Dear Cambrians,

As we pass the year's halfway mark, we are excited about the progress and milestones we’re approaching. With your continued support and cooperation, we are closing in on completing several key district projects to enhance our community’s infrastructure and quality of life. Our meter replacement program is progressing smoothly, enhancing our water management and service efficiency.

Additionally, we are making significant strides in getting the Coastal Development Permit for the Water Reclamation Facility submittal ready after the Board approved our final draft, which is crucial for our sustainable water future. Our weed abatement efforts have also yielded positive results and compliance from enhanced communication with the public, which has contributed to a safer and more beautiful Cambria.

These advancements reflect our collective dedication to making Cambria an even better place to live, work, and enjoy. We appreciate your support and patience as we continue to work on these important initiatives.

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.

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 July 31, 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.

East Ranch Restroom

The Public Restroom Company has provided an anticipated building delivery date of late January. Staff is currently seeking bids for the site preparation and building installation work.

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. 

Free Chipping for Cambria Residents

The Fire Safe Council of San Luis Obispo County has provided grant funding to contract chipping crews, with support from the Cambria Fire Safe Focus Group. A chipping team will chip vegetation on your property, helping to make your home and the community safer. This is a free event for Cambria area residents.  All material must be ready for chipping no later than Saturday, July 20, 2024. Sign-up forms & flagging tape can be picked up at the Cambria CSD Fire Station, located at 2850 Burton Drive, or you can download the flyer and sign-up sheet on our website.

The Cambria CSD Fire Department reminds the community that all fireworks, including "safe and sane," are prohibited in the town of Cambria, even if legally purchased from a fireworks stand in another community. Community members can report fireworks observed in the community by calling the 24/7 non-emergency sheriff dispatch line at (805) 781-4550. The fire department asks that individuals only use 9-1-1 to report emergencies.

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 weed abatement deadline approaches, we remind all residents that no extensions will be granted.

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

7/8/2024 - Water Loss on the 5000 Block of Pineknolls Drive

On Monday, July 8, the CCSD Water Department will be on the 5000 block of Pineknolls Drive to work on the water main and distribution system. Four service connections will be without water between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., with the potential for more. We understand that this is a major inconvenience, and we are committed to restoring full water service as quickly as possible.

Traffic control measures will be put in place in the affected area. For your safety and the safety of our workers, we kindly ask you to:

1. Follow Traffic Signs and Directions: Pay attention to and follow all traffic control signs and signals in the area.
2. Watch for Workers: Be vigilant and watch out for our workers who will be on-site. Please slow down and drive carefully near the work zones.

We apologize for any inconvenience these necessary measures may cause and appreciate your cooperation and patience. Your safety and the safety of our workers are our top priority.

Questions? Please call us at 805-927-6223.

Water Meter Replacement Program

A project mobilization meeting was held in late June to organize billing integration and automatic data transfer between Badger Meter, Inc. and Tyler Technologies. 1,700 endpoints have been received, and water staff are waiting for the delivery of the registers, which have a tentative arrival date of the first week in July. Water staff will begin the initial installation in-house.

CCSD Board Meetings

June 25, 2024, Special Board Meeting Update 

For a more detailed Board meeting transcript, go to https://www.cambriacsd.org/2024-06-25-board-special-meeting.

November 5, 2024 CCSD Board Election

On June 20, 2024, the Board of Directors adopted Resolution 18-2024, requesting the consolidation of the CCSD governing Board election with the November 5, 2024, Presidential General Election , and Resolution 19-2024, 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. For more information, please visit our website.

Notice of Adoption of Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Preliminary Budget & Public Hearing to Consider Adoption of Proposed Final Budget of the CCSD for Fiscal Year 2024/2025

Notice was given that the Cambria Community Services District (“CCSD”) Board of Directors adopted a Preliminary Operating Budget for fiscal year 2024/2025 on June 20, 2024.

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 2024/2025 on August 15, 2024, commencing at 1:00 P.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 Preliminary Operating 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 the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82154341356?pwd=jCfgXTXY-KUJGR1k76otmZv20W1PEg.oufb-TkwB5A4wxcv
Passcode: 150418
Or One tap mobile:
    +16694449171,,82154341356# US
    +16699006833,,82154341356# US (San Jose)
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
    +1 669 444 9171 US
    +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
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    +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
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Webinar ID: 821 5434 1356
International numbers available: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kcwcloGhDy

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: You may contact the Confidential Administrative Assistant at 1316 Tamsen Street, Suite 201, P.O. Box 65, Cambria, CA 93428, Tel: (805) 927-6223, Fax: (805) 927-5584.

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

Upcoming August Board Meeting Items (subject to change):

• Discussion and consideration of updates to Standing Committee Bylaws
• Discussion regarding Board Meeting and Standing Committee Meeting length and schedules for the calendar year 2025
• Discussion and Consideration of Approval of the Zero Liquid Discharge Pilot Testing Program
• Public Hearing to discuss and consider adoption of a Resolution approving the final CCSD Budget for Fiscal Year 2024/2025 and reserve for encumbrances Fiscal Year 2023/2024
• Receive and file the Fourth Quarter Budget Report for FY 2023/24
• Discussion and consideration of approval of Consultant Services Agreement for preparation of  construction drawings for the Cambria Skatepark
• Discussion and consideration of Accepting the Transfer Station for the San Simeon Creek Streamgage at Palmer Flats from the San Luis Obispo Flood Control Water Conservation District

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