URGENT UPDATE: The Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District has just authorized a contract for up to $50,000 to examine the controversial Suisun Expansion Plan, as officials scramble to address potential sewer issues tied to the large-scale development. This decision follows a review of annexation materials previously deemed complete by Suisun City staff.
The Board of Directors’ meeting revealed growing tensions over the timeline set by Suisun City for comments on the plan, with General Manager Jordan Damerel emphasizing the need for comprehensive responses. “We can’t start that conversation if we don’t make comments on their planning application,” Damerel stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Concerns were raised by Suisun Mayor Alma Hernandez, who pointed out existing sewer problems at One Lake, a nearby development. “We need to do due diligence on issues that arise,” she urged, insisting on a clear buffer for current residents. Meanwhile, Fairfield City Councilmember Scott Tonnesen noted that the developer had previously funded its own Environmental Impact Report, questioning whether taxpayer funds should support the current review.
The Suisun City Council faces mounting pressure as the clock ticks down to a 30-day comment deadline on the annexation. Councilmember Princess Washington challenged the district’s expenditure, stressing the importance of fiscal responsibility. Damerel responded that the scale of this project required external consulting help, unlike previous reviews typically handled in-house.
Former Solano County Supervisor Duane Kromm, a vocal critic of California Forever, warned district officials about potential financial implications, suggesting that developers should bear their own costs. “This entire California Forever proposal is unprecedented on so many levels,” he cautioned, urging against approving the plan without thorough scrutiny.
In a heated exchange, councilmembers debated the implications of the proposed contract. Jim DeKloe, another opponent, called for a delay on the vote, arguing that California Forever had not sufficiently engaged with the board and that many details were still unresolved. “All of this has been done behind closed doors,” he claimed, expressing distrust in the developer.
The tension culminated when Hernandez proposed granting Damerel authority to finalize the contract pending a Memorandum of Understanding from California Forever. She emphasized the need for clarity on whether the developer would reimburse the district, cautioning that without this assurance, future collaboration might be in jeopardy. “If they say no, that really is an issue that needs to be a higher conversation,” she stated.
Fairfield Mayor Catherine Moy expressed her discontent with the district’s predicament, attributing it to California Forever’s actions. “I cannot vote to spend $50,000 of our current rate payers’ money on this,” she insisted, highlighting her commitment to protecting her constituents.
The board ultimately voted on Hernandez’s motion, which passed 5-3, allowing the district to proceed with hiring consultants to evaluate the expansion plan. This decision marks a significant step in a developing story that could reshape the future of sewer management in the region.
As this situation unfolds, residents and stakeholders are urged to stay updated on the developments surrounding the Suisun Expansion Plan and its implications for local infrastructure and taxpayer funds.
