Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District Approves $50K Plan Review
UPDATE: The Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District has just authorized a $50,000 contract to review the controversial Suisun Expansion Plan, a significant step that could reshape local infrastructure. This decision, made earlier today, hinges on potential reimbursement from California Forever, as the district moves swiftly to address urgent concerns about the project.
In a board meeting, General Manager Jordan Damerel emphasized the necessity of thorough evaluations, stating, “We can’t start that conversation if we don’t make comments on their planning application.” The district has received annexation materials from Suisun City staff, which were deemed complete earlier this month. However, the timeline for comments is tight, with the city requesting feedback within 30 days.
The urgency of the review stems from concerns raised by local officials about the potential impact on current taxpayers. Fairfield City Councilmember Scott Tonnesen noted that a previous developer, responsible for the One Lake project, conducted its own Environmental Impact Report, indicating a precedent for developer accountability. But, Suisun Mayor Alma Hernandez warned that unresolved sewer issues at One Lake signal the need for meticulous due diligence, calling for “a clear buffer.”
Opposition to the California Forever initiative was vocal in the meeting. Duane Kromm, a former Solano County Supervisor, cautioned against underestimating the financial implications. He suggested that “this entire California Forever proposal is unprecedented,” urging the district to ensure that developers cover their own costs. Similarly, Jim DeKloe criticized the lack of transparency, claiming, “All of this has been done behind closed doors.”
In a striking moment, Fairfield Mayor Catherine Moy expressed skepticism about spending taxpayer funds on a project she believes lacks trustworthiness. “I cannot vote to spend $50,000 or two dollars of our current rate payers’ money on this,” she stated emphatically. Moy also recounted a troubling encounter with California Forever’s CEO, who allegedly stated their governance structure would be “nothing that you have ever seen before.”
The board’s decision to proceed with hiring consultants reflects a commitment to protect current residents while cautiously exploring future opportunities. Councilmember K. Patrice Williams raised concerns over whether $50,000 would suffice for the comprehensive investigation needed, emphasizing that the infrastructure is critical to understanding the project.
As the meeting concluded, Hernandez moved to authorize the contract, asserting the importance of gathering necessary information. Her motion passed with a narrow 5-3 vote, despite a counter motion to delay the decision, highlighting the contentious nature of the discussions.
With the clock ticking on the 30-day comment period, the Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District is poised to engage further with California Forever and address the growing concerns regarding local infrastructure and taxpayer interests. The board is clear: swift action is essential to navigate the complexities of this significant development.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds, with implications that could affect both local governance and community resources.
