Dear Cambrians,

I hope this message finds you well. We are pleased to announce that the Board has officially approved staff’s final draft of the Project Description for the Coastal Development Permit Application for the Water Reclamation Facility to the County of San Luis Obispo. This significant milestone marks a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to achieve a permanent Coastal Development Permit.  We thank everyone who participated in the planning and approval process, including community members, consultants, regulatory agencies, and our CCSD Board. The input and support have been invaluable in shaping a plan that reflects our shared vision for a sustainable and resilient Cambria. As we move forward with the permitting process, we remain committed to maintaining open lines of communication with the community. Just to let you know, regular updates will be provided to keep you informed of progress and upcoming opportunities for involvement.

Administration & Finance Departments

Utility Billing Customer Portal

The CCSD launched our brand-new Utility Billing Customer Portal, designed to make managing your utility account online more convenient and efficient. It’s important to remember that signing up to use the new utility billing customer portal is free. However, customers who wish to make credit or debit card payments on the portal will be charged a flat 3.70% fee. Residents already enrolled in our Autopay Program (Direct Debit) via their bank account do not need to re-enroll on this site. They will still have all the other great benefits of creating a utility billing customer portal, and their Autopay will continue to be automatically drafted on the due date.

Here’s what you can expect from our portal:

1. Easy Online Payments: Pay your water and sewer bill quickly and securely from the comfort of your home.
2. Account Management: You can easily view your billing history, track your usage, and update your account information. 
3. Paperless Billing: Sign up for paperless billing and help us make our efforts to go green.
4. Notifications and Reminders: Set up alerts for due dates, payment confirmations, and other important notifications.
5. User-Friendly Interface: Our portal is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate, ensuring a seamless experience.

Getting Started is Simple:

1. Visit our Utility Billing Customer Portal.
2. Register Your Account: Follow the instructions for your new portal account.
3. Explore Features: Once registered, you can explore all the new features available to you.

This portal will significantly enhance your experience and provide the tools you need to manage your utility billing services efficiently. The CCSD Administrative Office also accepts debit and credit card payments for your utility bill. Tyler Technologies charges the customer a flat 3.70% fee with no maximum transaction amount.

Should you have any questions or need assistance with the portal, our customer service team is here to help. You can reach us at (805) 927-6223 or visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Need Assistance with Registering for the Portal? 

On Monday, June 24, 2024, the Administrative Department Manager Denise Fritz and Confidential Administrative Assistant Haley Dodson will be at the Cambria Veterans' Memorial Hall, located at 1000 Main Street, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to assist with account registration. In an effort to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of our records, we kindly request that you bring the following information:

1. Your Utility Billing Account Number 
2. Amount of Your Last Utility Bill

CCSD Notice of Intent to Fill Resources & Infrastructure Committee Member Vacancy 

On June 13, 2024, notice was given that the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) is accepting applications to fill one (1) seat on the Resources & Infrastructure Standing Committee. Applicants must live and be registered to vote within the CCSD boundaries.

The selected candidate will serve until February 1, 2025. The CCSD Board of Directors will consider all applications and appoint a Resources & Infrastructure Standing Committee Member to fill the vacant term at the Regular Board meeting on July 11, 2024, commencing at 1:00 p.m. in a hybrid, in-person/virtual format. Members of the public may participate and provide public comment on agenda items during the meeting in person at the Veterans' Memorial Hall at 1000 Main Street, Cambria, CA, 93428, by joining the Zoom meeting or by submitting written correspondence to boardcomment@cambriacsd.org. 

Resources & Infrastructure Standing Committee applications can be delivered to the Cambria Community Services District administration office or drop boxes located at 1316 Tamsen Street, Suite 201, Cambria, California 93428, mailed to Cambria Community Services District, Attention: Haley Dodson, PO Box 65 Cambria, CA 93428 or emailed to Haley Dodson.  

To obtain an application, download one here.

Facilities & Resources Department

Contact Facilities & Resources Manager

To submit general inquiries, or to report any issues on the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, public restrooms, Cambria Dog Park, or to schedule a meeting with Facilities and Resources Manager Aguirre, please submit your inquiries or concerns here: https://www.cambriacsd.org/contact-facilities-resources-c617054.

Cambria Fire Department

Contact Fire Chief

To submit general inquiries or to schedule a meeting with Chief Burkey, please submit your inquiries or concerns here: https://www.cambriacsd.org/contact-fire-chief.

Meet the Fire Chief

On Monday, July 22, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Fire Chief Michael Burkey will be working out of the Cambria Veterans' Memorial Hall and would love to meet you and hear your thoughts on anything related to the Cambria Fire Department. 

Fire Captain Recruitment

The Cambria Community Services District is accepting applications to create a qualifying employment list for the Fire Captain position. We are preparing for staff retirement over the next year. For more information, please visit our website.

Each year, the Cambria CSD Fire Department conducts a Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program (FHFRP) to abate vegetation and hazardous wildland fire fuels. The FHFRP is carried out pursuant to the authority contained in Government Code Sections 61100(d) and (t) and Health and Safety Code Sections 14875 et seq. and is initiated by the CCSD Board of Directors adoption of a resolution declaring the vegetation and hazardous wildland fire fuels on the identified properties to be a public nuisance. In this respect, it should be noted that the definition of “weeds” in Health and Safety Code Section 14875 includes “Dry grass, stubble, brush, litter, or other flammable material which endangers the public safety by creating a fire hazard.”  

This annual requirement is an effort to reduce the fire hazard caused by the accumulation of combustible materials on vacant parcels. Keep in mind that the forest helps define Cambria, and it is important that we reduce the fire hazard without destroying its ability to regenerate. Make every effort to protect seedlings, young native trees, ferns, and bushes by marking them prior to cutting. Property owners are required to clear all combustible vegetation and/or debris from their property by the deadline of July 15, 2024.

As the summer season approaches, we remind all residents of the upcoming weed abatement deadline. Please be advised that no extensions will be granted for this requirement.

The deadline for completing all weed abatement on your property is July 15, 2024. This annual requirement is an effort to reduce the fire hazard caused by the accumulation of combustible materials on vacant parcels. Keep in mind that the forest helps define Cambria, and it is important that we reduce the fire hazard without destroying its ability to regenerate. Make every effort to protect seedlings, young native trees, ferns, and bushes by marking them before cutting.

Key Points to Note:

• Deadline: All weed abatement must be completed by July 15, 2024. To clarify, even if your lot was cleared earlier this year, you will most likely have re-growth. If so, your property may have to be weed abated again to pass inspection. 
• No Extensions: No extensions will be granted beyond this date. Additionally, no matter what you may have been told by any contractor, there are no such things as “extensions” beyond the deadline of the 15th. 
• Compliance: Properties that do not meet the requirements will be subject to penalties and abatement by the district’s contractor, Paradise Tree Service, at the property owner's expense. The cost for abatement for each parcel includes the contractor’s service charge, plus a $100.00 administrative charge if paid within 90 days of receiving a bill, or a $200.00 administrative charge if paid later. The CCSD is not responsible for the contractor’s charges. 

Steps to Ensure Compliance:

1. Inspect Your Property: Regularly check for overgrown weeds. In this respect, it should be noted that the definition of “weeds” in Health and Safety Code Section 14875 includes “Dry grass, stubble, brush, litter, or other flammable material which endangers the public safety by creating a fire hazard.”  
2. Remove Weeds: Safely and properly remove all weeds, especially those that are dry and pose a fire risk. 
3. Disposal: Follow the local guidelines for the disposal of yard waste and weeds.
4. Sign up for Cambria CSD Fire Department Updates: To receive updates from the Cambria CSD Fire Department on the 2024 Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program (FHFRP) or any Fire Department-related news, click the "join our mailing list" icon at the bottom of any page and subscribe to Cambria CSD Fire Department News & Updates and follow the Cambria CSD Fire Department on Instagram and Facebook. For more information on the 2024 Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program (FHFRP), please click here.
5. Meet the Deadline: All weed abatement must be completed by July 15, 2024.

We appreciate your cooperation in this matter. Maintaining our community’s safety and well-being is a shared responsibility, and your prompt attention to weed abatement is crucial.

If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Cambria CSD Fire Department at (805) 927-6240.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.

To receive updates from the Cambria CSD Fire Department on the 2024 Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program (FHFRP) or any Fire Department-related news, click the "join our mailing list" icon at the bottom of any page and subscribe to Cambria CSD Fire Department News & Updates and follow the Cambria CSD Fire Department on Instagram and Facebook.

On April 11, 2024, the Cambria Community Services District (“CCSD”) Board of Directors adopted Resolution 04-2024 declaring that noxious, dangerous, seasonal, and/or recurring weeds were growing upon or in front of your property and, more particularly described in said Resolution and that the same constitute a public nuisance which must be abated by the removal of said noxious, dangerous, seasonal and/or recurring weeds; otherwise, they will be removed and the nuisance abated by the CCSD Fire Department authorities, in which case the cost of such removal shall be assessed upon the lots and lands from which or in front of which such weeds are removed and such cost will constitute a lien upon such lots or lands until paid. Reference is hereby made to said Resolution for further particulars.

On May 9, 2024, the Cambria Community Services District (“CCSD”) Board of Directors awarded the Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program Agreement to Paradise Tree Service.

On July 25, 2024, the Cambria Community Services District (“CCSD”) Board of Directors will hold a Public Hearing ordering the abatement of Public Nuisance for the Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program.

The following are guidelines to help you comply:

• Remove combustible construction materials and trash from the property.
• Trim weeds and annual grasses to 4 inches in height. Avoid exposing bare soil or creating a situation that would encourage erosion.
• All downed trees and rounds or dead limbs within 30 feet of any structure must be removed. Tree stumps fallen over shall be cut and retain no more than six feet of the log within this 30-foot zone.
• All downed trees beyond 30 feet from any structure 12 inches in diameter or greater may remain on the parcel. However, the entire trunk must be completely on the ground. Materials less than 12 inches in diameter shall be cut and removed from the property.
• All standing dead trees that pose a safety risk to improved property and/or infrastructure shall be removed.
• Remove ladder vegetation from under trees and shrubs, maintaining 6 feet of vertical clearance for trees greater than 20 feet in height.
• All Poison Oak, Scotch/Irish/French or other broom-type plants, Pampas grass, Jubata grass, and (Crocosmia) also known as Fire Weed, shall be removed. Isolated specimens may be left with greater than ten (10) feet separation, and all dead material removed. 

The owner of record of the property at the time of notification is responsible for the clearance of the parcel. Property owners having clearance done by local contractors will need to work closely with their contractor to ensure your parcel gets inspected by the CCSD Fire Department. Those parcels not in compliance by the July 15, 2024, deadline will be placed on a list to be abated by the CCSD’s contractor. The cost for abatement for each parcel includes the contractor’s charge for services, plus a $100.00 administrative charge if paid within 90 days of receiving a bill or a $200.00 administrative charge if paid later. The CCSD is not responsible for the contractor’s charges. 

The Cambria CSD and the Cambria Fire Department do not endorse any specific contractor or agency, are not responsible for the work performed or the fees charged by these contractors, and assume no responsibility or liability for both satisfactory and/or non-satisfactory work conducted by these contractors. Below is a list of contractors provided to the property owners of Cambria as a public service for their convenience.

The Cambria CSD Fire Department will inspect your parcel(s) to ensure compliance with the FHFRP ordinance. Parcels not cleared by the deadline will be placed on the CCSD contract list, and all associated costs and fees will be billed directly to you.   

For more information on the 2024 Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program (FHFRP), please click here.

Water & Wastewater Departments

New Wastewater Department Employee

Christien McManus joined us as the Wastewater Collection System Maintenance Worker on June 17, 2024. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Santa Cruz. We are ecstatic to have him join the Wastewater Department. Welcome, Christien! 

Van Gordon Creek Property

Cambria CSD Fire Department emergency personnel removed a large oak tree branch that had fallen into the Van Gordon Creek home. Additionally, weeds were removed from around the 100-foot perimeter of the house. This included trees that were overgrown into the home, shed, and sidewalk area. ServPro recently evaluated the interior for the air quality and clean-up process, and work will begin on June 24, 2024.

June 13, 2024, Regular Board Meeting Update 

For a more detailed Board meeting transcript, go to https://www.cambriacsd.org/2024-06-13-board-meeting. 

• The Board of Directors approved extending the Agreement for Consultant Services with Moss, Levy & Hartzheim for Professional Auditing Services in the performance of the District's FY 23/24 Audit.
• The Board of Directors adopted Resolution 14-2024, establishing the 2024/2025 rate adjustments to water and sewer rates.
• The Board of Directors adopted the Climate Change Planning and Policy recommendations by the staff and Resources & Infrastructure Committee and recommended forwarding the recommendations to the Policy Committee for the creation of a Climate Change Adaptation Policy.

June 20, 2024, Regular Board Meeting Update 

For a more detailed Board meeting transcript, go to https://www.cambriacsd.org/2024-06-20-board-meeting.

• The Board of Directors adopted Resolution 15-2024 requesting the consolidation of the Cambria Community Services District Governing Board Election with the November 5, 2024, Presidential General Election and Resolution 16-2024 adopting regulations for candidates for elective office pertaining to, and costs of, candidate statements submitted to the voters at the November 5, 2024, Presidential General Election
• The Board of Directors adopted the Cambria Community Services District's Workplace Violence Prevention Plan
• The Board of Directors adopted Policy 1055: Legislative Advocacy Policy Recommended by the staff and Policy Committee
• The Board of Directors directed staff to file the Draft Project Description with the County of San Luis Obispo Department of Planning and Building Staff for Final Evaluation, Input and Direction
• The Board of Directors adopted Resolution 17-2024 approving the CCSD Preliminary Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 and Resolution 18-2024 establishing the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Appropriations Limit
• The Board of Directors adopted Resolution 19-2024 confirming the Itemized Report to Collect Delinquent Solid Waste Collection and Disposal Charges on the County Tax Rolls
• The Board of Directors adopted Resolution 20-2024 confirming the 2023 Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program Itemized Cost Report of the Cambria Community Services District
• The Board of Directors adopted Resolution 21-2024 approving a Fire Suppression Benefit Assessment Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment at the rate of 4.5% for FY 2024/2025
• The Board of Directors approved the 2024-2025 Annual Water Shortage Assessment Report
• The Board of Directors adopted the Updated Investment Policy

Upcoming July Board Meeting Items (subject to change):

• Discussion and consideration of approval of the Zero Liquid Discharge Pilot Testing Program
• Discussion and consideration to fill the vacant seat on the Resources & Infrastructure Committee
• Discussion and consideration of extension of the Peoples' Self-Help Schoolhouse Lane Housing Project Intent to Serve Letter
• Receive update regarding the Countywide Evacuation Plan and Cambria's Fire Prevention Plan
• Consideration of adoption of a Resolution declaring equipment surplus and authorizing sale by the General Manager
• Discussion and consideration of accepting the transfer station for the San Simeon Creek Stream gage at Palmer Flats from the San Luis Obispo Flood Control Water Conservation District
• Discussion and consideration of CCSD-Owned Vehicle Policy and adoption of Resolution approving the same
• Public Hearing to discuss and consider adoption of a Resolution ordering abatement of Public Nuisance for the Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program (FHFRP)

On Monday, July 22, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., I will be working out of the Cambria Veterans' Memorial Hall and would love to meet you and hear your thoughts on everything, Cambria. We will provide coffee and snacks, and as always, I welcome your feedback and ideas. If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me or any of our management team.

Thank you again for your support; I am at your service. 

Matthew McElhenie