Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in East Palo Alto public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in water utilities
SAFER Bay flood protection project costs and timeline
The levee/flood project protecting the city from bay flooding would get extended engineering contracts through 2031 and a construction management budget increase of roughly $148,000.
Water system capital payments to Veolia
The city will reimburse up to $296,110 for water system repairs from ratepayer funds, and staff committed to better benchmarking of these recurring costs going forward.
Water Storage Tank Siting
The city has zero potable water storage and needs 3 million gallons on top of planned tanks. EKI's draft study recommends advancing three sites — the former RV park on Woodland Avenue, the former library site on Pulgas Avenue, and the city-owned Tanklage site — with the Tanklage site emerging as the council favorite since the city owns it and it sits outside the flood and sea-level-rise zone.
Urban water supply and drought planning
The state-required water plan shows adequate normal-year supply through 2050 but potential worst-case dry-year shortfalls up to 47%; the city is exploring groundwater expansion.
EPASD FY 2026-27 budget and rate pressure
The Sanitary District is projected to run a $1.8 million operating deficit; covering it through rates could add roughly $180–$200 a year for residential customers now paying about $660. Formal adoption comes June 16.