Flood Control - Santa Cruz LAFCO

Santa Cruz LAFCO: Countywide Service Review
Flood Protection and Stormwater Services
8) Government Structure Options
The Pajaro Storm Drain Maintenance District is a dependent special district formed to provide enhanced
stormwater drainage services to the Pajaro Watershed area excluding the City of Watsonville. The
County has recently established Zone 7A of the Santa Cruz County Flood Control & Water Conservation
District; the boundaries of Zone 7A are contiguous with those of the Pajaro Storm Drain Maintenance
District. There may be benefit to consolidating the two districts.
9) Local Accountability and Governance
The Pajaro Storm Drain Maintenance District and the services it provides are addressed by the Santa Cruz
County Board of Supervisors during regular meetings. Public notice is provided for all meetings. The
County provides information on flood protection and stormwater management on its website.
– CSA 57 – Graham Hill (Drainage Only) –
1) Population and Growth
CSA 57 currently serves a population of 14; this is expected to reach 120 by 2015 as parcels are
developed.
2) Infrastructure Needs and Deficiencies
The County operates and maintains the drainage facilities of CSA 57, including the storm drain line that
extends from the community to the outfall at the San Lorenzo River. No infrastructure needs or
deficiencies were noted for CSA 57.
3) Financing Constraints and Opportunities
CSA 57 funds its drainage services through annual parcel assessments. Future capital improvements will
be funded through the CSA’s reserves.
4) Cost Avoidance Opportunities
CSA 57 is reducing costs by using the resources of the County to administer the district and maintain and
operate the facilities.
5) Management Efficiencies
CSA 57 is achieving management efficiencies through the use of County staff and operational experience.
6) Shared Facilities
CSA 57 shares resources with the Zones 5, 6, 7A, and 8 of the Santa Cruz County Flood Control & Water
Conservation District as well as the Pajaro Storm Drain Maintenance District.
June 2005 – Public Review Draft Section 5 - 27