservation ordinances to reduce water use and eliminate any water waste. Therefore, the call for "mandatory water conservation" may result in different restrictions in various cities. Mandatory water conservation could include elements such as limitations on outdoor watering, a restriction on using potable water to clean driveways and sidewalks, or penalties for wasting water (such as allowing water to run into a storm drain). The water district is working with staff from local governments on a draft drought ordinance for the city and town councils, as well as the county, to consider. We anticipate that each city will begin adopting and implementing these types of measures over the next several weeks. The board is also calling upon all retail water providers (utilities like San Jose Water Company) to implement their own drought management plans to help us reach a water conservation goal of 15 percent. If you have questions or concerns about the call for conservation, contact Senior Project Manager Tracy Ligon at (408) 265 2607, ext. 2569. For water saving programs and tips, call (408) 265 -2607, ext. 2554. In the summer of 2008, San Luis Reservoir's low levels left this intake structure exposed, affecting water quality in Santa Clara County. This condition will likely worsen in 2009. How can we be in a drought when our local reservoirs are at average levels? Our local reservoirs are only one part of our water supply. Typically, we depend on water imported from outside our county for about half of our water supply. This year, that supply will likely be cut by two thirds. The water we have in our local reservoirs is not enough to make up for that loss. Even with the call for conservation, we will be dipping further into our local groundwater reserves in 2009. continued on back... 2009 Water Shortage Alert Santa Clara Valley 6 Water District The Sierra snowpack doesn't look too bad. How come our imported water supplies are being cut? Two main reasons. First, after three relatively dry winters, our largest statewide reservoirs are still far below where they would normally be under average conditions. Second, because of recent court rulings, pumping from the Sacramento -San Joaquin Delta has been restricted since 2007 in an effort to protect the endangered Delta smelt fish. Therefore, even in years of normal precipitation, we will face reductions to our imported water supplies until the problems with the Delta have been resolved. I've been conserving all along. Will I now be penalized? If you already use water efficiently, thank you! Residents who already have water efficient yards and appliances are in the best shape to endure a drought. The first step to reaching our water conservation goal is to cut wasteful water use. Each water provider will implement its own plan to reach our conservation goals. Water providers may impose higher water rates for customers who use more than a defined base allocation. These programs have not yet been implemented. What can I do to save 15 percent? Reducing your water use by 15 percent can be accomplished in a number of ways. Go to valleywater.org for tips on steps you can take. The water district offers more than 20 programs and services to help. Is the call for 15 percent water conservation applicable countywide? Yes, the Santa Clara Valley Water District's conservation goal is for the entire county. The water district manages the groundwater basin, which is a water supply for all of the urban areas of the county. Some areas (Milpitas, Palo Alto, Los Altos Hills, Mountain View, Santa Clara, Stanford, Sunnyvale, and northern San Jose) get all or part of their water from the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission through the Hetch Hetchy system. Individuals should watch for further guidance from their own water provider. What we do The Santa Clara Valley Water District manages water resources and provides stewardship for the county's five watersheds, including 10 reservoirs, hundreds of miles of streams and groundwater basins. The water district also provides flood protection throughout Santa Clara County. Visit our website, www.valleywater.org. Once it's on it's gone. Save Water California is in a drought. Reducing water use is easy. For water saving tips, a free Water -Wise House Call or rebates offered by the water district, go to valleywater.org or call (408) 265 -2607, ext. 2554. 2009 Santa Clara Valley Water District 03/25/09 MDG Water Softener Rebate Program The Santa Clara Valley Water District is offerin• a limited -time rebate of $150 ur new water sofei to replace your old water softener. For more information, please call Ray Wong at 408 265 -2607 ext. 2288. Irrigation Technical Assistance Program (ITAP) ITAP provides free irrigation system evaluations to residential properties with one acre or more of irrigated landscape. The evaluation includes site specific recommendations on how to increase efficiency, potential cost /water savings analysis, and an annual irrigation schedule for your site. For more information, please call Kevin Galvin at 408 265 -2607 ext. 2639. we are and what we do Santa Clara Valley Water District manages the water resources for Santa Clara County and coordinates flood protection for its 1.8 million residents, while serving as environmental steward of the county's more than 800 miles of streams. Santa Clara Valley Water District SM 5750 Almaden Expressway San Jose, CA 951 18 408 265 -2600 www.valleywater.org At programs are subject to funding availability. Some restrictions apply. Brought to you by the Santa Clara Valley Water District in partnership with the San Jose /Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant, California Water Service Company and the cities of San Jose, Santa Clara and Palo Alto. Water Conservation for your Home Water Conservation Rebate Programs Clothes Washer Rebate Program This program a of $125 -$200 1 1o77fie Pi; r c a se and installation of a qualify- ing new high efficiency clothes washer in San- ta Clara County. The rebate forms can be ob- tained from most appliance stores or through the District by calling the Water Conservation Hotline at: 408 265 -2607 ext. 2554, or online at www.waterenergysavings.com High Efficiency Toilet Rebate Program The HET Rebate Program offers Santa Clara County residents a rebate of up to $125 for replacing any toilet measuring 3.5 gallons per flush (gpf) or greater with a high efficiency (1.28 gpf or less) or a dual flush toilet from the District's approved list. Pre approval is required prior to toilet purchase. For pre approval or more information, call 1- 877 874 -8479. Water Efficient Landscape sate Program This program offers financial assistance in the form of a rebate to Santa Clara County residents who are interested in replacing their irrigated high water using landscapes with low water using plants and/ or permeable hardscape. By replacing your high water using landscapes you will lower your water consumption which will save you money. Qualifying customers can receive a rebate of $75 per 100 square feet or up to $1,000, whichever is less. Rebates are doubled in Morgan Hill and Palo Alto. For more information about this program please call Kurt Elvert at 408 265 -2607 ext. 2205. iresidential Irrigation System Hardware Rebate Program This rebate of up to $1,000 is offered to Santa Clara County residents that have completed a Water -Wise House Call or a San Jose Water Company Residential Water Survey and would like to replace their inefficient irrigation hardware with new high efficiency irrigation hardware from our approved list. Qualifying hardware includes: Rain Sensors Weather -Based Irrigation Controllers Pressure Regulating Zone Valves Replacement Sprinkler Heads and Rotors Converting Over Head Irrigation to Drip For more information, call Kevin Galvin at 408 265 -2607 ext. 2639. H ater Wise House Call Program This is a free program available to those who live in single family homes or managers of multi family dwellings. By appointment, a surveyor will come to your home and offer suggestions on how to use water more efficiently both inside and outside the home. House Calls include replacing less efficient showerheads, installing aerators and replacing leaking toilet flappers if needed. The survey also includes a detailed assessment of your irrigation system and determination of an efficient irrigation schedule for your landscape. To schedule an appointment, interested residents should call 800- 548 -1882. Customers of the San Jose Water Company should call 408 279 -7900 for its similar program. Free Low -Flow Showerheads and more The District provides low -flow showerheads, faucet aerators, toilet flappers, and dye tablets (to test for toilet leaks) free of charge to residents of Santa Clara County. For more information, call the Water Conservation Hotline at 408 265 -2607 ext. 2554. Free surveys and classes Santa Clara Valley Water District er Use Surveys for Businesses Businesses in Santa Clara County may be eligible to participate in this free water survey program. By appointment, a water conservation expert will inspect your business or facility for ways to save and conserve water, thereby helping you lower your monthly utility bill. For more information, please call Karen Morvay at 408.265.2607 ext. 2707. Irrigation Technical Assistance Program (iTAP) For commercial, industrial, institutional or residential properties with one acre or more of irrigated landscaping, the District is offering free site evaluations performed by a professional landscape auditor. Property owners are shown how to improve efficiency in their irrigation systems by implementing site specific survey recommendations. They are also presented with a landscape efficiency rating and an annual water budget to assist in efficient irrigation use. For more information, please call Kevin Galvin at 408.265.2607 ext. 2639. Classes for Landscape Professionals Each year the District conducts a special one day water conservation workshop for landscape contractors. Topics include basic hydraulics of an irrigation system, how to increase distribution uniformity and common mechanical and electrical problems. This free workshop is offered in both Spanish and English. For more information, call the Water Conservation Hotline at 408.265.2607 ext. 2554. Who we are and what we do Santa Clara Valley Water District manages the water resources for Santa Clara County and coordinates flood protection for its 1.7 million residents, while serving as environ- mental steward of the county's more than 800 miles of streams. Santo Clora Valley Water District 5750 Almaden Expressway San Jose, CA 951 18 408.265.2600 www.valleywater.org All programs are subject to funding availability. Brought to you by the Santa Clara Valley Water District in partnership with the San Jose /Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant, the California Water Service Company and the Cities of San Jose, Santa Clara and Palo Alto 0 C U 1 8 Water Conservation for businesses Water conservation rebate programs Free or low -cost conservation tools Water Efficient Technologies P This program offers rebates of up to $50,000 to commercial, institutional and industrial water customers for the implementation of process and equipment changes which reduce water usage. The amount is based on the volume of water saved. For more information, please call Jeannine Larabee at 408.265.2607 ext. 3201. I Clothes Washer Rebate Program Apartment complexes and Laundromats throughout Santa Clara County are eligible to receive a rebate of up to $400 per machine for replacing older, top loading washers with high efficiency washers. For more information, please call Karen Morvay at 408.265.2607 ext. 2707. Rebates for Medical and Dental Offices Medical and dental offices in Santa Clara County may be eligible to receive rebates for water efficient x -ray film processor retrofits and dry vacuum equipment. For more information, please call Karen Morvay at 408.265.2607 ext. 2707. Irrigation System Hardware Rebate Program Participants of ITAP can now receive a rebate of up to $1,000 per site for implementing ITAP hardware recommendations. Examples include installing rotor spray heads, rain sensors, and weather -based irrigation controllers. For more information, please call Kevin Galvin at 408.265.2607 ext. 2639. III E Efficiency Toilet Installation Program istrict is offering free installation of high efficiency toilets to qualifying businesses and schools in Santa Clara County. For more information, please call Karen Morvay at 408.265.2607 ext. 2707. E ther-based Irrigation roller Program Weather -based irrigation controllers use local weather conditions to calculate and adjust a site specific irrigation schedule for your commercial property's landscape irrigation needs. Partici- pants in this free program receive a thorough site survey and can choose from either Real Time or Modified Historic Weather -based irrigation controllers (a participant co-payment is required). For more information, please call Kevin Galvin at 408.265.2607 ext. 2639. Sample Santa Clara Valley Water District Residential Water Conservation Activities Indoor Activity Savings Install high- efficiency toilets 25 gallons per day per toilet Install high efficiency clothes washing machines 18 gallons per day Install low -flow showerheads and faucet aerators 16 gallons per day per household Only run your washing machine or dishwasher with full loads 15 -20 gallons per load Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth and shaving 2 gallons per minute Fix household leaks 15+ gallons per day per leak Outdoor Activity Savings Water your lawn only when needed, generally once every three days during the summer 15 -25 gallons per minute reduced Check sprinkler heads, valves and drip emitters once a month 15 -25 gallons per day Water in the early morning. Experts feel the best time to water is between midnight and 6 a.m. 20-25 gallons per day Apply a layer of organic mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss and keep weeds down 20 -30 gallons per day Ask your local nursery for the types of plants that will save you water. Water -wise plants can be beautiful as well as practical Savings Varies Install water efficient drip irrigation systems for trees, shrubs, and plants 20 -25 gallons per day Attachment 6 Page 1 of 1 Santa Clara County Water Retailer Prohibitions and Restrictions Water Retailer 0. c c 0 a 0 a Purissima Hills Santa Clara Stanford Sunnyvale Acum Morgan Hill San Jose Municipal Water ISan Jose Water Company Great Oaks California Water Broken or defective plumbing (water waste due to leaks) is prohibited 0% 10% 5 -10% 5 -10% 0 -10% 0% 0% 10% 0% 20 -35% Water waste, including but not limited to any flooding or runoff into the street or gutters is prohibited 0% 10% 5 -10% 5 -10% 0 -10% 10% 0% 10% 0% 25% 20 -35% Hoses can not be used to clean sidewalks, driveways, patios, plazas, homes, businesses, parking lots, roofs, awnings or other hard surfaces 5% 10% 20 -35% 0 -5% 0 -10% 0 15% 0% 10% 25% 25% 20 -35% Prohibition on washing cars, buses, boats, or other vehicles and equipment using a hose without an automatic shut off device 0% 5 -10% 5 -10% 0 -10% 0 25% 25% 10% 0% 25% 20 -35% Cleaning sidewalks, buildings, hard surfaced area unless equipped with auto shut -off valve or for health reasons or with use of a bucket only 0% 10% 5 -10% 0% 0% 25% 0% inn 25% Public encouraged to participate in water conservation programs 0% 5 -10% 5 -10% 0% 0% 10% 12.5% 0% Irrigating landscaping during restricted times 25% 10 -20% 5 -10% 10 -20% 10 15% 25% 10 -25% 25% 10% 25% 20 -35% Failure to repair leaks is prohibited (may result in fine in some retailer service areas) 35% 25% 20- 35",4. 540% 0% 0% 0% No single pass cooling system on new construction 10% 0% 0% 0% Informational outreach will be implemented 5% 0% 540% 5 -10% 0% 0% 12.5% 15% 5 -10% Use of potable groundwater extracted from private wells for dust control, consolidation of backfill or other non essential construction purposes is prohibited. 5% 25% 5 -10% a -2o% 25% 25% 10% 25% 20 -35% The irrigation of median strips (i.e., public landscaped facilities) with potable water is prohibited. The use of reclaimed water is permitted when approved by the Department of Health 35% 10% 10% 45% 25% The filling of new swimming pools, spas, hot tubs or the draining and refilling of existing pools, etc. is prohibited: topping off is allowed to the extent that the designated allocation is not exceeded. 5% 25% 20 -35% 25% 35% 25% 409 20 -35% Car wash equipment not equipped to recycle water is prohibited 0% 0% 20 -35% Recycled water will be used for irrigation if recycled water is available 0% 25% 35 -50% 10% 0% Use of water from any unmetered source, such as fire hydrants prohibited (except for health and safety an in some cases hydrant maintenance) 5% 25% 5 -10% 10 -20% 0% 25% 25% 50% 30% 25% The use of potable water for street sweepers /washers prohibited. The use of reclaimed water permitted when approved by the Department of Health 5% 0% 20 -35% 20 -35% Distribution system and commercial water audits, leak detection, and repair 0% 10% 10% Restaurant water service prohibited unless upon request 0% 0% O 10% 0% 10% 0% 25% 20 -35% Conservation pricing J 20% 0% 5 -10% 30% 0% 10% 37.5% 25% Metering all connections 0% 5 -10% 0% 0% 10% 0% Prohibition on water for outside plants w/o using a hose without an automatic shut off device 0% 5 -10% 0 15% 0% 10% 25% 20-35% Water used for cooling purposes is to be recycled 0% 0% 35 -50% 0% Water used for all cooling purposes or for commercial car washes shall be recycled 0% 0% 20 -35% 0% 25% Businesses are required to display "notice of water shortage" information 0% 20 -35% 0% 35% 20% Irrigation of lawns, play fields, parks, golf courses, cemeteries, and landscaping of any type with potable water will be reduced 10% 5 -10% 45% 10% 12.5% 30% Use of non drought tolerant plants for landscaping (planting restrictions) 0% Potable water is not to be used to clean, fill or maintain levels in decorative fountains (exceptions made if fountain is designed to support flora or fauna) 25% 20 -35% 25% 25% 25% 25% 20% 25% 20 -35% Use of additional water is not allowed for new landscaping or expansion of existing facilities unless low water use landscaping designs and irrigation systems were employed 25% 20 -35% 50% reduction in all parks, medians, and public landscaped areas Use of water for outside plants, lawn, landscape, and turf areas more often than every other day, with even numbered addresses watering on even numbered days, odd numbered addresses watering on odd numbered days. Exception to golf courses, commercial nurseries, and other water dependent industries 25% 25% 20-35% New swimming pool or pond construction, or initial filling of any swimming pool or pond (refilling due to evaporation or repairs is acceptable) Model resolution for increased rates 50 %1 Volume limitations 25% 50% 25% The use of potable water on golf courses is limited to the irrigation of putting greens and tees. The use of groundwater and reclaimed water is permitted when approved by the Dept. of Health 20 -35% 21 -49% 45% 1 35% Outdoor water use audits are required for those customers continuing to use more than target allotments for three months 20 -35% Elimination of city water uses for landscaping (City landscaping) 45% 25% 25% Verified water waste will serve as prima facie evidence that the allocation assigned to the water account is excessive and subject to reduction 20 -35% 25% Customer class quantity allocations 50% 25% The washing of all automobiles, motorcycles, RVs, trucks, Transit vehicles, trailers, boats, trains and airplanes is prohibited outside of a commercial washing facility ir 35% 40% 35 -50% 0; 25% 25% 25% 25% New landscaping ban 35 -50 50 35% 50% 37.5% 30% 3§ New landscaping ban during May through October 30% Turf/landscaping irrigation ban 45 °k 50% 50% 40% g 50% 4 e 30 -50% a Operation of a pool w/o cover prohibited 4;.- aa,: 50% No new service hookups considered Private well owners shall adhere to water usage guidelines 5 -5. Homes sold or re -sold are to be fitted w /ULFTs: may apply to businesses 25 *Assuming Santa Clara County would enforce restriction *Not confirmed by water retailer *Stanford provided additional information pertaining to prohibitions and restrictions Color Key 0 10% Conservation Goal: 10 20% Conservation Goal: 20 -25% Conservation Goal: 25% and Greater Conservation Goal: WATERSHED STEWARDSHIP The water district manages five watersheds Lower Peninsula, Guadalupe, Coyote, West Valley, and UvasiLlagas providing flood protection and supporting recreation and habitat restoration. These efforts are underpinned by its conunitment to environmental stewardship, which has earned the district the world -class 150140001 certification. Protecting People and Property Protecting homes, businesses and transportation networks from the devastating effects of floods is one of the main jobs of the water district. Through the years as the county's population and economy have grown, the water district has worked hard to keep pace with ongoing stream maintenance and construction of flood protection projects. Since the early 1980s, the water district has invested more than a billion dollars in flood protection programs, including constructing major flood pro- tection projects, and protected more than 93,000 properties in previously flood -prone areas. Natural Flood Protection The water district is a nationally recognized leader in multi- purpose flood protection by under- taking projects that combine flood protection with habitat enhancement and restoration as well as recreation. Two such major projects the lower and downtown Guadalupe River projects were completed in recent years. Together, the projects tame 10 miles of the river and protect an estimated 95,000 people who live or work along the river in the cities of San Jose and Santa Clara In addition, these projects create recreation opportunities by connecting what will be a 20 -mile multi -use trail from Almaden Valley to San Francisco Bay, and help improve wildlife habitat by removing barriers that prevented migrating fish from making their way to upstream spawning grounds. Clean, Safe Water in Creeks and Bays Improving the quality of water in creeks and bays and maintaining the natural features of stream corridors contribute to enhancing Santa Healthy Creek Bay Ecosystems Clara County's quality of life, and are the key components of the water district's watershed approach In the last five years, the water district has removed more than 30,000 cubic yards of trash and debris from neighborhood creeks and cleared bridges and floodwalls of more than 1.2 million square feet of graffiti. Coyote Parkway Wetland The water district also carries out environmental work that creates, protects and restores habitats as part of its general mission as well as contrib- uting to targeted efforts to encourage the return of endangered species. One such example is the water district's partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to advance the ambitious South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project to restore 15,000 acres of former salt ponds while simultaneously improving bay front flood protection. Trails, Parks and Open Space The water district partners with cities and the county to provide open space and recreational opportunities at many of its 10 reservoirs and along creeks throughout the county. More than 35 miles of creekside trails have been constructed since 2000 and about 80 miles more are planned in the coming years. PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE Climate Change Earth's climate is changing. This poses signifi- cant challenges for water resource management. Increasing air and water temperatures, reduced Sierra snowpack, altered rainfall patterns and hydrology (the timing and amount of flow in a creek or river), and rising sea levels will all affect our region and its water resources. We could expe- rience more severe droughts or floods or both. In addition, rising sea levels will put our bay front communities at greater risk. Overall, the increase in uncertainty as to what the future holds makes planning for sustainability and maintaining the community's quality of life that much more difficult. The water district is addressing the climate change challenge and related uncertainties at two levels by taking action to not exacerbate the problem, and incorporating an assessment of climate change implications into all water district activities. The water district is specifically incorpo- rating adaptation to climate change vulnerabilities and risks into its water supply, flood management, business and strategic plans. In 2008, the water district board of directors instituted an aggressive policy to pursue carbon neutrality as district goal. The water district has already changed the way it manages energy usage and has optimized its operations for maximum energy efficiency. The district's water conservation programs also make a significant contribution to energy savings in the county. In 2006, 96 percent of the energy used by the water district was generated from renewable sources. Over the last 15 years, the water district's water conservation and recycling programs have saved over 1.4 billion kilowatts of energy, and reduced air pollution by an equivalent amount of removing 72,000 cars from the roads. *Primed on recycled paper using soy -based inks•05 /08 /10K•BD ©2008 Sonia Clara Volley Water District r L e t 1 e BOARD OF DIRECTORS Rosemary Kamer District 1 Gilroy, Morgan Hill, Los Gatos, portions of San Jose and unincorporated areas. Joe Judge District Portions of San Jose. Richard Santos District 3 Milpitas, portions of San Jose including Ahiso, parts of Sunnyvale and unincorporated areas. Larry Wilson District 4 Portions of Santa Clara, Campbell and San Jose. Patrick Kwok District 5 Palo Alto, Stanford, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Mountain View, Cupertino, Saratoga, Monte Sereno, and portions of Sunnyvale and San Jose. Tony Estremera North at Large Area defined by the 1967 Santa Clara Valley Water Conservation District boundaries. Sig Sanchez South at large Area defined by 1967 Gavilan Water Conservation District. boundaries. To provide feedback or contact the water district, call (408) 26.5 -2600, or use our online Access Valley Water customer service center at www.VALLEYWATER.ORG Santa Clara Valley Water District 5750 ALMADEN EXPY SAN JOSE, CA 95118 VALLEY WATER A Profile of the Santa Clara Valley Water District Santa Clara Valley Water District Protecting Your Future OVERVIEW The Santa Clara Valley Water District is the comprehensive water management agency for the residents of Santa Clam County. It supplies clean and safe water, manages our local groundwater basins, implements flood protection projects and provides watershed stewardship. It serves approximately two million people —1.8 million residents and 200,000 commuters in 15 cities and unincor- porated areas in the L300- square -mile county. The cities it serves are Campbell, Cupertino, Gilroy, Los Altos Hills, Milpitas, Monte Serena, Morgan Hill, Mt. View, Palo Alto, San Jose, Santa Clara, Saratoga and Sunnyvale, and the towns of Los Altos and Los Gatos. The water district is a special district, formed by the California Legislature in 1929. It has a seven- member Board of Directors. Five members are elected from the same geographical districts within the county as the Board of Supervisors and two are at -large members. The water district's mission is: CC healthy, safe, and enhanced quality of living in Santa Clara County through watershed stewardship and comprehensive management of water resources in a practical, cost effective, and environmentally sensitive manner. WATER SYSTEM To maintain maximum efficiency, flexibility and reliability, the water district has developed and relies upon a diversified portfolio of water sources. About half the water used in the county originates hundreds of miles away in the Sierra Nevada and is delivered through the Sacramento- San Joaquin River Delta or the Hetch Hetchy system. Most of the remainder comes from local rainfall, much of which is captured in the water district's ten local reservoirs. Wiiterslied Gilroy Reservoir Palo Alto Mountain View Reservoirs San Francisco Bay k t. 1 M iTj sae. en r- r t s i Los Altos Sunnyvale Altos Hills Santa Clara ANN. San Jose sae iertino vves Watershed f 'A7 Campbell Saratoga Stevens Creek Reservoir v. Guaddt t' Monte Serenof Vasona Reservoir ;,.1=. y` Los Gatos Guada Lexington Reservoir Our reservoir water is released into creeks and percolation ponds to replenish local groundwater aquifers and manage environmental needs, or is piped directly to a water treatment plant. Recycled Water is used throughout the county as well. To provide greater reliability, the district also "banks" water in groundwater storage out- side of the county, which can be called upon during dry times. The water district sells treated water to 13 local water retailers, such as the San Jose Water Company, which, in turn, provide it to their customers. The water district also manages the groundwater basins, which is the source of nearly half of the county's water supply. The water district owns and operates 10 reser- voirs, which contain 25 percent of Santa Clara County's water supply. The reservoirs have a total storage capacity of approximately 170,000 acre- as lupe Reservoir 7 .S Calero Reservoir 4?;',.. Almaden Reservoir Chesbro Reservoir '*sit... t_ Uvas Reservoir VV Anderson 04% Hill feet. (One acre -foot equals 326,000 gallons of water, which is enough to serve the needs of two households of five for one year.) Although constructed for water supply, the reservoirs also provide incidental flood protection by containing runoff early in the rainfall season. In addition, these reservoirs are open to recre- ation and benefit the environment by allowing for releases of water to keep creeks flowing during the dry summer months. With 90,373 acre -feet of storage capacity, Anderson Reservoir is the largest. man-made lake in Santa Clara County. The 10 reservoirs are: Almaden, Anderson, Calero, Chesbro, Coyote, Guadalupe, Lexington, Stevens Creek, Uvas and Vasona. In 2007, Santa Clara County used about 379,100 acre -feet of water, amounting to a daily average consumption of 338 million gallons. When the district was formed in 1929, the county's population was 145,000 compared with 1.8 million today. The demand for water rose as the county's population and economy grew. However, conservation efforts instituted after the last major drought in the late 1980s have basically kept the county's water demand flat despite a significant rise in its population. Treatment Plants The water district provides water that meets or exceeds all drinking water quality standards. The water district owns and operates three water treatment plants Santa Teresa in south San Jose, Penitencia in east San Jose, and Rinconada in Los Gatos. Together, the three plants can deliver up to 220 million gallons a day (MGD) of clean drinking water. Rinconada, which began operation in 1968, is the water district's first treatment plant and Santa Teresa Water Treatment Plant is the largest, with a peak capacity of 100 MGD. To ensure continued high quality and better tasting drinking water, the water district has recently implemented an advanced technology water purification process known as ozonation at the Santa Teresa and Penitencia water treatment plants. At these two plants, ozone, rather than chlorine, is used as the primary disinfectant. Water Quality Lab The water district has completed construction of a new $17.5 million "state -of -the -art" water quality laboratory to meet increasing needs for water sampling and ever more rigorous testing. It replaces a lab which was built in 1968 when the water district tested 1,000 samples annually. Today, the water district tests approximately 140,000 samples a year. E PA WATER EFFICIENCY E A D E R AWARD Conservation With limited water sources and a growing population, water conservation is essential to ensure that we have a reliable supply of water today and tomorrow. The water district has been championing water conservation since the last major drought in the late 1980s, resulting in billions of gallons of water savings a year. These conservation efforts have resulted in 10 percent savings in Santa Clara County's annual water demand and the water district plans to double this amount by 2030. For its efforts to save water, the district has been honored with the national U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 2007 Water Efficiency Leader Award. The water district has nearly 20 different conser- vation programs, which offer a mix of incentives and rebates, free device installation, one on-one home visits, site surveys and educational outreach to reduce water consumption in homes, businesses and agriculture. Financial incentives for residents and businesses include rebates on high- efficiency toilets, clothes washers, water efficient landscape materials and efficient irrigation equipment. In addition, the water district also carries out an award winning education and outreach program reaching school children, youth and the commu- nity at large. Recycling and Desalination Recycled and desalinated water supplies are often described as "drought- proof' and "all- weather" sources of water. The water district is conunitted to expanding the use of recycled water. Today, there are growing partnerships with San Jose, Gilroy, Palo Alto and Sunnyvale. Currently, about four percent of the county's total water use is from recycled water. Its usage is limited primarily to landscaping. hi the future, recycled water will become an even bigger component of the water district's supply mix. The target is to increase recycled water use in the county to 10 percent by 2020. Desalination removes salts from the ocean or other salty water to produce fresh water through distillation or filtration. The water district has joined with three other lie Bay Area water agencies to jointly explore the feasibility of build- ing a regional desalination plant using membrane filtration technology. The other participating water agencies are the East Bay Municipal Utility District, the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and the Contra Costa Water District. Pilot work has begun to turn brackish water from Suisun Bay in Contra Costa County into fresh water. Santo G o Voley Water DntrctO Saratoga City Council City Clerk 1