Hollister council members Monday supported a $30 million water plan, a $44 million budget and an $89 plaque.
Council members unanimously approved the long-discussed “Hollister Urban Area” plan meant to improve water quality, with a shared cost among three agencies estimated at $30 million. The approval was a precursor to an Aug. 5 meeting where council members are set to vote on a proposed doubling of the city water rates, to pay for the series of projects such as a treatment plant on the west side, over a six-year period.
Council members Monday OK’d the partnership with the Sunnyslope and San Benito County water districts. It involves a series of water improvement projects largely intended to lower salt content, increase reliability for the supply and protect the groundwater basin. Officials supporting the project argue that it will help the area meet required quality standards and reduce the need for people to buy bottled water.
Council members Monday endorsed the $30 million water project expenditure and they also approved the annual budget for 2013-14, which starts July 1. The total budget, as approved Monday, is estimated at $44.17 million, with general fund spending of $17.41 million.
Otherwise, Airport Director Mike Chambless offered a report on this year’s Hollister Airshow. In its fourth year, the event lost about $1.250. As for the event’s timing, Chambless recommended against wishes of the airport commission – which favors the Memorial Day weekend, as it stands – and suggested the council hold the event over Father’s Day weekend.
Toward the end of the presentation, Councilman Robert Scattini presented a plaque to Chambless to laud him for organizing the event over the four years. He made a point to say that the plaque was funded through donations.
“I can tell you the city did not spend one nickel for this plaque,” Scattini said.
Council members agreed to discuss potential Hollister Airshow dates at a future meeting.
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