Dear Cambrians,

As we celebrate the Fourth of July, I want to take a moment to wish everyone in our community a safe and joyful Independence Day. This important holiday marks the birth of our nation and serves as a powerful reminder of the freedoms we are privileged to enjoy each day.

Freedom is not just an idea—it is a responsibility and a legacy, made possible by the courage and sacrifices of those who have served, and continue to serve, in our Armed Forces. We are deeply grateful to the men and women of the military who protect our liberties at home and abroad. Their dedication and sacrifice allow us to gather with family and friends in peace and security.

Happy Fourth of July!

We’d like to take a moment to share a few important updates as we enter peak wildfire season and continue investing in recreational opportunities for our youth and families.

Pending Grant Funding for Skatepark Improvements

We are excited to report that the Cambria Community Services District received the final word on the Land and Water Conservation Fund , which is approved and should be funding this month; it will provide much-needed funding for continued improvements and long-term sustainability of the Cambria Skatepark. We expect funding within the next month and will notify the community as soon as an outcome is confirmed. This grant, if awarded, will support repairs, equipment upgrades, and possibly the development of safety or shade features. Your support has been vital in keeping this community resource active and accessible.

Defensible Space & Vacant Lot Abatement

Last week, the CCSD sent out a community-wide letter regarding defensible space requirements and the recent adoption of the CCSD’s updated Weed Abatement Ordinance. This ordinance aligns with CAL FIRE and San Luis Obispo County fire safety standards and specifically addresses:

• Required clearance zones around homes and structures
• Obligations of property owners to maintain vegetation on vacant parcels
• Buffer requirements when lots abut developed parcels
• Year-round responsibility for hazardous vegetation removal

Ensuring adequate defensible space on both developed and vacant lots is one of the most effective ways to protect Cambria from catastrophic wildfire. Compliance inspections are now underway and CCSD Fire Department personnel are available to assist with questions or guidance.

Let’s Keep Cambria Safe and Thriving

Whether you’re helping clear brush from your property or supporting our local youth at the skatepark, you are part of what makes Cambria resilient and connected. We thank all those who have taken steps to improve their lots, educate their neighbors, and advocate for public safety and recreation.

Please stay tuned for further updates on the grant decision, upcoming board meetings, and additional community projects. As always, we welcome your input and appreciate your partnership in keeping Cambria safe, sustainable, and vibrant.

All properties required to complete abatement under the 2025 Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program (FHFRP) must remove excess fuels and vegetation by July 1 — no extensions will be granted.

The following are vacant parcel 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

No extensions will be granted for the 2025 Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program (FHFRP) requirement.

It is crucial that all parcel owners meet the weed abatement deadline and clear all combustible vegetation and/or debris from their property to prevent fire hazards and maintain a safe environment for everyone. While many owners hire contractors to perform this work, it is your responsibility to verify that the work has been completed. Unfortunately, the District does not provide individual notifications to parcels that fail inspection. Instead, this information is publicly available when the Public Nuisance List is presented during Board meetings.

Failure to Abate Vacant Parcels

If your parcel appears on the list, it is essential that you take immediate action to abate your lot by the deadline before the next Board meeting, when the next phase of the Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program begins.

Failure to do so will result in additional charges being applied to your property. The owner of record of the property at the time of notification is responsible for the clearance of the parcel. Properties that do not meet the requirements will be subject to penalties and abatement by the district’s contractor, at the property owner's expense. 

For more information, please click here.

Notice of Inflationary Increases to Water and Sewer Rates in Accordance with a Previously Approved Schedule

(Si le gustaria recibir este documento en Español, por favor llame a CCSD (805) 927-6223.)

Notice of Inflationary Increases to Water and Sewer Rates in Accordance with a Previously Approved Schedule

Resolution 28-2025 Adopting Water and Sewer Inflationary Rate Increases for Fiscal Year 2025/26

On June 12, 2025, the Board of Directors of the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) voted to approve inflationary increases for water and sewer rates, effective on or after July 12, 2025, pursuant to a previously approved schedule, in accordance with Government Code Section 53756. The rate adjustments are authorized by CCSD Resolution 32-2022, adopted on May 19, 2022, and Resolution 43-2022, adopted on June 23, 2022, in accordance with Proposition 218. The new water and sewer rates are shown below.

Rate Adjustments Needed to Fund Normal Operating Costs of the Water & Sewer Utility Systems

The rate increases are necessary because the CCSD’s water and sewer utilities rely primarily on revenues from service charges to fund the costs of providing service. As such, water and sewer rates must be set at levels adequate to fund the costs of operating and maintaining the District’s water and sewer utility systems to support safe and reliable service.

The key factors driving the need for the previously approved rate increases include: a need to restore balanced budgets to bring revenues back in line with the costs of providing service and restore financial stability, to help fund critical improvements to aging infrastructure, to help fund the District’s highest-priority water and sewer system capital needs, to provide a minimal prudent level of funding for repairs, replacements, and rehabilitation of aging infrastructure.

Water Rates

CCSD’s water rates include both 1) fixed charges levied on each account regardless of water use, and 2) water quantity charges billed based on metered water use in each billing period. Residential customers pay a uniform fixed charge per account plus water quantity charges billed via three graduating rate tiers, with water purchased first in Tier 1 and then subsequently in higher tiers that are more expensive as water use increases.  Commercial rates include fixed charges that vary by meter size – with higher charges for customers with larger meter sizes that place more demand on the water system – plus a uniform volumetric rate for all water use.  Quantity charges are billed in units of one hundred cubic feet (ccf), with 1 ccf equal to approximately 748 gallons.

Sewer Rates

CCSD sewer rates include both 1) fixed charges levied on each account regardless of usage, and 2) sewer quantity charges billed based on metered water use in each billing period. Sewer quantity charges for commercial customers vary based on wastewater class and strength, with lower charges for customers with lower-strength wastewater and higher charges for customers with higher-strength wastewater, which costs more to process and treat in order to comply with CCSD’s wastewater discharge permit requirements.

Administrative & Finance Departments 

CCSD Office Closure for Fourth of July

Please be advised that the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) administrative office will be closed on Thursday, July 3, 2025, and Friday, July 4, 2025, in observance of the Fourth of July.

For any Water and Wastewater emergency services during this time, please contact our 24-hour main line at (805) 927-6223. The office will reopen on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

Notice of Adoption of Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Preliminary Budget and Public Hearing to Consider Adoption of Proposed Final Budget of the Cambria Community Services District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cambria Community Services District (“CCSD”) Board of Directors adopted a Preliminary Budget for fiscal year 2025/2026 on June 12, 2025.

NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that the Board of Directors of the CCSD will conduct a public hearing on the proposed Final Budget for fiscal year 2025/2026 on August 14, 2025, commencing at 10:00 A.M. at 1000 Main Street Cambria, CA 93428 and via Zoom webinar at the link below. Any person may attend and be heard regarding any item in the proposed Final Budget, or regarding the addition of other items. Public comment can also be submitted to the Confidential Administrative Assistant at boardcomment@cambriacsd.org.

Please click this URL to join.

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87104323005?pwd=tOtHebcC36aqLTA1dqEP3g7IUAp5mX.1

Passcode: 573106

Or One tap mobile:

+16699006833,,87104323005# US (San Jose)

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Or join by phone:

Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):

US: +1 669 900 6833  or +1 669 444 9171  or +1 719 359 4580  or +1 253 205 0468  or +1 253 215 8782  or +1 346 248 7799  or +1 360 209 5623  or +1 386 347 5053  or +1 507 473 4847  or +1 564 217 2000  or +1 646 931 3860  or +1 689 278 1000  or +1 929 205 6099  or +1 301 715 8592  or +1 305 224 1968  or +1 309 205 3325  or +1 312 626 6799

Webinar ID: 871 0432 3005

International numbers available: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kerWuLDTGb

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: You may contact the Confidential Administrative Assistant at 2150 Main Street, #1-A, P.O. Box 65, Cambria, CA 93428, Tel: (805) 927-6223.

This public hearing shall comply with the requirements of the American with Disabilities Act.

Notice of Adoption of 25-26 Preliminary Budget & Public Hearing for 25-26 Proposed Final Budget - 6/18 & 6/25

Notice of Adoption of 25-26 Preliminary Budget & Public Hearing for 25-26 Proposed Final Budget - 7/30 & 8/6

Low Income Wastewater Utility Reduction Program

CCSD Customers who participate in the CARE program through PG&E may be eligible for CCSD's low-income wastewater utility reduction program. This program allows for a 40% reduction in wastewater fees. Property owners may also receive a fire suppression assessment fee waiver. Please contact our office for more information. Eligibility requirements include:

• Completion of a CCSD Low Income Wastewater Utility Reduction Program Application.
• Copy of your CA driver's license or ID card. The address on your card must match the PG&E service address.
• Participation in the PG&E Lifeline (CARE) program.

Low Income Reduction Application

Programa De Reduccion Para Drenaje De Bajos Ingresos

CCSD Utility Service Bill

We encourage all Cambria utility billing customers to take a moment to familiarize themselves with their utility bills. Understanding your utility bill is essential for managing your water usage and payments effectively. We encourage all Cambria utility billing customers to take a moment to familiarize themselves with their utility bills. Understanding the layout of your bill will help ensure accuracy, identify key details, and clarify any questions you may have. To assist with this, we’ve provided an example of a typical utility bill below. Below is a guide to help you navigate the key sections of your bill:

1. Account Information

• Account Number: Unique identifier for your account.
• Service Address: Address where services are provided.
• Billing Period: Dates reflecting the cycle for which services are billed.

2. Bill Summary

• Previous Balance: Amount carried forward from your last bill.
• Payments: Payments received during the billing period.
• Adjustments: Any credits or charges applied.
• Current Charges: Charges for the current billing cycle, including base rates and usage fees.
• Amount Due: Total amount payable by the due date.

3. Usage Details

• Meter Readings: Displays current and previous readings.
• Consumption Graph: Compares your current usage to the same period in the previous year.

4. Charges Breakdown

• Water Base/Usage Fees: Charges for water service.
• Sewer Base/Usage Fees: Charges for sewer services.
• WRF Base/Usage Fees: Charges related to Water Reclamation Facility.

CCSD’s water and sewer utilities rely primarily on revenues from service charges to fund the costs of providing service. Therefore, water and sewer rates must be set at levels adequate to fund the costs of operating and maintaining CCSD’s water and sewer systems to support safe and reliable service.

The water and sewer rates implemented by Resolution 14-2024 cover no more than the cost that CCSD incurs to provide water and sewer services as detailed in the Water, WRF, and Sewer Rate analysis prepared by Bartle Wells Associates and last reviewed by the Board on March 17, 2022.

5. Payment Options

• Online: cambriacsdca.municipalonlinepayments.com
• By Phone: Call 1-833-792-9627.
• By Mail or In-Person: See the remittance portion of your bill for details.

6. Important Messages

• Messages on your bill may include updates and reminders. Please review them carefully.

The CCSD bills bimonthly. Consumption charges are based on the amount of water delivered through your meter. Water and wastewater usage charges are computed by unit. One unit is equal to approximately 748 gallons. 

Facilities & Resources Department

Vegetation Management on CCSD Properties

The Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) would like to inform residents about ongoing and upcoming vegetation management activities on CCSD-owned lots throughout Cambria. We understand that many of these properties are located in or near residential neighborhoods and may contain native vegetation, trees, and habitats that residents value. CCSD recognizes the ecological importance of these areas and shares the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

However, CCSD also has a legal obligation to comply with state-mandated fire protection regulations. Under California Public Resources Code § 4291 and Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, defensible space must be maintained in designated fire hazard severity zones. This includes maintaining vegetation clearance within 100 feet of structures and along access easements and roadways.

These regulations apply regardless of land ownership and are enforced in coordination with Cal FIRE and local fire authorities. As such, vegetation management on CCSD lots is necessary to reduce wildfire risk, improve emergency access, and protect surrounding homes, infrastructure, and residents.

Work being performed may include removal of dead or flammable brush, thinning of dense vegetation, and clearing of overgrowth within easements and road shoulders. All work is carried out under the direction of qualified personnel and, when applicable, with environmental review to ensure sensitive native plants and trees are protected to the greatest extent possible.

In some instances, unauthorized plantings have been placed by individuals on CCSD property. While we understand these efforts are often made with good intentions, planting trees, shrubs, or ornamentals on public land without formal approval is not allowed and may interfere with fire safety efforts. Any such plantings may be removed if they pose a hazard or prevent compliance with required defensible space guidelines.

CCSD remains committed to managing its land responsibly and transparently. Fire prevention and public safety will continue to guide our efforts, but we will always strive to balance these requirements with ecological care and respect for our shared environment.

Residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the CCSD office. We welcome your input and are happy to coordinate site visits or provide additional information regarding our vegetation management practices.

Maintenance Technician Recruitment 

The Cambria Community Services District is currently accepting applications to establish a hiring list for the position of Maintenance Technician in the Facilities & Resources Department. This recruitment will remain open until the District’s needs are met. For first consideration, apply immediately. For more information, click here.

Cambria Veterans' Memorial Hall

The Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) owns and operates the Cambria Veterans’ Memorial Building. As part of a facility rental, renters and their guests are allowed to use the Veterans Hall parking lot.

Please note that the public may not use the Veterans Hall parking lot or restrooms for unrelated events or gatherings in the area. To help keep these facilities available for those who have reserved them, we kindly ask the community to use alternative parking and restroom facilities during events not hosted at the Veterans Hall.

If you would like to rent the Veterans Hall building or parking lot, please visit our website at https://www.cambriacsd.org/cambria-veterans-memorial-hall.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Cambria Fire Department

Free Chipping for Cambria Residents 

The San Luis Obispo County Community Fire Safe Council is proud to sponsor this Chipping Program.

This free service provides curbside chipping and removal of hazardous vegetation from residential properties. The grant funded program goal is to reduce flammable vegetation in your neighborhood and help you create defensible space around YOUR home in the event of a wildfire.

Experienced, licensed, and insured contractors will chip the vegetation you gather and stack according to the guidelines, then haul it away from your property. 

You must register by Friday, July 11, 2025, and chipping will start the following week.

Here is the link to sign up Chipper Days.

Fourth of July Safety Message from Fire Chief

As we approach the busy holiday season in Cambria, our community will welcome more visitors, events, and celebrations that make this time of year so special. With larger crowds and increased activity throughout town, I want to take a moment to share a few important safety reminders.

Whether you’re attending a holiday market, enjoying the lights, or hosting friends and family, please help us keep Cambria safe by following these guidelines:

• Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Be mindful of exits and emergency routes at events. If something doesn’t look or feel right, trust your instincts and report it to the authorities.
• Keep Roads and Access Clear: Avoid blocking fire lanes, hydrants, and driveways. Emergency vehicles need quick and unobstructed access at all times.
• Practice Fire Safety: Use caution with candles, space heaters, and holiday lights. Ensure all decorations are flame-retardant and electrical cords are in good condition.
• Be Patient in Crowds: With increased foot and vehicle traffic, please remain calm, courteous, and patient. A little kindness goes a long way during the holidays.
• Plan Ahead: Know your meeting location if you get separated from your group, and have a way to contact family or friends in case of emergency.

The Cambria Fire Department will be on duty and ready to respond throughout the season. We are proud to serve our community and work alongside local partners to ensure everyone enjoys a safe and joyful holiday.

On behalf of the entire fire department, I wish you and your loved ones a safe, peaceful, and happy holiday.

Stay informed, stay safe,

Fire Chief Michael Burkey

Recognition of SAFER Firefighters

As we approach June 30, 2025, I want to take a moment to recognize and sincerely thank our three SAFER Firefighters—Colton Blume, Stuart Mahoney, and Henry Wright—whose terms are coming to an end. These dedicated professionals have made a lasting impact on our department and the Cambria community through their unwavering commitment to public safety, teamwork, and service.

Thanks to the SAFER Grant, we had the opportunity to expand our team with highly capable individuals who enhanced our emergency response capacity, reduced response times, and supported the overall readiness of the Cambria CSD Fire Department. Over the past several years, these firefighters have gone above and beyond the call of duty—responding to emergencies, assisting with public education efforts, and upholding the department’s high standards of excellence.

On behalf of the Cambria Community Services District, thank you for your service, professionalism, and dedication. Your contributions have made Cambria a safer, stronger place, and your presence has left a meaningful legacy.

Meet the Fire Chief

On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, 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. 

Cambria Wildfire Readiness: It Starts with You  

Fire Doesn’t Stop at the Fence Line. Neither Should Preparedness.

Cambria is in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, surrounded by dense wildland vegetation, which increases the potential for rapid fire spread. Additionally, narrow roads and limited access routes can complicate evacuation efforts and hinder emergency response. In such settings, creating and maintaining defensible space around properties is vital.  

Plan with your family and coordinate with neighbors to ensure everyone is ready to evacuate and respond safely during a fire emergency. Cambria’s older population and smaller household sizes make strong community networks essential. Building these connections and proactively preparing greatly improves your chances of surviving wildfires and minimizing damage. 

Community Liaisons

New Online Sign-Up Option for Liaisons

We’ve added a new feature to our website, allowing community members to sign up online to become a Community Liaison. This tool makes it easier to invite neighbors, friends, or anyone interested in actively participating in community readiness. Please share the link and encourage others to join our growing network. Click here to sign up.

The CCSD recently sent a Wildfire Readiness document to all ratepayers. Download a copy of the document below.

Water & Wastewater Departments

Please refer to the June 12, 2025, Board Meeting agenda packet to read the latest utilities report.

Water Treatment Plant Operator-In-Training (OIT), I, II, or Water Systems Operator T3/D2 Recruitment 

The Cambria Community Services District is currently accepting applications for one (1) position in the Water Department. The position may be filled at one of the following levels, depending on qualifications:

• Water Treatment Plant Operator-In-Training (OIT)
• Water Treatment Plant Operator I or II
• Water Systems Operator T3/D2

This recruitment will remain open until the position is filled. For more information, click here.

Stuart Street Tank Construction Project Request for Proposal

The Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) is requesting proposals from qualified bidders for the demolition and disposal of two bolted steel water storage tanks, and construction of two (2) new welded steel storage tanks, one 212,000-gallon and the other 125,000-gallon, site improvements including grading, site drainage, modification of existing retaining wall, and replacement of fencing in accordance with Exhibit C (Drawings), and Exhibit D (Technical Specifications).

The full request package can be accessed here.

Annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR)

To obtain details on Cambria's water quality, please consult this year's Consumer Confidence Report. The "Safe Drinking Water Act" requires this annual report to be available to all CCSD customers in July each year. The 2024 Consumer Confidence Report is posted below.

If you would like a printed copy of the 2024 Consumer Confidence Report, please email engineering@cambriacsd.org.

CCSD Board of Directors Meetings

Regular Board Meeting

📅 Date: Thursday, July 10, 2025

⏰ Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Location: 1000 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428

Public Participation:
✉️ Written comments may be submitted via email to boardcomment@cambriacsd.org or through the submission portal anytime before the Board meeting. 

Special Board Meeting

📅 Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025

⏰ Time: 9:00 AM
📍 Location: 1000 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428

Public Participation:
✉️ Written comments may be submitted via email to boardcomment@cambriacsd.org or through the submission portal anytime before the Board meeting. 

CCSD Standing Committee Meetings

CCSD Notice of Intent to Fill Finance Committee Member Vacancy

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) is accepting applications to fill one (1) seat on the Finance Committee. Applicants must live and be registered to vote within the CCSD boundaries. The selected candidate will serve until February 13, 2027.

CCSD Notice of Intent to Fill Finance Committee Member Vacancy

The CCSD Board of Directors will consider all applications and appoint a Finance Committee Member to fill the vacant term at the Regular Board meeting on July 10, 2025, commencing at 10:00 a.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. 

Finance Committee applications can be delivered to

• The Cambria Community Services District administration office or drop boxes located at 2150 Main Street, #1-A, Cambria, California 93428
• Mailed to: Cambria Community Services District, Attention: Confidential Administrative Assistant, PO Box 65, Cambria, CA 93428
• Emailed to the Confidential Administrative Assistant at hdodson@cambriacsd.org.  

Applications can be downloaded here.

Fire Protection Committee Meeting

📅 Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025
⏰ Time: 10:30 AM
📍 Location: 1000 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428

Public Participation: Members of the public can submit written comments to be read at Standing Committee meetings.

Resources & Infrastructure Committee Meeting

📅 Date: Monday, July 14, 2025
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM
📍 Location: 1000 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428

Public Participation: Members of the public can submit written comments to be read at Standing Committee meetings.

PROS Committee Meeting

📅 Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM
📍 Location: 1000 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428

Public Participation: Members of the public can submit written comments to be read at Standing Committee meetings.

Meet the General Manager

On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, 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; as always, we welcome your feedback and ideas. 

If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me.

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

Matthew McElhenie