11/1/2024 Letter from the General Manager
Dear Cambrians,
The recent summer and fall biological surveys that inform our Adaptive Management Plan (AMP) have been completed and show that the local stream and surrounding habitats are in excellent condition. Following its completion, the Cambria Community Services District has officially released the Adaptive Management Plan Quarterly Baseline Monitoring Report for Summer & Fall 2024. The report provides essential insights into the ongoing adaptive management efforts and biological monitoring data, supporting the district’s commitment to protecting and preserving our local environment.
The lower stream areas are thriving, with pools supporting abundant wildlife. The Riparian and wetland zones host diverse species, like what’s been recorded in previous years. However, the biological surveys note that stream conditions vary significantly yearly and seasonally, mainly depending on rainfall. This natural fluctuation affects the stream’s flow, groundwater levels, and overall ecosystem health. While we monitor various environmental factors, our current data does not include an annual or seasonal rainfall analysis, which is known to impact these natural systems. Understanding these rainfall patterns over time could give us valuable insights into how water levels are influenced.
The primary goal of the biological survey is to track changes in our aquatic systems over time, especially if the Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) needs to become operational. By examining trends in water quality and ecosystem health, we aim to ensure the stream and habitats remain healthy for years.
Here is the link to the full report: https://www.cambriacsd.org/cambria-water-reclamation-facility-adaptive-management-plan-quarterly-baseline-monitoring
Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) Permitting
I understand that several of our community members have questions about how the permitting process works with the District and the County of San Luis Obispo as we progress through the Coastal Development Permit for the Water Reclamation Facility (WRF). The link below provides a guide to how the District—and, for that fact, anyone—obtains a land use permit in San Luis Obispo County, which applies to permitting the WRF in Cambria.
Below are the processes we completed and continue to work through with the County of San Luis Obispo to address some of these information requests, known as “Information Holds.”
Initial Consultation and Pre-Application MeetingsOverview: The process starts with an initial consultation with a San Luis Obispo County Planning Department planner. This meeting will provide an overview of the permit process, discuss zoning requirements, and identify any preliminary environmental or community concerns.
What does this mean?We are meeting with county planners to ensure we understand the requirements and address any early concerns about environmental impact, community alignment, and zoning compatibility.
Application PreparationWhat’s Included: The application must include detailed project information such as the intended use, environmental description (for CEQA compliance), maps, plans, and drawings specified by the planning checklist.
What does this mean?We are gathering all required documentation to ensure the application is as complete as possible, reducing the chances of delays. We want to be transparent about every aspect of the project, including environmental protection.
Application SubmissionInitial Review: Once submitted, a permit center planner will review the application to ensure it is complete. We will be informed if any missing items and corrections or additions can be made.
What does this mean?The county’s initial review helps identify any missing documents or details early on so we can address these before proceeding.
First 30 Days: Referral and Site VisitReferral Process: The first 30 days after submission, the application is referred to relevant agencies for input. Currently, below are the agencies that our project has been referred to. As of now, we have heard back from the California Coastal Commission and County Public Works.
- Agricultural Commissioner’s Office
- Air Pollution Control District (APCD)
- Building Department
- Cal Fire
- Environmental Health Department
- County Parks Department
- County Public Works
- North Coast Advisory Council
- Army Corps of Engineers
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife
- California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)
- California Coastal Commission
- Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB)
- California State Parks
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
What does this mean?This period allows different departments to review our application and ensure it meets specific criteria, such as public health and safety standards. The site visit helps confirm that our plans align with the actual location.
Information HoldsOverview: If additional details are needed after the initial review, the county issues an “information hold letter.” This letter specifies additional materials or clarifications that must be provided.
How We’ll Address Information HoldsWe will promptly review each item in the information hold letter and consult our project planner to clarify what is needed. We’ll engage experts, such as environmental consultants or engineers (specifically, our consultant, SWCA) if specialized reports or analyses are required.
What does this mean?Information holds are common in large projects. They allow the county to gather all necessary information to make informed decisions. We are committed to promptly addressing each hold to keep the process moving forward.
California Environmental Quality Act Review (CEQA)Types of Determinations
- Exempt: Some projects, based on size or scope, may be exempt from further environmental review.
- Negative Declaration (ND): No significant environmental impact is expected.
- Mitigated ND: Potential impacts are identified but can be mitigated through specific conditions.
- Environmental Impact Report (EIR): Required if the project could have significant environmental impacts.
What does this mean?The environmental review process thoroughly assesses any potential impacts on Cambria’s environment. If impacts are identified, we will work with the county to agree on mitigation strategies that protect the environment and community health.
Public Hearing and Community InvolvementHearing Process: The project will be scheduled for a public hearing once the environmental review is complete. The community will be notified, and residents can attend to provide input.
What does this mean?This hearing allows community members to voice any concerns or support for the project. We encourage community involvement and are here to answer questions and listen to feedback.
Decision and Potential AppealsApproval, Conditions, and Appeals: After the hearing, the Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors will make a decision. The project may be approved, approved with conditions, or denied. Decisions can be appealed to the Board of Supervisors, and Coastal Zone projects can be appealed to the California Coastal Commission.
What does this mean?The approval process ensures the project aligns with local regulations, environmental standards, and community goals. If there are concerns with the decision, there are opportunities for appeals to ensure transparency and fairness.
Compliance with Conditions of ApprovalOverview: If approved, the project must comply with all conditions before construction or operation can begin. This may include additional environmental protections, specific design elements, or infrastructure improvements.
What does this mean?Any conditions the county imposes aim to ensure the project benefits the community. We will comply with all requirements to uphold community standards and safeguard public interests.
Monitoring and Continued Community EngagementPost-Approval: After the permit is granted and the project is underway, we plan to continue updating the community on progress and address any concerns that may arise.
What does this mean?Our commitment to community engagement does not end with permit approval. We will provide updates and ensure that the facility operates safely and responsibly.
This structured approach ensures that all relevant environmental, community, and regulatory standards are met before permits are granted for major infrastructure projects like the Water Reclamation Facility.
Administrative & Finance Departments
CCSD Administrative Reopens at New Location
We are excited to announce that the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) Administrative Office has officially reopened at our new location. Our updated office address is:
Physical Address: 2150 Main Street #1-A, Cambria, CA 92428
Mailing Address: PO Box 65 Cambria, CA 93428 (no change)
Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday and every other Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or by appointment. The office is closed for lunch daily from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
We look forward to welcoming you to our new office and continuing to serve you with the same dedication and care. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at 805-927-6223.
CCSD Office Closure for Veterans Day
Please be advised that the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) administrative office will be closed on Monday, November 11, 2024, in observance of Veterans Day. For any Water and Wastewater emergency services during this time, please contact our 24-hour main line at (805) 927-6223. The office will reopen on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.
Facilities & Resources Department
PROS Community Park Phase 3 Feedback Form
The PROS Community Park ad hoc committee is conducting a series of community engagements to gather input and build momentum toward adopting the Phase 3 Plan. Please review the PROS Committee East Ranch Community Park Phase 3 Presentation document below before completing the feedback form. Please click here for more information.
Cambria Fire Department
Meet the Fire Chief
On Monday, November 25, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Fire Chief Michael Burkey will be working out of the Cambria Veterans' Memorial Hall and would love to meet you and hear your thoughts on anything related to the Cambria Fire Department.
Introducing Our New Reserve Firefighter
We are pleased to announce the hiring of Henry Wright as a Reserve Firefighter with the Cambria Fire Department. Henry recently completed his firefighter academy at Monterey Peninsula College, where he acquired the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in firefighting. In addition to his firefighting training, Henry brings a diverse background in equipment operation, roadwork customer service, and weed abatement. His well-rounded experience will be an asset to our team as we continue to serve and protect the Cambria community.
Upcoming December Board Meeting Items (subject to change):
- Discussion and consideration of Standing Committee Chair & Liaison appointments
- Discussion and consideration of adoption of a Resolution establishing the 2025 CCSD Regular Board Meeting schedule
- Discussion and consideration to direct staff to advertise for positions on the Standing Committees
- Receive a presentation from Upper Salinas - Las Tablas Resource Conservation District regarding a Habitat Restoration Project for the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
On Monday, November 25, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., I will be working out of the Cambria Veterans' Memorial Hall and would love to meet you and hear your thoughts on everything, Cambria. We will provide coffee and snacks, and as always, we welcome your feedback and ideas.
If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me or any of our management team.
Thank you again for your support; I am at your service.
Matthew McElhenie
