AgdaPkt 2006-08-28 - Laserfiche WebLink

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98 REPORT Page 1 To the Honorable Mayor and City Council From the City Manager August28,2006 Subject Matters of Council Interest: Bay Area Water Forum Recommendation By resolution, authorize the Mayor to sign the Memorandum of Understanding in support of the Bay Area Water Forum Background In 2000, the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) Executive Board established a CalFed Task Force. In 2004, the Task Force was restructured to form the Bay Area Water Forum (the Forum). The Forum includes elected officials, stakeholder groups, and members of non~governmental organizations from the region. One of the goals of the Forum is to foster regional cooperation between water agencies and to increase the chances that local water projects and programs can compete effectively for state grants under Proposition 50. The Forum is now independent of ABAG, and at a recent meeting the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to create a greater sense of partnership among Forum participants was finalized. A list was compiled of participating organizations and agencies which were deemed ready to take the MOU to their leadership for adoption. Council member Aguirre is the City Council's representative on the Forum, and is seeking Council support so that Redwood City is able to be a signatory to the MOU. Signing this MOU represents an important milestone for Redwood City and for the Forum. It reinforces that the Forum is a "partnership" among agencies and organizations with responsibilities for ~ and interests in - Bay area water resources. It demonstrates that while the region is comprised of local governments, special districts and interest groups with specific needs and responsibilities, it is essential to work together for the long term benefit of both local jurisdictions and the Bay area as a whole. Additionally, it recognizes the reality of existing and emerging trends that place greater emphasis on regional cooperation and solutions to water resources issues and the allocation of the state's financial resources. Specifically, the Bay Area Integrated Regional Water Management Plan must be adopted in January 2007 (see attached fact sheets). Attached is the resolution, the final version of the MOU, and the 2006 Work Plan for the Forum. Since the goals and objectives of the Forum's MOU are consistent with Redwood City's water supply policies, and participation in the regional process will continue to provide grant funding opportunities for Redwood City, It is recommended that City Council authorize the Mayor to sign the MOU on behalf of Redwood City. Page 1 of 2 - .-.....