HomeMy WebLinkAboutPackets - Water Utillity Commission (71)AGENDA
WATER UTILITY COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
September 14, 2026
HOPI CONFERENCE ROOM
11000 N. LA CAÑADA DRIVE
REGULAR SESSION AT OR AFTER 5:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
CALL TO AUDIENCE - at this time, any member of the public is allowed to address the Commission on any
issue not listed on today’s agenda. Pursuant to the Arizona open meeting law, individual Commission
members may ask Town staff to review the matter, ask that the matter be placed on a future agenda, or
respond to criticism made by speakers. However, the Commission may not discuss or take legal action on
matters raised during "Call to Audience." In order to speak during "Call to Audience", please specify what
you wish to discuss when completing the blue speaker card.
REGULAR SESSION AGENDA
1.REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF THE AUGUST 10, 2026 REGULAR SESSION MEETING MINUTES
2.TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS/COMMUNICATIONS (COUNCILMEMBER MURPHY)
3.PRESENTATION ABOUT PROPOSITION 431:OV'S PATH FORWARD, THE COMMUNITY'S NEXT
10-YEAR ACTION PLAN (M. SIMMS)
4.UPDATE AND DISCUSSION OF THE BUREAU OF RECLAMATIONS RECORD OF DECISION FOR
THE POST 2026 DECISION FRAMEWORK FOR COLORADO RIVER GUIDELINES (M. BASEFSKY)
5.UPDATE AND DISCUSSION ON TENTATIVE WATER RESOURCE UTILIZATION PLAN FOR 2027 (P.
ABRAHAM)
6.DIRECTOR'S REPORT
CALL TO AUDIENCE - at this time, any member of the public is allowed to address the Commission on any issue
not listed on today’s agenda. Pursuant to the Arizona open meeting law, individual Commission members may ask
Town staff to review the matter, ask that the matter be placed on a future agenda, or respond to criticism made by
speakers. However, the Commission may not discuss or take legal action on matters raised during "Call to
Audience." In order to speak during "Call to Audience", please specify what you wish to discuss when completing
the blue speaker card.
ADJOURNMENT
POSTED: 9/11/26 at 5:00 p.m. by ck
When possible, a packet of agenda materials as listed above is available for public inspection at least 24 hours
prior to the Commission meeting in the Town Clerk's Office between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Town of Oro Valley complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If any person with a disability
needs any type of accommodation, please notify the Town Clerk’s Office at least five days prior to the Commission
meeting at 229-4700.
INSTRUCTIONS TO SPEAKERS
Members of the public have the right to speak during any posted public hearing. However, those items not
listed as a public hearing are for consideration and action by the Commission during the course of their
business meeting. Members of the public may be allowed to speak on these topics at the discretion of the
Chair.
If you wish to address the Commission on any item(s) on this agenda, please complete a blue speaker card located
on the Agenda table at the back of the room and give it to the Recording Secretary. Please indicate on the
speaker card which item number and topic you wish to speak on, or if you wish to speak during “Call to
Audience,” please specify what you wish to discuss when completing the blue speaker card.
Please step forward to the podium when the Chair announces the item(s) on the agenda which you are interested
in addressing.
1. For the record, please state your name and whether or not you are a Town resident.
2. Speak only on the issue currently being discussed by the Commission. Please organize your speech, you will
only be allowed to address the Commission once regarding the topic being discussed.
3. Please limit your comments to 3 minutes.
4. During “Call to Audience”, you may address the Commission on any issue you wish.
5. Any member of the public speaking must speak in a courteous and respectful manner to those present.
Thank you for your cooperation.
“Notice of Possible Quorum of the Oro Valley Town Council, Boards, Commissions and Committees: In accordance
with Chapter 3, Title 38, Arizona Revised Statutes and Section 2-4-4 of the Oro Valley Town Code, a majority of the
Town Council, Board of Adjustment, Historic Preservation Commission, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board,
Stormwater Utility Commission, and Water Utility Commission may attend the above referenced meeting as a
member of the audience only.”
Water Utility Commission 1.
Meeting Date:09/14/2026
Submitted By:Meagan Ackerson, Water
SUBJECT:
REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF THE AUGUST 10, 2026 REGULAR SESSION MEETING MINUTES
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION:
I MOVE to approve the August 10, 2026 regular session minutes.
Attachments
8-10-2026 Draft Minutes
D R A F T
MINUTES
WATER UTILITY COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
August 10, 2026
HOPI CONFERENCE ROOM
11000 N. LA CAÑADA DRIVE
REGULAR SESSION AT OR AFTER 5:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Michael Smejkal called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present: Rebecca Badruddoja, Commissioner
Alan Forrest, Commissioner
Greg Hitt, Commissioner
Joe Hornat, Vice Chair
Steven Linder, Commissioner
Michael Smejkal, Chair
Niranjan Vescio, Commissioner
Staff Present: Peter A. Abraham, Water Utiltiy Director
David Allred, Water Operations Manager
Lee Jacobs, Water Engineering Division Manager
Mary Rallis, Water Utility Administrator
Attendees: Mary Murphy, Council Liaison
CALL TO AUDIENCE
There were no speaker requests.
REGULAR SESSION AGENDA
1.REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF THE MAY 1, 2026 STUDY SESSION MINUTES AND MAY 11, 2026
REGULAR SESSION MEETING MINUTES
Motion by Vice Chair Joe Hornat, seconded by Commissioner Steven Linder to approve the May 1, 2026 study
session meeting minutes.
Vote: 7 - 0 Carried
Motion by Vice Chair Joe Hornat, seconded by Commissioner Steven Linder to approve the May 11, 2026
08/10/26 Minutes, Water Utility Commission Regular Session 1
Motion by Vice Chair Joe Hornat, seconded by Commissioner Steven Linder to approve the May 11, 2026
regular session meeting minutes.
Vote: 4 - 0 Carried
Commissioner Badruddoja, Commissioner Forrest and Commissioner Hitt abstained from voting on the
motion to approve the May 11, 2026 meeting minutes due to the fact that they were not present at the
May 11, 2026 meeting.
2.TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS/COMMUNICATIONS (COUNCILMEMBER MURPHY)
Councilmember Mary Murphy provided the following updates:
Community Academy Registration
Police Main Station progress continuing
Oro Valley Marketplace construction continues
Stormwater and Flood Mitigation Projects
Upcoming Town Council Meeting
3.UPDATE AND DISCUSSION ON CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS (L. JACOBS)
Water Engineering Division Manager Lee Jacobs provided the following updates regarding the Water
Utility's Capital Improvement Projects (CIP):
Capital Projects Scheduled and Completed in 2025-2026
Reservoir Rehabilitation and Planning
Water Plant (WP-14) Reservoir Rehabilitation
El Conquistador 8-inch Ductile Iron Pipe Interconnect
Well D-9 Rehabilitation
La Canada Two Zone ("F" & "G") Booster Construction
Booster Station Construction Completed and Operational
NWRRDS Independent Transmission Main Projects
NWRRDS Partnered Transmission Main Project
NWRRDS Independent Twin Peaks Booster Station
Capital Projects Scheduled for Fiscal Year 2026-2027
Discussion ensued among the Commission and Water Engineering Division Manager Lee Jacobs and
Water Utility Director Peter A. Abraham.
4.UPDATE AND DISCUSSION ON WATER OPERATIONS (D. ALLRED)
Water Operations Manager David Allred provided an update on Water Operations Activities:
OVWU Water Operations and additional core functions
Water Operations Administration
FY 2026/2027 Emergency Response Plan (ERP)
Water Production Activities
Reservoir Inspections 2026
Water Production Activities - ADC Inmate Work Program
Water Control Systems Activities
Programmable Logic Controller and Instrumentation Upgrades
Completed Upgrades
FY 2026/2027 Planned Upgrades
Water Distribution Activities
Water System Maintenance and Repairs
08/10/26 Minutes, Water Utility Commission Regular Session 2
Water Meter Operations Activities
Meter Maintenance
Water Conservation Activities
Water Conservation
Discussion ensued among the Commissioners and Water Operations Manager David Allred and Water
Utility Director Peter A. Abraham regarding Water Operations activities.
5.UPDATE AND DISCUSSION ON WATER QUALITY (D. ALLRED/A. PENCE)
Water Operations Manager David Allred provided an update on Water Quality:
Regulatory Agencies
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ)
EPA Sampling Requirements
Non-Regulated Sampling
Other Sampling Information
Monitoring Changing Rules
2025 Water Quality Results
2025 Consumer Confidence Reporting
Backflow Prevention Program
What is Backflow Prevention
Backflow Assemblies
Compliance Monitoring
Discussion ensued among the Commission and Water Operations Manager David Allred.
6.UPDATE AND DISCUSSION ON WATER UTILITY FINANCIALS (M. RALLIS)
Water Utility Administrator Mary Rallis provided financial updates on the following topics:
Financial Update - Fiscal Year 2025/26 - Revenues
Financial Update - Fiscal Year 2025/26 - Expenses
Customer Service Update - Through 6/30/26
Discussion ensued among the Commission and Water Utility Administrator Mary Rallis and Water Utility
Director Peter Abraham regarding the Water Utility Financials.
7.UPDATE AND DISCUSSION ON WATER RESOURCE USAGE (P. ABRAHAM)
Water Utility Director Peter Abraham provided the following water resource updates:
Oro Valley Main Service Area Jan - June Water Use by Type
Countryside Service Area Jan - June Water Use by Type
Discussion ensued among the Commission and Water Utility Director Peter Abraham and Water
Operations Manager David Allred regarding water resource usage.
8.DIRECTOR'S REPORT
Water Utility Director Peter Abraham provided the following updates:
08/10/26 Minutes, Water Utility Commission Regular Session 3
Water Utility Director Peter Abraham provided the following updates:
Upcoming Meetings
Colorado River System Reservoir Status
Water News
Discussion ensued among the Commission and Water Utility Director Peter Abraham.
CALL TO AUDIENCE
There were no speaker requests.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Chair Michael Smejkal, seconded by Vice Chair Joe Hornat to adjourn the meeting at 6:50 p.m.
Vote: 7 - 0 Carried
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the regular session of the
Town of Oro Valley Water Utility Commission of Oro Valley, Arizona held on the ____ day of
____________________, 2026. I further certify that the meeting was duly called and held and that a quorum was
present.
___________________________
Meagan Ackerson
Senior Office Specialist
08/10/26 Minutes, Water Utility Commission Regular Session 4
Water Utility Commission 3.
Meeting Date:09/14/2026
Requested by: Bayer Vella, Community and Economic Development
Submitted By:Milini Simms, Community and Economic Development
SUBJECT:
PRESENTATION ABOUT PROPOSITION 431:OV'S PATH FORWARD, THE COMMUNITY'S NEXT 10-YEAR ACTION PLAN (M. SIMMS)
RECOMMENDATION:
This item is for information and discussion purposes only.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The purpose of this item is to update the Water Utility Commission on the adoption process for OV's Path Forward. Proposition 431: OV's Path
Forward will be on the ballot this November. This is Oro Valley's General Plan that was created by residents and must be approved by
residents. If it earns residents' votes, it will set goals, policies, and actions to guide the town's future.
The goals and actions cover a variety of topics that influence Oro Valley's quality of life, like safety, views, parks, roads, and more. This
includes specific "water resource and conservation" goals, policies, and actions:
Goal S: Water Use Efficiency — Promote and increase efficient water use. Examples of actions the Town will be tasked with
completing include: increasing awareness and updating the Town's approved plant list, providing resources and education about
different rainwater harvesting techniques, ceasing irrigation along roadways and at Town facilities after plant establishment.
Goal R: Water Resource Planning — Increase responsible use of water resources for the current and future benefit of the
community. Associated actions include, but are not limited to: participating in regional and statewide drought planning efforts, continuing
to review and strategically update the tiered water rate and price of water to encourage conservation, educate the community about the
importance, use and cost of water resources.
A Resident Created Plan
The goals, policies and actions identified in the plan are based on the 10,700+ contributions residents provided over the past three years (see
Attachment 1). Residents shared their values and ideas during events, online discussions, surveys, and meetings. The number of contributions
set a historical precedence for the town and the region. It also shows how dedicated OV residents are to ensuring the Town upholds their
values and expectations for the future.
Help Spread the Word
Residents participated in the BIG Community Survey, the BIG Community Review, and now it is time for the BIG Community Vote. The Town
cannot advocate but may raise awareness and educate residents about the plan. The following methods and tools are being implemented as
part of Phase 3: Residents Decide.
New signs along roadways and multi-use paths
Postcard mailers to Oro Valley households
Flyers posted around the community
PDF copies of the plan are available at the library, Community & Recreation Center and Town Hall
Social media posts
Press releases
Newsletters (Vista, OV Path Forward, and more)
Articles and ads in the Northwest Explorer and OV Style
Resident testimonials and educational videos
FAQs and voter pamphlet information
Presentations to HOA's and other organizations
Informational booths at the Farmers Market, events, etc.
Additionally, OV's Path Forward will be included with the Town's broader marketing for general election information and a focal point of this
year's Community Academy program. Community Academy offers residents a fun and interactive way to learn more about Town services. Each
year, class topics are chosen based on community interest, the previous years' evaluations and current events. Examples of class topics
include town finances, development, traffic, water, parks, tourism, public safety and more.
For the past two years, time has been dedicated to each class to discuss the plan's guiding principles, goals, policies, or actions related to the
class topic. Similarly, this year will offer participants a chance to familiarize themselves with the plan and ask questions before they cast their
vote. This year's class topics and schedule are available HERE. The program starts on September 15, but there is still time to register.
Everyone's Help is Needed!
Residents can help spread the word by:
Passing out flyers
Following and sharing OV's Path Forward on Facebook or Instagram
Encouraging neighbors and friends to sign up for the monthly e-newsletter by registering on OVPathForward.com
Requesting a presentation for your HOA or local group. Please contact OVPathForward@orovalleyaz.gov to submit a request.
Know Before You Vote. Please visit OVPathForward.com to read the plan, see the full list of priorities, and answers to frequently asked
questions (Attachment 2). Your vote can determine the many goals, policies, and actions that will guide the Town over the next 10 years.
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
Please see the Executive Summary.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Not applicable.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
This item is for information and discussion purposes only.
Attachments
Know Before You Vote
ATTACHMENT 1 - OV'S PATH FORWARD WATER FAQ
ATTACHMENT 2 - KNOW BEFORE YOU VOTE
1
Water Utility Commission
September 14, 2026
2
Oro Valley’s General Plan – On the ballot November 3
Sets goals, policies, and actions to guide the Town’s future.
Reflects resident priorities and values that influence OV’s quality of life.
Safety
Arts and culture
Parks and trails
Environment
Climate and energy
Water
Housing
Transportation
Development
The process starts and ends with
residents.
Resident Driven-Process
Community
Engagement Plan(January – Sept. 2023)
•Residents helped create a brand that
resonated with the community
•Residents helped plan the methods
and tools to engage the community
Phase 1: Let’s Talk
(Oct. 2023 – Dec. 2024)
•Residents shared their values, priorities, and
expectations for Oro Valley’s future
•Residents improved the
vision statement and guiding
principles
Phase 2: Let’s Think
(Jan. 2025 – July 2026)
•Residents set a specific course of action to fulfill
their vision for the future
•Residents reviewed multiple
drafts of the Plan
Phase 3:
Residents Decide
(Aug – Nov. 2026)
•Residents will vote on the plan in November
Phase 3: Residents Decide
Goals:
Empower residents to vote on the plan
Raise awareness
Educate residents about the plan
Marketing and outreach:
Roadway signs
Postcards and Flyers
PDF copies available
Social media
Press releases
Newsletters (Vista, OV Path Forward, OV Play,
etc.)
Resident testimonials
Articles and Ads
Resident testimonials and educational videos
Presentations to HOA’s and groups
Community Academy
Date Class
Tues., September 15 Welcome: Oro Valley today and the residents’ plan for the future
Thurs., September 17 Maintaining Financial Stability and Services
Tues., September 22 Annexations
Thurs., September 24 Oro Valley’s History and Public Art
Tues., September 29 Economic Development and Tourism
Thurs., October 1 Development and Roadways
Thurs., October 8 Public Safety: Oro Valley Police Department & Town Courts
Tues., October 13 Parks, Recreation and Trails
Thurs., October 15 Water Resource Planning and Conservation
Mon., October 19 Beyond Community Academy: Volunteering in Oro Valley
Wed., October 21 Graduation at Town Council
A fun, interactive, and free program about Town services and topics important to the
community.
“I believe that participation in the Community Academy has given me great insight into the Town and how it functions.”
Register online at www.orovalleyaz.gov.
2025 graduate
Know before you vote
The plan serves as a commitment between the Town and residents.
Includes 286 specific actions to implement over the next 10 years.
100% of the actions in the current plan have been addressed.
Request a presentation for your HOA or group
Stay engaged and spread the word!
Follow, like, or share on social media
#OVPathForward
Receive and forward the “OV Path Forward”
newsletter
Read the plan
OVPathForward.com
Display copies available at Town Hall, OV Public Library and the Community and Recreation
Center
Summary
Visit OVPathForward.com
Questions? Contact OVPathForward@orovalleyaz.gov or 520-229-4836
OV’s Path Forward will be on your ballot November 3.
It’s a 10-year plan that sets goals, policies, and actions to guide the Town’s future.
It was written by residents and must be approved by residents.
It reflects residents’ values and priorities for safety, water use, development, and more!
“Maintain water availability.”
“Expand programs and increase community
resources about water conservation.”
It includes resident-created goals, policies, and actions that guide the Town to:
Residents said they value and prioritize:
The plan reflects these values and priorities:
Increase responsible use of water resources for thecurrent and future benefit of the community.
Increase awareness and education about water use andconservation.
Know Before You Vote:
What does OV's Path Forward say about Water Resources and Conservation?
Proposition 431 on the ballot Nov. 3
Thousands shared their voice through surveys, events, meetings, and online forums.
?!....
Who created OV’s Path Forward?
Oro Valley residents. Residents contributed over 10,700
comments to create the Plan. They shared ideas,
participated in online discussions and meetings to craft the
vision statement, establish guiding principles, and set the
goals, policies, and actions that ensure the Plan balances the
needs and perspectives of a diverse community.
Why is OV’s Path Forward important?
What is OV’s Path Forward?
This is Oro Valley’s General Plan that was created by residents and must be approved
by residents. If it earns your vote, it will set goals, policies, and actions that guide the
Town over the next 10 years.
Proposition 431: OV’s Path Forward
Read the plan on OVPathForward.com.
Know Before You Vote:
The plan reflects residents’ goals and priorities that will influence OroValley’s quality of life. It signifies a commitment between the Town andresidents to uphold your values, priorities, and expectations by including aset of specific actions that will be implemented over the next 10 years. The goals, policies, and actions cover the following topics:Public SafetyCommunity character, arts, and cultureParks, recreation, and trails EnvironmentClimate and energyWater resources and conservationEconomic development and tourismTransportationHousingLand Use
Each action includes a responsible Town department and timeframe forcompletion. These timeframes act as guides that may be re-prioritizedthrough the Town’s strategic planning process.
Oro Valley’s General Plan’s get results! 100% of the actions from thecurrent plan have been addressed.
Your vote can determine the many goals, policies, and actions
that will guide the Town over the next 10 years.
Vote
BALLO
T
PR
O
P431
OV’s Path Forward cannot be put into effect unless approved by the
voters. If the Plan is not approved in this election, the existing 2016
Your Voice, Our Future Plan remains in effect until the voters
approve a new plan.
Proposition 431: OV’s Path Forward
Know Before You Vote:
No. OV’s Path Forward does not create new taxes or set the Town’s budget. Instead, it providesdirection to help residents, stakeholders, elected officials, and Town staff make decisions over thenext decade.
How is OV’s Path Forward different from the current plan?
OV's Path Forward builds on the community's core values from the current General
Plan, including safety, scenic views, natural open space, and an outdoor lifestyle. It
also adds new goals and priorities the community voiced about housing, water
resources, gathering spaces, and other important topics.
What happens if the plan is not approved by the voters?
Will OV’s Path Forward increase taxes?
What does the plan say about growth?
With limited land available for development, the Plan emphasizes targeted growth and redevelopment
opportunities that achieve harmony with the natural environment. It prioritizes community goals such as
limiting building heights, enabling a variety of housing types with emphasis on opportunities for home
ownership, conserving open space, and encouraging more retail, restaurants, and gathering spaces.
1. Read the online version on OVPathForward.com.
2. Starting September 1 , stop by the Oro Valley Public Library, Community
and Recreation Center, or Town Hall to see print version.
Read the plan before you vote.
Water Utility Commission 4.
Meeting Date:09/14/2026
Requested by: Peter Abraham, Water Submitted By:Meagan Ackerson, Water
SUBJECT:
UPDATE AND DISCUSSION OF THE BUREAU OF RECLAMATIONS RECORD OF DECISION FOR THE POST
2026 DECISION FRAMEWORK FOR COLORADO RIVER GUIDELINES (M. BASEFSKY)
RECOMMENDATION:
N/A
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION:
This item is for update and discussion only.
Attachments
Update and Discussion on Colorado River Guidelines
YOUR WATER. YOUR FUTURE.
Oro Valley Water Utility Commission
Mitch Basefsky
Stakeholder Outreach Coordinator
September 14, 2026
2
Outline
•Post 2026 Record of Decision
•2027-2028 Operating Guidelines
•Lower Basin Reductions
•Impact on CAP Deliveries
•Q&A
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines3
Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision
•Published on July 31, 2026
•Identified and analyzed the Preferred
Alternative
•Published on August 21, 2026
•Adopts the Decision Framework based on the Preferred Alternative
4
Record of Decision (ROD)
•Approves the adoption of the 2027-2036 Decision Framework (based
on the preferred alternative in the FEIS) that establishes the
operational principles, sideboards and a process to govern the
development and issuance of operating guidelines for Lakes Powell
and Mead
•Operating Guidelines are anticipated to be issued at 2-year intervals,
unless a different number of years is determined to be appropriate
•Decision process for operational years 2029/30 begins no later than
October 2027
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines5
Decision Framework – Operational Principles
•Operations should be responsive to hydrology
•Critical federal infrastructure must be protected through practical and
deliberate operations (Lake Powell power pool)
•Operating guidelines should implement the LROC while also providing
directions to address extraordinary circumstances
•Operating guidelines should prioritize consensus-based recommendations
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines6
Decision Framework– Sideboards
Operational Element Operational Ranges
Lower Basin Shortage Guidelines •Up to 3.0 maf to provide protection of critical infrastructure at Hoover Dam in dry hydrologic conditions
•Allocation of shortages would be based on applicable law, including the Consolidated Decree. Deviations from applicable law would occur only if water entitlement holders have reached voluntary arrangements
•Consultation if projected Lake Mead elevation < 1,000 ft to determine additional reductions to Lower Basin water deliveries
Coordinated Reservoir
Operations •5 – 12 maf Lake Powell WY releases to provide adequate protection for critical infrastructure at Glen
Canyon Dam and sufficiently high releases necessary to avoid spill avoidance releases
•Consultation if projected Lake Powell elevation < 3,500 ft to determine potential additional actions
Storage and Delivery of
Conserved System and Non-
system Water
•Lake Powell: up to 3 maf
•Lake Mead: up to 8 maf ( supports existing ICS, new ICS-type program, conservation pools and exchange mechanisms)
Lower Basin Surplus Guidelines •Up to 500 KAF in addition to Flood Control and Quantified Surplus
Additional Activities Above Lake
Powell
•Potential for maximum use of CRSP UIU within their respective RODs to release additional water to protect critical infrastructure
• Voluntary Upper Basin contributions up to 200 kaf per year subject to hydrologic conditions
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines7
ROD Decision Framework - Concerns
•Sets framework to cut Lower Basin up to 3 MAF using a federal
interpretation of “priority”, while ignoring Colorado River Compact
obligations
•No Upper Basin reductions and selective, limited, discretionary use of
Upper Initial Units (UIUs), ignoring Compact requirements that are
reinforced by federal law
•Significant concerns that Reclamation did not consider alternative ways to
protect infrastructure
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines8
2027-2028 Operating Guidelines
•Establishes operating criteria for years 2027 and 2028
•Contemplates actions that rely upon necessary implementing and parallel
agreements (i.e. a Lower Basin implementing agreement, agreement
concerning CRSP UIU drought operations etc.) which shall become
effective upon execution by the Secretary and necessary non-federal
parties.
•If necessary parties do not reach consensus on proposed operational
measures or agreements, the Secretary will implement the 2027-2028
Operating Guidelines consistent with their interpretation of the Law of the
River to fulfill the Secretary’s statutory responsibilities, protect Federal
interests, and ensure continued system operations.
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines9
2027-2028 Operating Guidelines
•Includes criteria for Lake Powell operations
•Limited but undefined use of the Colorado River Storage Project UIUs
•Elements of Lake Mead operations:
•Reductions to Lower Basin water users
•Storage and delivery of conserved water (ICS) in Lake Mead
•Voluntary conservation activities (700+ Plan)
•Implementation of Federally Managed Water Resources Pool (FMWRP)
•Reconsultation when Lake Mead is projected to be at 1,010 feet
•In combination with a Lower Basin Agreement, could provide short-term
stability for Lower Basin water users
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines10
Oct 1 Projected Elevation Range of Releases Adjustments
Upper Elevation Range
3,565’ ≥
7.5 – 8.23+ MAF
•If projected Powell elevation 3,510’ adjust downward to ≤
minimum of 6.0 MAF
•If projected Powell elevation 3,565’ adjust upward half of ≥volume > 3,565’
•If projected Powell elevation 3,500’ CONSULTATION≤
Mid Elevation Range < 3,565’ and 3,540’≥ 7.0 – 8.0 MAF
Low Elevation Infrastructure Protection Range < 3,540’
6.0 – 7.0 MAF
•May include adjustments to the October-April monthly release pattern if needed to maintain a target of 3,510’
•UIU releases are commensurate 1:1 (up to a maximum of 1 MAF) when Powell release < 7.0 MAF
Extraordinary Circumstances <3,500 > 5 MAF •Consult regarding potential further actions to protect critical infrastructure at Glen Canyon Dam
Operation of Lake Powell – Releases
11
Operational Determinations for 2027
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines
Lake Powell
•Low Elevation Infrastructure Protection Range
•Initial WY Release: 6 MAF – 7 MAF
•Releases adjusted to maintain 3,510’
•Releases adjusted through April based on changing conditions
•Final WY 2027 release will be determined in April
Lake Mead (requires Lower Basin agreement)
•Water deliveries to the LB will be reduced by 1.25 MAF in CY 2027
•Additional water will be conserved in 2026, 2027, and 2028 (700+ Plan)
•ICS may be created pending completion of forthcoming implementation
agreements consistent with the Operating Guidelines
•Water may be delivered for tribal firming or other Federal delivery obligations to
Tribes and to provide limited offsetting of Tribal shortages, subject to availability
and ICS delivery limitations
Lower Basin Reductions 2026-2028
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines
Proposed Lower Basin Reductions
13
Arizona California Nevada Total Lower
Division States
2027 760 KAF 440 KAF 50 KAF 1,250 KAF
2028 760 KAF 440 KAF 50 KAF 1,250 KAF
Total Reductions
2027-2028 2,500 KAF
Voluntary Conservation2026-2027-2028 300 KAF 300 KAF 100 KAF 700 KAF1
Total Reductions and Conservation 1,820 KAF 1,180 KAF 200 KAF 3,200 KAF
1The Lower Division States anticipate working to a target of a cumulative contribution of 1 MAF if possible.
YOUR WATER. YOUR FUTURE.
•Lower Basin commitment to additional conservation is termed the 700+ plan
•Arizona has committed to 300 KAF of the 700 KAF Lower Basin commitment,
which is referenced as the 300+ plan
•CAWCD Board approved (July 2026) several Bucket 1A SCIAs for CAP
Participating Subcontractors that will count towards the 300+ plan
•Several Arizona on-river contractors are participating towards the 300+ plan
•Concurrently, the Arizona Water Banking Authority policy will incentivize M&I
Subcontractor participation in 2027 and 2028
14
700+ Plan assuming Lower Basin Agreement
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines
YOUR WATER. YOUR FUTURE.
15
Impact on CAP Deliveries
16
Lake Powell August
2026
24-Month Study
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines
•Operating in Low
Elevation Infrastructure
Protection Range,
based on EOWY
elevation
•Two most probable
runs with a 6 MAF and
7 MAF release will be
run September through
March
17
Lake Mead
August 2026
24-Month Study
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines
•Lake Mead is operating
in a shortage condition
with 1.25 MAF of Lower
Basin reduction in CY
2027
•A shortage condition is
also projected in CY
2028
18
Impact of Lower Basin Reductions assuming a Lower Basin
Agreement
•760 KAF reduction to Arizona’s
Colorado River supply
•CAP is working to identify
additional resources to reduce
impacts
•20 KAFY from Yuma wells and 40
KAFY from Lake Pleasant
•Portion to On-River P4 TBD
•The estimated cut to M&I Priority is
14% and Indian Priority is 10%
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines
0
200,000
400,000
600,000
800,000
1,000,000
1,200,000
1,400,000
1,600,000
Acre Feet
P3
Other Excess
NIA Priority
Ag Pool
M&I PriorityIndian
Priority
M&I Priority
Shortage
14%
Indian Priority
Shortage
10%
Ag Pool
Shortage
100%
NIA Priority
Shortage
100%
M&I Priority
86%
Indian
Priority
90%
Preliminary data and analysis; for illustrative purposes only
19
P4 Shortage Sharing
•USBR has been implementing the 2006 ADWR Director’s Shortage Sharing
Recommendation, which provides methods to calculate the “Fourth Priority
Mainstream Shortage Reduced Water Supply”, and is expected to continue to do so
•If current use of on-River P4 is less than the Fourth Priority Mainstream Shortage
Reduced Water Supply, there is no shortage reduction to P4 mainstream contractors
and shortages fall exclusively on CAWCD
•Condition existed 2020 through 2026
•If current use of on-River P4 is more than the Fourth Priority Mainstream Shortage
Reduced Water Supply, part of the reductions fall on P4 on-River water users
•Will occur with a reduction of 760 KAF to Arizona
•USBR and ADWR will be engaging with on-River P4 contractors for further discussion
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines
YOUR WATER. YOUR FUTURE.
2026 AWBA Commission Approved Policies
20
Distribution of LTSCs for Firming CAP M&I Subcontractors (2026-01)
•1-year extension of the 2019 DCP Firming Policy (through 2027)
•Based on water orders for 2027
•Contingent upon Lower Basin agreement to share reductions
Distribution of LTSCs for Participation in the 700+ Plan (2026-03)
•Will provide LTSCs for system conservation contributed to the 700+
plan (1:1)
•CAP M&I Subcontractors are eligible
•Ad valorem tax credits only
•No LTSC distribution for monetarily compensated conservation
•Will require uncompensated system conservation agreements
•Effective through December 31, 2028
Post-2026 ROD & 27-28 Operating Guidelines
YOUR WATER. YOUR FUTURE.
Questions?
Oro Valley Water Utility Commission
Mitch Basefsky
Stakeholder Outreach Coordinator
September 14, 2026
Water Utility Commission 5.
Meeting Date:09/14/2026
Requested by: Peter Abraham, Water Submitted By:Meagan Ackerson, Water
SUBJECT:
UPDATE AND DISCUSSION ON TENTATIVE WATER RESOURCE UTILIZATION PLAN FOR 2027 (P.
ABRAHAM)
RECOMMENDATION:
N/A
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION:
Item is for update and discussion only.
Attachments
Staff Presentation
Peter A. Abraham, P.E.
Water Utility Director
Water Utility Commission Meeting
September 14, 2026
Oro Valley Water Utility
Update & Discussion on Tentative
Water Resource Utilization Plan for
2027
OVWU 2027 Water Resource Utilization Model Projection
Ground
Water
11,435.77 AF/Yr. Permitted Per 2027 DAWS
Reclaimed Water
1,800 AF Estimated Entitlement
CAP Water
10,305 AF/Yr. Allocated 8,862 AF delivered in 2027 represents a 14% cut
Projected Water Deliveries
Long Term Storage Credits
29,500 AF
Groundwater Allowance Account
30,000 AF
AZ Water Bank
600,000 AFStored in the TAMA
CAGRD
Member
3,500 AF Projected Delivery 2,000 AF Projected Delivery
Replace 4,500 AF of groundwater pumped Conservation
4,500 AF Projected Delivery
2,305 AF Projected stored in 2027
1,443 AF Shortage firming in 2027 to offset 14% cut
Advanced Water Purification
Thank You
Water Utility Commission 6.
Meeting Date:09/14/2026
Requested by: Peter Abraham, Water Submitted By:Meagan Ackerson, Water
SUBJECT:
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
RECOMMENDATION:
N/A
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION:
This item is for information only.
Attachments
Director's Report
Peter A. Abraham, P.E.
Water Utility Director
Water Utility Commission Meeting
September 14, 2026
Oro Valley Water Utility
Director’s Report
Upcoming Meetings
September 16, 2026 Town Council Regular Session
Council Chambers @ 6 p.m.
October 2, 2026 SAWUA Water Forum
TCC @ 8 a.m.
See Flyer
October 7, 2026 Town Council Regular Session
Council Chambers @ 6 p.m.
October 12, 2026 Water Utility Commission Meeting
Hopi Room @ 5 p.m.
October 16, 2026 State of the Town
Hilton El Conquistador
SAWUA Water Forum 2026
Thank You