Encinitas, CA — Today, OMWD’s Board of Directors was honored by Special District Leadership Foundation for reaccreditation as a “District of Distinction–Platinum Level,” SDLF’s highest accreditation. This designation recognizes OMWD’s commitment to responsible financial management, ethical leadership, and transparency in all areas of its operations.
Special districts are local governments that deliver specialized services such as water, fire protection, and sanitation. There are 2,000 independent special districts in California, and only 14 have achieved District of Distinction at the platinum level. OMWD was the first water district in San Diego County to achieve the District of Distinction accreditation in 2008.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Olivenhain-Logo-Square.jpg200200Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-04-15 18:57:092026-04-15 18:57:09OMWD Earns “Platinum” Award for Leadership and Transparency
After more than 50 years of reliable service to East San Diego County, the Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility was decommissioned in a community ceremony on April 8, attended by elected officials, water industry leaders, and members of the community.
As a pioneer in water reuse, the Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility addressed critical water supply challenges, improved pollution control, and enhanced recreational opportunities at Santee Lakes during its 50-year operation. It serves as a model for sustainable water management both locally and globally, and exemplifies the principle that water is too precious to be used just once.
Ray Stoyer, former General Manager of the Santee County Water District, paved the way for this award-winning facility and was a true trailblazer in advancing water reuse. The facility was dedicated in his honor in 2011.
The facility was relocated to its current site just north of Santee Lakes in 1967, laying the foundation for future growth. In 1997, it was renovated to expand its capacity, producing up to two million gallons of recycled water daily to support Santee Lakes and other non-potable uses throughout the community.
Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility Legacy Continues
The end of an era for the Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility. Pictured in the distance are the new East County AWP facilities, representing the next chapter for East San Diego County’s water supply. Photo: Padre Dam Municipal Water District
“The Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility has been a cornerstone of water sustainability in East County for more than half a century,” said Kyle Swanson, General Manager and CEO of Padre Dam Municipal Water District. “Its legacy of innovation has set the standard for responsible water reuse.
“While we honor this incredible facility, we are excited to continue its pioneering spirit with the East County Advanced Water Purification (AWP) Program, providing reliable potable water for our community for generations to come,” added Swanson.
Kyle Swanson, CEO/General Manager of Padre Dam Municipal Water District, speaks to attendees at the official decommissioning of the Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility. Photo: Padre Dam Municipal Water District
Rob Northcote, Operations Manager for the East County AWP Program, began his career at the facility in 1997. “The Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility has always been more than a workplace. I’ve been honored to be part of a facility distinguished by its history, innovation, and depth of expertise.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see its legacy continue, as the dedication of those who worked here will help guide the East County AWP Program into the future.”
New Water Recycling Facility Currently Under Construction
The East County Advanced Water Purification (EWP) Program will create a local, sustainable, and drought-proof drinking water supply using state-of-the-art technology to purify recycled water. It will treat up to 16 million gallons of wastewater per day, producing roughly 11.5 million gallons of purified potable water daily- enough to supply up to 30 percent of the region’s drinking water. Once operational, it will be one of California’s first surface water augmentation programs- bridging the region’s legacy to a leading-edge future.
The Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility has provided 50 years of reliable service, achieving multiple milestones. Data: Padre Dam Municipal Water District
Construction is currently underway on a new Water Recycling Facility, as part of the East County Advanced Water Purification Program, which will be one of the first surface water augmentation projects in California. It will have the capacity to treat up to 16 million gallons of wastewater per day and produce 11.5 million gallons of purified drinking water daily. This is enough to supply up to 500,000 people.
In late 2026/early 2027, the Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility is slated for demolition. This marks the transition to a new era of water reuse. The existing chlorine contact basin and recycled water pump station will be repurposed to support the new plant and ongoing delivery of recycled water to East County customers.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/decommis-4-8-2026-cn--033.jpg7201080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-04-14 07:34:592026-04-14 07:34:59Pioneering Water Recycling Facility Decommissioned After Half Century Of Service
Encinitas, Calif. — Today, Olivenhain Municipal Water District, San Elijo Joint Powers Authority, and Leucadia Wastewater District received California Water Environment Association’s statewide award for Community Engagement and Outreach Program of the Year. The award recognizes the success of the agencies’ 2025 Water Career Day.
The Water Career Day event brought together water and wastewater professionals, high school and community college students, and military veterans. Participants explored various career paths through interactive stations and demonstrations.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/OMWD-SF-SD-Trio-Logo.jpg500500Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-04-09 14:29:412026-04-09 14:29:41North County Water and Wastewater Agencies Receive Statewide Award for Community Engagement
The Helix Water District and invited guests celebrated the opening of its newly upgraded Operations Center in El Cajon, which has been transformed into one of California’s most advanced electric fleet charging hubs. The $11 million project will deliver cleaner air and cost savings for East County residents.
Helix Water District is among the first public agencies to build out its charging infrastructure to meet the California Air Resources Board’s Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation, taking effect in 2030. Local and state public agencies must replace medium- and heavy-duty trucks and equipment with zero-emission models. Fifty percent of new vehicle purchases must be zero emissions by 2027; 100% of vehicle purchases by 2030.
The facility features 87 high‑capacity chargers and nearly six megawatts of power. It meets new California vehicle emission mandates and maintains around-the-clock emergency readiness.
Twenty-eight counties, cities, water districts, and other public agencies came to Helix’s Nat L. Eggert Operations Center on March 27 to attend the ribbon cutting, followed by facility tours and a trade show with the companies involved in its construction. Electric medium- and heavy-duty trucks and equipment were also displayed.
“Helix is clearly ahead of the game,” said Helix Water District Board President Kathleen Coates Hedberg. “Our board saw the impact of this regulation early on. We made the decision to build vehicle charging infrastructure to power our fleet into the future and allow us to serve our customers for decades to come.
“As a civil engineer with a background in public health, I am truly humbled to be part of this project and the impact it will have on our community. Our district’s forward thinking and innovation will help keep East County healthy and thriving, and we are proud to show you what we have accomplished.”
Electric Vehicles Deliver Cost Savings
By converting its fleet and providing the charging infrastructure to support it, Helix expects to see continued cost savings from a zero-emissions fleet. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
According to the California Air Resources Board, trucks make up just six percent of vehicles on California roads but generate more than 35% of nitrogen oxide emissions and 25% of on‑road greenhouse gas emissions.
By converting its fleet and providing the charging infrastructure to support it, Helix expects to see continued cost savings from a zero-emissions fleet as well as a reduced impact on air pollution.
“The data from our current fleet show that fuel costs for an electric vehicle are one-fifth the fuel costs of a gas or diesel vehicle,” said Helix Water District Operations Director Kevin Miller.
Charging Infrastructure Designed For Critical Infrastructure Operations
The infrastructure includes 87 chargers, from 40 to 640 kilowatts, manufactured by Heliox and Autel. The largest can recharge medium- and heavy-duty trucks in an hour. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
Helix operates a fleet of 100 vehicles, from cars and pickup trucks to medium and heavy-duty vehicles, including three-axle dump trucks, backhoes, and skip loaders. The charging infrastructure is designed and engineered to meet four core operational requirements common to many public agencies, including 24-hour emergency response and limited charging during peak hours to take advantage of reduced electricity rates.
Helix also stipulated that it would not add vehicles or staff to compensate for the time spent charging.
The infrastructure includes 87 chargers, from 40 to 640 kilowatts, manufactured by Heliox and Autel. Most are installed overhead. This minimized the need for trenching, which increases construction costs and offers flexibility in daily operations and parking. The larger Autel 640-kilowatt MaxiCharger can recharge medium- and heavy-duty trucks in an hour.
Collaboration Helps Lower Project Costs
Helix Water District officials collaborated with the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District, San Diego Gas and Electric and the California Energy Commission to successfully execute the upgrades. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
When planning the project, Helix Water District officials reached out to the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District, San Diego Gas and Electric, and the California Energy Commission to strategize collaboration on the project. The agencies provided more than $10.2 million in grants and rebates, ensuring the project would have minimal impact on water rates.
The grant funding enabled Helix to build the full charging system upfront at a cost savings. Additional savings will come from shared use of the charging system by neighboring cities and public agencies, which will be tracked with software to allocate and recover costs for the district.
The collaborative approach will provide a roadmap for other public agencies planning their own compliance with the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation.
“This is one of many projects that Helix has done as a sustainable but also fiscally responsible leader in water and energy,” said Kathleen Coates Hedberg. “Twenty years ago, we installed our solar (power) system, and now we’re doing electrification. This is just the beginning of becoming a better steward of our environment.”
The Helix Water District provides water treatment for 500,000 people in San Diego’s east county suburbs and distributes drinking water to 279,000 people in the cities of La Mesa, El Cajon, and Lemon Grove, and the Spring Valley, Mt. Helix, and Lakeside communities.
The Climate Registry recognized Helix Water District as a Water-Energy Leader Gold organization in 2023, and the district was named a Certified Green Business by the Green Business Network in 2025.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ops-center-tour-4933.jpg7201080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-04-07 07:21:292026-04-07 07:21:29Helix Water District Opens Model EV Charging Hub At El Cajon Operations Center
Vista, CA — Today, the Vista Irrigation District commemorated Special Districts Week to encourage District customers to be involved in their community and be civically engaged with their local government. Special Districts Week, April 5 to April 11, 2026, will be established by the State Legislature with approval of Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 161.
ACR 161 is sponsored by the California Special Districts Association (CSDA), a statewide association representing over 1,300 special districts and affiliate organizations throughout the state.
As spring temperatures rise, the East County AWP Program enters a key phase of the project. The majority of work at the main Santee construction is nearing completion. This year begins with a wave of important new milestones and updates.
A new sign has been installed outside the future Education Center. This building will welcome visitors for educational programs. It will also house the lab and administrative offices, making it a hub for learning, innovation, and daily operations. This building is on track for lab staff to begin moving in and occupying in late spring.
Learn more about recent updates in this video presentation.
Sewer Pipeline Infrastructure Progress Report
Construction to install a new nine-mile residuals pipeline and rehabilitate an eight-mile sewer pipeline is moving forward. Work is currently underway in Mission Trails Regional Park, along Mission Gorge Road, and on Camino Del Rio North.
To date, approximately 32,000 linear feet of pipeline have been installed- representing roughly one-third of the total alignment for this phase of the project. In Mission Trails Regional Park, work is about 25% complete.
(photo caption with yellow structures) Pipeline installation on Mission Gorge Road just east of the Mission Vista Drive intersection.
Mission Trails East Entrance Closed to Vehicles
The vehicle gate at the east end of Mission Trails Regional Park near Bushy Hill Drive is closed through the end of this month. This temporary closure is in place to safely complete pipeline installation on this end of the park.
Vehicles cannot access the Old Mission Dam parking lot. Pedestrians and bicyclists are still able to pass through the gate
Visitors can still use the dirt parking lot at the corner of Bushy Hill Drive and Father Junipero Serra Trail, as well as nearby street parking.
New Detour to Enter Mission Trails Regional Park’s West Entrance
Be informed about road detours off Mission Gorge Road near the west entrance to Mission Trails Regional Park. Photo: ECAWP
Pipeline work near the Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor Center necessitates road closures affecting motorists. Currently, the left-hand turn from Mission Gorge Road onto Father Junipero Serra Trail is closed. Detours in place allow access to the park.
Regular vehicles:
Drive to Golfcrest Drive, make a U-turn at the light, and then turn right onto Father Junipero Serra Trail to reach the Visitor Center.
Large vehicles (including school buses):
Turn right onto Jackson Drive
Turn left onto Navajo Road
Turn left onto Golfcrest Drive
Turn left onto Mission Gorge Road
Then turn right onto Father Junipero Serra Trail to reach the Visitor Center
Final Pipeline Work Underway at Santee Lakes
Crews are preparing to install the final run of wastewater pipeline at Santee Lakes for the East County Advanced Water Project. Photo: ECAWP
Crews are preparing to install the final run of wastewater pipeline at Santee Lakes, marking a major milestone in this important infrastructure project. This is the last 3,500 feet of pipeline essential to the project.
A portion of the west road is temporarily closed to vehicle traffic. The road remains open to pedestrians, so visitors can still enjoy Santee Lakes on foot.
This 36-inch pipeline will be installed using horizontal directional drilling from the west side of Lake 1 to the East Mission Gorge Pump Station at the corner of State Route 52 and Mission Gorge Road.
Horizontal directional drilling is being used instead of traditional open-cut construction to preserve the environment, including the San Diego River and a nearby golf course that the pipeline crosses.
Revitalizing the Former Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility Site
Changes are coming to the former site of the Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility as the East County AWP works toward completion. Photo: East County AWP
After the Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility was decommissioned by Padre Dam Municipal Water District last fall, the East County AWP Program is repurposing the original site.
Key structures are being repurposed, including the existing chlorine contact basin (the covered tank visible in the top of the photo), which has been disinfecting water for plant washdowns and recycled water distribution since 1997.
The recycled water pump station is also being upgraded with new plant washdown pumps, a modern electrical service, and an emergency generator. This pump station will continue to serve recycled water to customers.
Excavation is underway for new electrical duct banks, and a new sodium hypochlorite chemical feed station is being installed.
The remaining structures on the site are scheduled for demolition later this summer.
Interactive Map Helps Residents Stay Updated On Program Progress
When completed, water from this project will provide potable water to customers in Padre Dam Municipal Water District, Helix Water District, and Lakeside Water District service areas, and the northern portion of the Otay Water District. It has now reached 48,500 views.
With construction in multiple locations throughout East County, the Program’s interactive map offers a useful tool for residents and businesses to track where work is happening. The map is updated regularly and accessible 24/7 through the EastCountyAWP.com website. Information is also available via social media at @eastcountyawp
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ecawp-march-2026-admin-sign.jpg7201079Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-04-01 07:48:222026-04-01 07:48:22East County AWP Reaches Key Phase of Project in Spring 2026
Encinitas, CA — Fitch Ratings reviewed OMWD’s financial position and confirmed that OMWD will maintain its AAA bond rating. OMWD’s revenue bonds have held the AAA rating since 2016, which validates OMWD’s creditworthiness and financial stability.
A bond rating is an evaluation of an institution’s credit quality and financial strength. A AAA rating is the highest grade awarded by Fitch Ratings, a global rating agency that provides independent credit opinions. The AAA rating helps demonstrate that OMWD continues to provide a high level of service to its ratepayers while budgeting appropriately and managing its finances responsibly.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Olivenhain-Logo-Square.jpg200200Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-03-11 16:07:422026-03-11 16:07:42OMWD Maintains AAA Bond Rating for 10th Consecutive Year
The City of Oceanside will begin construction on the second phase of its downtown water and sewer pipeline replacements project beginning the week of March 9. This project is the second of a five-phase program to replace aging water and sewer mains throughout the downtown Oceanside area.
Phase I located between Neptune and Pier View Way included the replacement of 2.5 miles of water and over 1.5 miles of sewer infrastructure.
Construction on Phase II will begin in the alley located south of Meyer Street and north of Pacific Street.
The Phase II Project includes the replacement of over three miles of sewer pipelines and over 2.5 miles of water infrastructure. It also expands the City of Oceanside’s recycled water system in downtown with nearly a mile of new pipe.
Modernizing Water and Sewer Utilities in Oceanside
The project map displays the locations of Phase II water and sewer pipeline replacements. Photo: City of Oceanside
“The City of Oceanside is excited to begin construction on the Downtown Water and Sewer Replacement – Phase 2 project,” said Neil Irani, Senior Civil Engineer for the City of Oceanside. “This project is the second phase of our program to replace aging and undersized water and sewer utilities throughout the downtown Oceanside area.
“Over the next couple of years, approximately three miles of sewer and 2.5 miles of water will be replaced with modernized materials. The project will also expand the recycled water system in the downtown area, continuing Oceanside’s commitment to sustainable water sources. This investment in our utility infrastructure is critical to maintain safe and reliable water and sewer service for our customers,” explained Irani.
Aging Pipeline Replacements Prevent System Failures
Many of the water and sewer mains scheduled for replacement in this project are at an advanced age. Some of the sewer mains are approaching 100 years old, well past their expected useful life.
The old pipelines were made of cast iron. Replacement pipelines are made of polyvinyl chloride pipes. The city will also replace hydrants, water meters, and manhole covers.
This project will continue the City of Oceanside’s commitment to updating the water and sewer systems to current standards while ensuring sufficient capacity to meet the area’s growing needs. The City will also add additional recycled water customers as part of the system expansion, including public, commercial, and mixed-use residential properties.
Recycled water is non-potable water typically used for irrigation. Developing recycled water sources is an important part of Oceanside’s commitment to provide customers with sustainable and alternative water sources.
Minimizing Disruptions To Oceanside Community
Work on this project will be restricted to daytime hours, and will pause during busy summer months to avoid disruptions. Photo: City of Oceanside
The Phase II construction is expected to last approximately two years. Traffic throughout construction areas will generally be maintained at all times. Road closures or detours with impacts to the public will be allowed as night work only.
Daytime work is restricted from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with additional restrictions in the busiest areas. No work will be allowed west of Myers Street during the busy summer season.
Work will also be restricted during popular annual events and weekly markets in the downtown area
Nearby properties will receive advanced notice through door hangers. Water and sewer service will be maintained, with short, planned interruptions also communicated in advance through door hangers. There will also be regular updates in the City newsletter, The Oceanside Tide, as the project progresses.
The project cost is approximately $30 million and is funded through previously budgeted capital improvement program funds and state and federal grants.
Please visit the Oceanside Water Utilities webpage for updates on the project. Residents and business owners with questions about the project or traffic impacts can call representatives (760) 435-5930 or email " class="external" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> for project-related questions.
Encinitas, CA — Olivenhain Municipal Water District and partners invite the public to attend a free Native Plants and Waterwise Landscaping Workshop. The workshop will be held on Saturday, March 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., in OMWD’s boardroom, located at 1966 Olivenhain Road in Encinitas.
Steve Sherman from California Landscape Technologies will explain how to choose attractive, waterwise, low-maintenance, and non-invasive plants. Native plants naturally thrive in San Diego’s soils and climate. They also support pollinators like bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.
Encinitas, CA — Olivenhain Municipal Water District accepted California Water Environment Association San Diego
Section’s 2025 Collection System of the Year Award for its 4S Ranch and Rancho Cielo collection system at CWEA’s
awards event on January 31, 2026. The award acknowledges excellence in sewer system management.
This recognition is awarded to agencies that demonstrate high performance in system reliability, regulatory compliance,
and environmental stewardship. CWEA judging criteria include administrative and operating procedures, safety and
training programs, and emergency response.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Olivenhain-Logo-Square.jpg200200Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-02-02 15:22:432026-02-02 15:22:43OMWD Wins Collection System of the Year Honors
