2/21/2025 Letter from the General Manager

Dear Cambrians,

The Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) is pleased to inform you that today, we have officially submitted our responses to the Information Hold Letters for our Coastal Development Permit (CDP) for the Water Reclamation Facility (WRF). This marks a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to secure the necessary approvals for this critical project, which is designed to enhance long-term water sustainability and reliability for our community.

Over the past several months, CCSD staff and consultants have worked diligently to address all outstanding items requested by the County of San Luis Obispo. Our submission includes comprehensive land use, environmental protection, infrastructure, and regulatory compliance responses. We have carefully evaluated and incorporated necessary updates, including assessments on hazardous waste reporting, road and drainage considerations, flood zone compliance, and unique findings required under the Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance (CZLUO). Additionally, CCSD will enter a contract for an updated feasibility study to further the project’s development and compliance with all permitting requirements.

The WRF remains a vital component of Cambria’s long-term water resilience strategy, helping to provide a reliable, drought-resistant water source while protecting our natural resources. We appreciate the community’s continued support and engagement as we work through this regulatory process. CCSD will provide updates as we move through the next review phases, and we remain committed to transparency and collaboration with our residents.

While we anticipate that there may be follow-up questions and subsequent information holds as the County continues its review of our Coastal Development Permit application, we expect these to be minimal moving forward. The Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) has worked diligently to comprehensively respond to all outstanding requests, addressing key regulatory and environmental considerations. We remain committed to working closely with the County and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth review process. We will continue to provide any necessary clarifications or supplemental information as needed.

Administrative & Finance Departments

To stay updated on important Administrative Department News & Updates, visit www.cambriacsd.org and click the "Join Our Mailing List" icon at the bottom of any webpage. Once subscribed, you’ll receive timely updates directly to your inbox! 📩

Utility Bill Payment Processing Update

We continue to receive inquiries regarding utility bill check payments. Please note that USPS mail delivery can be slow, and all checks are manually entered into our system. This process takes time, especially with staff members handling all payments. We kindly ask that you remain respectful to our staff during this time, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we work diligently to process all payments.

To pay your bill electronically, complete the Direct Debit form and mail your completed form to CCSD, PO Box 65, Cambria, CA 93428. By enrolling in Auto Pay, you understand that your account will automatically be drafted on the due date (the 10th of every other even month). If you schedule your payment after the date that payment is due, you may incur a late penalty, which, if left unpaid, can result in disconnection of service.

Facilities & Resources Department

Maintenance Technician Recruitment

To stay updated on important Facilities & Resources Department News & Updates, visit www.cambriacsd.org and click the "Join Our Mailing List" icon at the bottom of any webpage. Once subscribed, you’ll receive timely updates directly to your inbox! 📩

Mission Country Disposal Cleanup Week

Mission County Disposal is hosting a Spring Cleanup Week in Cambria from March 10 through March 14, 2025. During this event, residents can place up to six additional 32-gallon bags of trash at no extra charge. Bulky items can also be placed on the street for collection, though additional charges will apply. For more details, please call their office at 805-543-0875.

Main Street Light Inspection

On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) will have a vendor performing inspections of the Main Street streetlights using a boom truck. The work will take place along Main Street, from Cambria Drive to Burton Drive. Please proceed with caution, be mindful of workers in the street, and follow all posted signs and instructions. Your cooperation ensures a safe working environment for everyone.

East Ranch Restroom Installation

The East Ranch Restroom installation will take place on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, the Cambria Dog Park parking lot will be closed to allow a delivery truck to maneuver the restroom building into position. The Dog Park will remain open, but no parking will be available in the lot. On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, the Cambria Dog Park and its parking lot will be temporarily closed to ensure public safety during the restroom installation. A crane and truck will be operating in the area.

While we aim to minimize unnecessary attendance at the site, the public is welcome to observe the installation from behind designated caution tape barriers. Those interested in watching may park on Main Street near the Bluebird Inn or Black Cat Bistro and walk across the bridge to the Rodeo Grounds. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we complete this important improvement to our community space.

Sand for 24/25 Storm Season

Free sand is available to help protect our community from potential flooding and erosion. This resource is available to all Cambria residents who may need it.

Details:

Location for Sand Pickup: 2021 Rodeo Grounds Road and Lampton Park (at the corner of Lampton and Windsor)
What to Bring: Please bring your own shovel, containers, or bags for transportation. Note: Tractors are not allowed to remove sand from the district’s sand locations. While sandbags are not provided at the Cambria Fire Department, they can be purchased at most local hardware stores.

We encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to safeguard your properties and be well-prepared. For additional information about emergency preparedness in Cambria, click here.

Cambria Fire Department

Meet the Fire Chief

On Monday, March 10, 2025, 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.

Emergency Preparedness

Throughout March, CCSD Cambria Fire Department staff, volunteers, and disaster relief organizations will host meetings at the Veterans Memorial Hall for all designated areas (Rural Residential; Leimert Estates and Happy Hill; Park Hill; Pine Knolls; East Village; Sea Clift Estates; East-West Ranch; Lodge Hill – East; Lodge Hill – West; Marine Terrace; and Top of the World) to discuss emergency operations. This will include discussions on neighborhood-specific preparedness, reviewing individualized evacuation plans, reviewing best practices for reducing fire risk around properties, and one-on-one dialogue with experts.

Cambria consists of distinct topography, enclaves, and a population of diverse ages and readiness. While our unique environment contributes to Cambria’s distinct allure, the valued forested terrain, lush hillsides, and limited infrastructure pose individual challenges when it comes to fire preparedness. Because of this, the Cambria Fire Department is constantly evaluating potential hazard prevention and suppression, as well as emergency response and rescue. Community building plays a crucial role in improving emergency outcomes. With plans and partnerships in place, in the event of an emergency, neighbors can more capably coordinate evacuation assistance for people and pets, transport, sharing temporary shelter, water, or power, facilitate safety shutoffs, and assist with emergency communications.

Preparing and organizing with neighbors is not a one-size-fits-all process. As community members, everyone can make neighborhood-centered preparations that fit a specific area's individualized features and demographics. While building partnerships among neighbors can help with preparation, evacuation, and property protection during wildfires, these complementary relationships will also help pool critical resources like generators, chainsaws, pumps, and other emergency supplies. These upcoming neighborhood meetings provide an excellent opportunity for functional planning with experts and community members, encouraging Cambrians to be connected when it matters the most.

SAFER Firefighter Paramedic Colton Blume

Congratulations to SAFER Firefighter Colton Blume

We are pleased to announce that on February 10, 2025, SAFER Firefighter Colton Blume successfully obtained his paramedic license. This achievement is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and commitment to providing the highest level of emergency medical care to our community.

Please join us in congratulating Firefighter Blume on this significant milestone!

Swearing in of New Fire Captain and SAFER Firefighter

On February 13, 2025, Fire Chief Michael Burkey officially swore in and administered the Oath of Office to Captain Greg McGill and SAFER Firefighter Henry Wright. Their dedication and commitment to serving the Cambria community are deeply appreciated.

A person in a uniform with a badge, standing in front of a brick wall and an American flag.

Captain Greg McGill