Santa Maria · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Maria public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Surplus Water Transfer
A supplemental water purchase agreement with JP Development Group and FOCAL Investments LLC would supply water for the Key Site 1 Townhomes development. It ties new housing to the city's water supply.
State Cross-Connection/Backflow Mandate for Homeowners
A new state rule means roughly 1,500 homes built since 2011 with fire sprinklers may need backflow devices — costing homeowners several hundred dollars to install plus $50-$200 a year to test. The council punted the ordinance to June 16, wanting more answers on costs and outreach.
Wastewater master plan peer review
The council quietly approved a contract with Black and Veatch to peer-review the city's wastewater master plan — a behind-the-scenes step in planning future sewer and water infrastructure.