SOLUTIONS & INNOVATIONS

District is now able to comply with all CEQA requirements for any given project in a streamlined and cost-effective manner. This saves time and money on each project the District is working on.”

The adoption of the Programmatic Environmental Impact Report by the Rainbow Municipal Water District has proven to be a game-changer for streamlining CEQA compliance. By encompassing the entire scope of its water and sewer systems, and not simply its five-year CIP as most agencies do, the District has set an example for other organizations to follow. The time and cost savings achieved through PEIRs, combined with their significant contribution to environmental protection and streamlined project delivery, are noteworthy.

One of the key advantages of utilizing PEIRs is the early engagement with stakeholders. The District has actively involved neighboring Native American Tribes and sought their feedback and consultation throughout the PEIR development process. This commitment to engagement and transparency strengthens relationships with the Tribes and fosters collaborative decision-making, leading to better project outcomes and community support.

Rainbow Municipal Water District General Manager Tom Kennedy emphasizes the benefits of the PEIR approach, stating, “The traditional project-by-project method of CEQA compliance is time-consuming and expensive. With our innovative approach to analyzing the whole system at once, we will deliver value to our ratepayers, saving both time and money.”

The benefits of this approach, ranging from substantial time and cost savings to enhanced environmental protection, position PEIRs as a valuable tool for other special districts seeking to streamline their project processes. Other special districts can learn from Rainbow Municipal Water District’s experience and consider implementing PEIRs to achieve similar benefits, improving efficiency, and delivering value to their constituents. With PEIRs, special districts can effectively manage environmental considerations while focusing on providing essential services to their communities.

Learn more at the CSDA Annual Conference & Exhibitor showcase breakout session, “Save Money and Time with Programmatic Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs).”