In a nod to regional cooperation, the City of Pleasanton and the Zone 7 Water Agency have reached a settlement over a legal dispute that initially surfaced in early 2024. The contention revolved around the collection of water connection fees, a crucial revenue stream for Zone 7's operations, which the agency alleged Pleasanton had under-collected by upwards of $18 million due to new water meter installations. On July 17, 2024, both parties came to an agreement which not only settles their differences but reemphasizes their joint dedication to managing water resources within the community.
The discord began when Zone 7 filed a lawsuit against the City, accusing it of not fully collecting the appropriate connection fees after a 2016 upgrade to ultrasonic water meters with advanced features for automatic reading and leak detection. Despite Zone 7's allegations, Pleasanton has stood by its fee collection practices, asserting that its actions were in line with the original 1972 agreement between the two entities. Gerry Beaudin, Pleasanton's City Manager, remarked in a statement that the agreement represents "our desire to move forward in partnership, focus on the future, and continue addressing regional water challenges together," evidence of the agencies' intention to smooth over past conflicts, as reported by the City of Pleasanton.
Under the terms of the settlement, detailed in a statement from the City of Pleasanton, changes are afoot. The existing fee collection agreement will be revised for clearer guidance on responsibilities, and Pleasanton will finish replacing its water meters within three years. Additionally, the settlement includes a financial commitment to Zone 7's PFAS Treatment Project, with the City contributing $250,000 from lawsuits pertaining to PFAS substances, and a $500,000 credit earmarked for future Zone 7 land acquisitions for this project or others in the city.
Moving past the lawsuit, both entities have set their sights on joint initiatives like the Joint Groundwater Well Study, which is assessing the viability of constructing additional wells to enhance local water control. This focus on collaborative measures showcases an interest in shoring up defenses against drought, planning for long-term water supply sustainability, and fostering environmental conservation. "We appreciate the opportunity to resolve this matter outside of court and in a way that allows both agencies to continue serving our shared community," Beaudin added, indicating a common resolve to turn the page on this chapter and write a future underscored by partnership, according to the City of Pleasanton.
