Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Long Beach public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in water utilities with high priority
Homelessness and health grant funding
Multiple grants are up for acceptance — $11 million for Continuum of Care homeless services, $7.3 million for Black Infant Health, plus youth homelessness and other health program funding. Mostly state and federal money flowing into local services.
Dredging project approval and October start
Public Works will give an update at the November MAC meeting. The project is reportedly on track for January/February completion, though high tides have slowed ramp work — the old concrete was built 'like a World War II fortification.'
Groundwater Treatment Plant valve rehabilitation
A $3.6 million construction contract and a $782,684 construction management contract support Phase 2 of valve rehabilitation at the Groundwater Treatment Plant, which treats a key share of the city's drinking water.
Port of Long Beach Water System Transfer
An amended agreement between the Harbor and Utilities boards would move portions of the Port's water distribution system to the utilities side. It's a behind-the-scenes asset shuffle that affects who runs which water pipes.
State water conservation mandates
The state's 'Making Water Conservation a California Way of Life' framework kicks in for compliance in 2027, and Long Beach utilities will need to hit multiple milestones on indoor, outdoor, and water-loss standards.
FY 2026 water and sewer capital program
A $1.6 million contract keeps the ongoing sewer rehabilitation and replacement program moving, reducing the risk of spills and failures in aging pipes.
Haynes pipeline delay and Seal Beach franchise dispute
Construction began in May to supply recycled water to LADWP's Haynes Generating Station, which must stop using ocean water for cooling by 2029. The plant could use up to a third of the city's recycled water, prompting exploration of additional supply from the Los Coyotes reclamation plant.
FY 2026-27 water and sewer rate increases
Long Beach is proposing a 6% water increase and 8% sewer increase, adding about $5.74 a month to a typical single-family bill starting October 1. The commission cleared the Prop 218 hurdle Thursday, and the City Council makes the final call September 8. Residents pushed back, citing fixed incomes and rising costs.