The City Council is poised to approve an updated Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP) as part of a compliance effort mandated by the State Water Resources Control Board. This update comes under General Order 2022-0103-DWQ, requiring all agencies operating sanitary sewer systems to develop and maintain a comprehensive management plan.

The SSMP, which outlines the operations, maintenance, and emergency response procedures of the City’s sewer system, has undergone significant revisions aimed at enhancing system reliability and preventing sanitary sewer overflows. City officials collaborated with Fischer Compliance, a specialized consulting firm, to ensure that the updated plan meets current regulatory standards and incorporates industry best practices.

“This update is crucial for improving the City’s ability to manage sewer operations effectively while also adhering to state mandates,” a City representative stated. “The revisions not only reflect operational strategies but also aim to bolster our long-term response capabilities in the event of emergencies.”

In a related update, the State Water Resources Control Board has recently reissued the Statewide Sanitary Sewer Systems General Order. This regulatory framework establishes enforceable guidelines designed to improve spill emergency response plans and enhance accountability among agencies. The order identifies critical compliance sections that agencies must prioritize to align with increased regulatory scrutiny.

The legislative backdrop includes the Clean Water Act of 1972, which establishes federal authority over water quality and pollution. The State Water Board enforces regulations that require agencies to manage and mitigate sewage spills effectively, ensuring public health and environmental protection.

As the City prepares to implement these updates, officials emphasize the importance of proactive system management, especially in light of climate change impacts and the need for accessible data regarding sewer system performance.