Clearer Structure, Cleaner Water: Improving Performance and Outcomes at the State Water Boards

Report #195, January 2009
Clearer Structure, Cleaner Water: Improving Performance and Outcomes at the State Water Boards

Full Report

Executive Summary

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 28, 2009

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Commission Calls for Reform of State and Regional Water Boards to Improve Accountability, Transparency and Outcomes

The Little Hoover Commission on Thursday urged the governor and the Legislature to reform the State Water Resources Control Board and nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards by expanding the state board to nine members, with five members representing statewide interests and four drawn on a rotating basis from the nine regional board chairpersons, whose positions would become full-time. In addition, the Commission called for a revamped appeals process; to improve the use of data and science in water quality regulatory processes; and urged the water boards to focus on new ways to solve modern water quality problems and set priorities.

In its report, Clearer Structure, Cleaner Water: Improving Performance and Outcomes at the State Water Boards, the Commission also recommends refocusing both the state board and regional boards on policy-making and updating basin plans.

During its study, the Commission found that the water boards face increasingly complex water quality problems, caused in part by hard-to-regulate sources such as urban and agricultural runoff. The Commission also found that a decentralized governance structure, with nine regional water quality boards operating with distinct policies and processes, hinders accountability and transparency. The result is a system that has lost the confidence of most stakeholders. To restore accountability and increase focus on clean-water outcomes, the Commission recommends strengthening the relationship between the state and regional boards.

“The governance structure for water quality regulation in California is 40 years old and is ill-prepared to handle modern problems,” Little Hoover Commission Chairman Daniel Hancock said. “Major reform is needed to help protect and improve water quality, which is a key to the state’s future.”

In Clearer Structure, Cleaner Water: Improving Performance and Outcomes at the State Water Boards, the Commission recommends that the state:

  • Move toward a more consistent, transparent and accountable governance structure that allows for both statewide and regional flexibility. The state must strengthen ties between the State Water Resources Control Board and the Regional Water Quality Control Boards and refocus the boards on broad policy-making and restoring confidence in the appeals process. To do this, the Commission recommends expanding the state water board to nine members, with four of the members serving dual roles by also acting as chairperson of a regional board; making all regional board chairpersons fulltime positions; delegating permitting authority from the boards to the executive director of the state board and the executive officers of the regional boards; and creating an appeals board to handle appeals from state and regional board actions.
     
  • Improve and increase the use of data, scientific research and planning. To improve focus on outcomes and better respond to current and future water problems, the state should:
     
    • Create a Water Science Advisory Board for the State Water Resources Control Board, to advise the board on needed scientific research and how to increase the use of science in regulatory proceeding;
       
    • Create an independent Water Data Institute to act as a state library for water quality and supply data;
       
    • Develop report cards for each major water body to better inform the public about water quality to better hold regional boards accountable for clean-water outcomes; and
       
    • Launch a statewide effort to ensure that all regions have up-to-date basin plans.
  • Increase focus on clean-water outcomes and emphasize collaboration, creativity and problem-solving to address current water quality problems. The water boards should collaborate with other government agencies to develop regulatory strategies to address modern water quality problems, such as land use and air pollution’s effects on water. To increase focus on outcomes and solving complex problems, the water boards should increase focus on watershed-wide regulations. The state also should use stakeholder task forces to work through difficult regulatory issues.
     
  • Use cost-effectiveness analyses to help set priorities and determine the best methods to improving water quality. To fully implement the state water code’s requirement that water quality be balanced with other factors, such as economics, the boards should develop a standardized means to measure the costs and benefits of regulation.

The Little Hoover Commission is a bipartisan and independent state agency charged with recommending ways to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of state programs. The Commission’s recommendations are sent to the governor and the Legislature. To obtain a copy of the report, Clearer Structure, Cleaner Water: Improving Performance and Outcomes at the State Water Boards, contact the Commission or visit its Web site: www.lhc.ca.gov.

Fact Sheet

Study Description

For this study, the Commission reviewed the governance structure surrounding water in California and the relationship between the State Water Resources Control Board and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Commission assessed the roles of the state and regional boards and the challenges facing the boards in their efforts to appropriately respond to the state's pressing water quality needs. As part of its study, the Commission investigated how to best balance the need for consistent statewide policy and the need for flexibility to handle regional issues. The Commission also explored the state's water quality goals and whether the state and regional boards had policies in place to reach those goals. Additionally, the Commission examined barriers that prevent the state and regional boards from carrying out their missions.


Previous Studies 

Agenda

Overview

In this report, the Commission calls for a reform of state and regional water boards to improve accountability, transparency and outcomes.

During its review, the Commission found that the water boards faced increasingly complex water quality problems, caused in part by hard-to-regulate sources such as urban and agricultural runoff. The Commission also found the boards had a decentralized governance structure, lacked accountability and transparency and had lost the confidence of stakeholders.

The Commission recommends that the governor and Legislature restructure the state and regional water quality boards, improve the links among them, create more transparency and accountability and make other improvements. The Commission also recommends the state restructure the membership of the state and regional boards; improve use of scientific research, planning and data, in part through an advisory board and a water data institute; increase focus on clean-water outcomes and collaboration, creativity and problem solving; and develop a standardized means to measure the costs and benefits of regulation. Coordination is lacking among the State Water Resources Control Board and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Commission suggests strengthening ties among the boards, improving data and analyses, and taking a broader, more regional approach to addressing quality problems.

Print Agenda
  • August 28
    2008
    California's Water Boards
    2:30 - 4:30 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Leve
    Subcommittee Meeting
    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    August 14, 2008

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Stuart Drown, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

    On Thursday, August 28, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on public health. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    The purpose of this hearing is to provide the Commission with an update on the status of California’s public health system following the Commission’s report, To Protect and Prevent: Rebuilding California’s Public Health System (April, 2003), and follow-up review in 2005 that prioritized specific recommendations from the 2003 report. The Commission will assess the progress that has been made in recent years and the impact of the new California Department of Public Health (CDPH) since it was established on July 1, 2007. The Commission will hear testimony from the CDPH director and state public health officer, local health officers and public health associations.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

    An advisory group to the Data and Technology Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, August 27, 2008, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The group will discuss opportunities and challenges to implementing a statewide performance measurement system.

    In addition, the California’s Water Boards Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Thursday, August, 28, 2008, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss potential reforms to the state and regional water boards system.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, August 21, 2008.

  • June 25
    2008
    California's Water Boards
    3:00 - 5:00 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Lev
    Advisory Committee Meeting
    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 12, 2008

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Stuart Drown, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

    On Thursday, June 26, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on data and technology. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    This is the second of two public hearings the Commission has scheduled on data and technology. The goal of the Commission’s study is to develop recommendations to build a roadmap for data-driven policy strategies in state government. At the first hearing, the Commission explored governance and oversight issues surrounding the administration of the state’s information technology systems. At this hearing, the Commission will explore the opportunities and challenges of leveraging technology to improve government operations and public outcomes, and learn about best practices in using data to drive performance. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

    At this hearing, the Commission will hear testimony from the former Undersecretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the California prison health care receiver and former state Chief Information Officer, and a panel of performance management leaders from Washington and Virginia.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

    During its business meeting, the Commission will hear from the State Water Resources Control Board on the administration’s Water Quality Improvement Initiative.

    In addition, the California’s Water Boards Governance Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, June 25, 2008, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss potential reforms to the structure of the state and regional water boards.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, June 19, 2008.

  • May 21
    2008
    California's Water Boards
    1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Leve
    Advisory Committee Meeting
    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    May 8, 2008

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Stuart Drown, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings 

    On Thursday, May 22, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on data and technology. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 2040 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    This is the first of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the administration of California’s information technology systems. The focus of the Commission’s review will be on the opportunities and challenges of using technology to improve government operations and public outcomes. A complete agenda is on the reverse. At this hearing, the Commission will discuss the progress California has made in developing an IT governance structure and the barriers that still exist. The Commission will hear testimony from the current state CIO, a former state CIO, a national expert on state IT practices and policies, a member of the state’s IT vendor community and the former chief deputy director of the Department of General Services.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

    In addition, the California Water Boards Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss the roles and relationships of the state and regional water boards and how they can be changed to improve water quality regulation.

    The Data and Technology Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission also will meet on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. Staff from the Department of Finance will brief the subcommittee on the state’s FI$Cal, Financial Information System for California, project.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, May 15, 2008

  • April 24
    2008
    California's Water Boards
    9:00 a.m., State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Public Hearing on California’s Water Boards
    Thursday, April 24, 2008, at 9:00 a.m.
    State Capitol, Room 437
    Sacramento, CA


    Opening Remarks

    Naval Perspective

    1. Rear Admiral Leendert “Len” R. Hering, Sr., Commander, Navy Region Southwest (Written Testimony)
       

    Business Perspective

    1. Terese Ghio, Past President, Industrial Environmental Association (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Mick Pattinson, President, Barratt American (Written Testimony)
       

    Agricultural Perspective

    1. Craig Wilson, Counsel, Community Alliance for Environmental Stewardship (Written Testimony)


    Environmental Perspective

    1. Linda Sheehan, Executive Director, California Coastkeeper Alliance (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Laurel Firestone, Co-Executive Director, Community Water Center (Written Testimony)

    Local Government Perspective

    1. Chris Crompton, Manager, Environmental Resources Section, OC Public Works Department (Written Testimony)
      ​​​​​​​

    Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    April 10, 2008

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Stuart Drown, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meeting

    On Thursday, April 24, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California’s water boards. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    This is the second of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the governance structure surrounding water in California, including the State Water Resources Control Board and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Commission is reviewing the state’s water boards to identify reforms that will improve public outcomes through the boards’ interactions around California’s water quality needs. This hearing will provide perspectives from the regulated community, including representatives of the United States Navy, agriculture, environmental groups, local government and business. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A business meeting will follow the hearing.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, April 17, 2008.

  • March 27
    2008
    California's Water Boards
    9:00 a.m., State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Public Hearing on California’s Water Boards
    Thursday, March 27, 2008, at 9:00 a.m.
    State Capitol, Room 437
    Sacramento, CA


    Opening Remarks

    California Water 101

    1. Lisa Beutler, Associate Director, Center for Collaborative Policy (Written Testimony)
       

    State Perspective

    1. Tam Doduc, Chairwoman, State Water Resources Control Board (Written Testimony)
       

    Federal Perspective

    1. Alexis Strauss, Director, Water Division, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9 (Written Testimony)


    Regional Perspective

    1. Carole Beswick, Chairwoman, Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (Written Testimony) 
       
    2. Karl Longley, Chairman, Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (Written Testimony)

    Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

    • Ourania Riddle, Dixon resident and member of the Solano County Taxpayers Association (Written Comments)
    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    March 13, 2008

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Stuart Drown, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

    On Thursday, March 27, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California’s water boards. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    This is the first of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the governance structure surrounding water in California, including the State Water Resources Control Board and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Commission is reviewing the state’s water boards to identify reforms that will improve public outcomes through the boards’ interactions around California’s water quality needs. This hearing will provide a broad assessment of current water-related issues and policies in California. Witnesses also will discuss their roles and experiences at the federal, state and regional levels. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A business meeting will follow the hearing.

    Also, the Commission will meet for dinner on Wednesday, March 26, 2008, at 6 p.m. at Mason’s Restaurant, 1116 15th Street, Sacramento.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, March 20, 2008.

August 28
2008
California's Water Boards
2:30 - 4:30 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Level, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
Subcommittee Meeting
Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 14, 2008

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

On Thursday, August 28, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on public health. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

The purpose of this hearing is to provide the Commission with an update on the status of California’s public health system following the Commission’s report, To Protect and Prevent: Rebuilding California’s Public Health System (April, 2003), and follow-up review in 2005 that prioritized specific recommendations from the 2003 report. The Commission will assess the progress that has been made in recent years and the impact of the new California Department of Public Health (CDPH) since it was established on July 1, 2007. The Commission will hear testimony from the CDPH director and state public health officer, local health officers and public health associations.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

An advisory group to the Data and Technology Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, August 27, 2008, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The group will discuss opportunities and challenges to implementing a statewide performance measurement system.

In addition, the California’s Water Boards Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Thursday, August, 28, 2008, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss potential reforms to the state and regional water boards system.

All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, August 21, 2008.

June 25
2008
California's Water Boards
3:00 - 5:00 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Level, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
Advisory Committee Meeting
Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 12, 2008

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

On Thursday, June 26, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on data and technology. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

This is the second of two public hearings the Commission has scheduled on data and technology. The goal of the Commission’s study is to develop recommendations to build a roadmap for data-driven policy strategies in state government. At the first hearing, the Commission explored governance and oversight issues surrounding the administration of the state’s information technology systems. At this hearing, the Commission will explore the opportunities and challenges of leveraging technology to improve government operations and public outcomes, and learn about best practices in using data to drive performance. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

At this hearing, the Commission will hear testimony from the former Undersecretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the California prison health care receiver and former state Chief Information Officer, and a panel of performance management leaders from Washington and Virginia.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

During its business meeting, the Commission will hear from the State Water Resources Control Board on the administration’s Water Quality Improvement Initiative.

In addition, the California’s Water Boards Governance Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, June 25, 2008, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss potential reforms to the structure of the state and regional water boards.

All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, June 19, 2008.

May 21
2008
California's Water Boards
1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Level, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
Advisory Committee Meeting
Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 8, 2008

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings 

On Thursday, May 22, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on data and technology. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 2040 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

This is the first of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the administration of California’s information technology systems. The focus of the Commission’s review will be on the opportunities and challenges of using technology to improve government operations and public outcomes. A complete agenda is on the reverse. At this hearing, the Commission will discuss the progress California has made in developing an IT governance structure and the barriers that still exist. The Commission will hear testimony from the current state CIO, a former state CIO, a national expert on state IT practices and policies, a member of the state’s IT vendor community and the former chief deputy director of the Department of General Services.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

In addition, the California Water Boards Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss the roles and relationships of the state and regional water boards and how they can be changed to improve water quality regulation.

The Data and Technology Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission also will meet on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. Staff from the Department of Finance will brief the subcommittee on the state’s FI$Cal, Financial Information System for California, project.

All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, May 15, 2008

April 24
2008
California's Water Boards
9:00 a.m., State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
Public Hearing
Agenda

AGENDA

Public Hearing on California’s Water Boards
Thursday, April 24, 2008, at 9:00 a.m.
State Capitol, Room 437
Sacramento, CA


Opening Remarks

Naval Perspective

  1. Rear Admiral Leendert “Len” R. Hering, Sr., Commander, Navy Region Southwest (Written Testimony)
     

Business Perspective

  1. Terese Ghio, Past President, Industrial Environmental Association (Written Testimony)
     
  2. Mick Pattinson, President, Barratt American (Written Testimony)
     

Agricultural Perspective

  1. Craig Wilson, Counsel, Community Alliance for Environmental Stewardship (Written Testimony)


Environmental Perspective

  1. Linda Sheehan, Executive Director, California Coastkeeper Alliance (Written Testimony)
     
  2. Laurel Firestone, Co-Executive Director, Community Water Center (Written Testimony)

Local Government Perspective

  1. Chris Crompton, Manager, Environmental Resources Section, OC Public Works Department (Written Testimony)
    ​​​​​​​

Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 10, 2008

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meeting

On Thursday, April 24, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California’s water boards. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

This is the second of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the governance structure surrounding water in California, including the State Water Resources Control Board and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Commission is reviewing the state’s water boards to identify reforms that will improve public outcomes through the boards’ interactions around California’s water quality needs. This hearing will provide perspectives from the regulated community, including representatives of the United States Navy, agriculture, environmental groups, local government and business. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A business meeting will follow the hearing.

All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, April 17, 2008.

March 27
2008
California's Water Boards
9:00 a.m., State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
Public Hearing
Agenda

AGENDA

Public Hearing on California’s Water Boards
Thursday, March 27, 2008, at 9:00 a.m.
State Capitol, Room 437
Sacramento, CA


Opening Remarks

California Water 101

  1. Lisa Beutler, Associate Director, Center for Collaborative Policy (Written Testimony)
     

State Perspective

  1. Tam Doduc, Chairwoman, State Water Resources Control Board (Written Testimony)
     

Federal Perspective

  1. Alexis Strauss, Director, Water Division, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9 (Written Testimony)


Regional Perspective

  1. Carole Beswick, Chairwoman, Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (Written Testimony) 
     
  2. Karl Longley, Chairman, Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (Written Testimony)

Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

  • Ourania Riddle, Dixon resident and member of the Solano County Taxpayers Association (Written Comments)
Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 13, 2008

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

On Thursday, March 27, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California’s water boards. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

This is the first of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the governance structure surrounding water in California, including the State Water Resources Control Board and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Commission is reviewing the state’s water boards to identify reforms that will improve public outcomes through the boards’ interactions around California’s water quality needs. This hearing will provide a broad assessment of current water-related issues and policies in California. Witnesses also will discuss their roles and experiences at the federal, state and regional levels. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A business meeting will follow the hearing.

Also, the Commission will meet for dinner on Wednesday, March 26, 2008, at 6 p.m. at Mason’s Restaurant, 1116 15th Street, Sacramento.

All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, March 20, 2008.

Print Agenda
  • August 28
    2008
    California's Water Boards
    2:30 - 4:30 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Leve
    Subcommittee Meeting
    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    August 14, 2008

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Stuart Drown, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

    On Thursday, August 28, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on public health. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    The purpose of this hearing is to provide the Commission with an update on the status of California’s public health system following the Commission’s report, To Protect and Prevent: Rebuilding California’s Public Health System (April, 2003), and follow-up review in 2005 that prioritized specific recommendations from the 2003 report. The Commission will assess the progress that has been made in recent years and the impact of the new California Department of Public Health (CDPH) since it was established on July 1, 2007. The Commission will hear testimony from the CDPH director and state public health officer, local health officers and public health associations.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

    An advisory group to the Data and Technology Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, August 27, 2008, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The group will discuss opportunities and challenges to implementing a statewide performance measurement system.

    In addition, the California’s Water Boards Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Thursday, August, 28, 2008, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss potential reforms to the state and regional water boards system.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, August 21, 2008.

  • June 25
    2008
    California's Water Boards
    3:00 - 5:00 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Lev
    Advisory Committee Meeting
    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 12, 2008

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Stuart Drown, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

    On Thursday, June 26, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on data and technology. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    This is the second of two public hearings the Commission has scheduled on data and technology. The goal of the Commission’s study is to develop recommendations to build a roadmap for data-driven policy strategies in state government. At the first hearing, the Commission explored governance and oversight issues surrounding the administration of the state’s information technology systems. At this hearing, the Commission will explore the opportunities and challenges of leveraging technology to improve government operations and public outcomes, and learn about best practices in using data to drive performance. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

    At this hearing, the Commission will hear testimony from the former Undersecretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the California prison health care receiver and former state Chief Information Officer, and a panel of performance management leaders from Washington and Virginia.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

    During its business meeting, the Commission will hear from the State Water Resources Control Board on the administration’s Water Quality Improvement Initiative.

    In addition, the California’s Water Boards Governance Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, June 25, 2008, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss potential reforms to the structure of the state and regional water boards.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, June 19, 2008.

  • May 21
    2008
    California's Water Boards
    1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Leve
    Advisory Committee Meeting
    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    May 8, 2008

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Stuart Drown, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings 

    On Thursday, May 22, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on data and technology. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 2040 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    This is the first of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the administration of California’s information technology systems. The focus of the Commission’s review will be on the opportunities and challenges of using technology to improve government operations and public outcomes. A complete agenda is on the reverse. At this hearing, the Commission will discuss the progress California has made in developing an IT governance structure and the barriers that still exist. The Commission will hear testimony from the current state CIO, a former state CIO, a national expert on state IT practices and policies, a member of the state’s IT vendor community and the former chief deputy director of the Department of General Services.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

    In addition, the California Water Boards Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss the roles and relationships of the state and regional water boards and how they can be changed to improve water quality regulation.

    The Data and Technology Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission also will meet on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. Staff from the Department of Finance will brief the subcommittee on the state’s FI$Cal, Financial Information System for California, project.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, May 15, 2008

  • April 24
    2008
    California's Water Boards
    9:00 a.m., State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Public Hearing on California’s Water Boards
    Thursday, April 24, 2008, at 9:00 a.m.
    State Capitol, Room 437
    Sacramento, CA


    Opening Remarks

    Naval Perspective

    1. Rear Admiral Leendert “Len” R. Hering, Sr., Commander, Navy Region Southwest (Written Testimony)
       

    Business Perspective

    1. Terese Ghio, Past President, Industrial Environmental Association (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Mick Pattinson, President, Barratt American (Written Testimony)
       

    Agricultural Perspective

    1. Craig Wilson, Counsel, Community Alliance for Environmental Stewardship (Written Testimony)


    Environmental Perspective

    1. Linda Sheehan, Executive Director, California Coastkeeper Alliance (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Laurel Firestone, Co-Executive Director, Community Water Center (Written Testimony)

    Local Government Perspective

    1. Chris Crompton, Manager, Environmental Resources Section, OC Public Works Department (Written Testimony)
      ​​​​​​​

    Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    April 10, 2008

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Stuart Drown, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meeting

    On Thursday, April 24, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California’s water boards. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    This is the second of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the governance structure surrounding water in California, including the State Water Resources Control Board and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Commission is reviewing the state’s water boards to identify reforms that will improve public outcomes through the boards’ interactions around California’s water quality needs. This hearing will provide perspectives from the regulated community, including representatives of the United States Navy, agriculture, environmental groups, local government and business. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A business meeting will follow the hearing.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, April 17, 2008.

  • March 27
    2008
    California's Water Boards
    9:00 a.m., State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Public Hearing on California’s Water Boards
    Thursday, March 27, 2008, at 9:00 a.m.
    State Capitol, Room 437
    Sacramento, CA


    Opening Remarks

    California Water 101

    1. Lisa Beutler, Associate Director, Center for Collaborative Policy (Written Testimony)
       

    State Perspective

    1. Tam Doduc, Chairwoman, State Water Resources Control Board (Written Testimony)
       

    Federal Perspective

    1. Alexis Strauss, Director, Water Division, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9 (Written Testimony)


    Regional Perspective

    1. Carole Beswick, Chairwoman, Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (Written Testimony) 
       
    2. Karl Longley, Chairman, Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (Written Testimony)

    Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

    • Ourania Riddle, Dixon resident and member of the Solano County Taxpayers Association (Written Comments)
    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    March 13, 2008

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Stuart Drown, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

    On Thursday, March 27, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California’s water boards. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    This is the first of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the governance structure surrounding water in California, including the State Water Resources Control Board and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Commission is reviewing the state’s water boards to identify reforms that will improve public outcomes through the boards’ interactions around California’s water quality needs. This hearing will provide a broad assessment of current water-related issues and policies in California. Witnesses also will discuss their roles and experiences at the federal, state and regional levels. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A business meeting will follow the hearing.

    Also, the Commission will meet for dinner on Wednesday, March 26, 2008, at 6 p.m. at Mason’s Restaurant, 1116 15th Street, Sacramento.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, March 20, 2008.

August 28
2008
California's Water Boards
2:30 - 4:30 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Level, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
Subcommittee Meeting
Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 14, 2008

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

On Thursday, August 28, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on public health. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

The purpose of this hearing is to provide the Commission with an update on the status of California’s public health system following the Commission’s report, To Protect and Prevent: Rebuilding California’s Public Health System (April, 2003), and follow-up review in 2005 that prioritized specific recommendations from the 2003 report. The Commission will assess the progress that has been made in recent years and the impact of the new California Department of Public Health (CDPH) since it was established on July 1, 2007. The Commission will hear testimony from the CDPH director and state public health officer, local health officers and public health associations.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

An advisory group to the Data and Technology Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, August 27, 2008, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The group will discuss opportunities and challenges to implementing a statewide performance measurement system.

In addition, the California’s Water Boards Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Thursday, August, 28, 2008, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss potential reforms to the state and regional water boards system.

All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, August 21, 2008.

June 25
2008
California's Water Boards
3:00 - 5:00 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Level, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
Advisory Committee Meeting
Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 12, 2008

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

On Thursday, June 26, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on data and technology. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

This is the second of two public hearings the Commission has scheduled on data and technology. The goal of the Commission’s study is to develop recommendations to build a roadmap for data-driven policy strategies in state government. At the first hearing, the Commission explored governance and oversight issues surrounding the administration of the state’s information technology systems. At this hearing, the Commission will explore the opportunities and challenges of leveraging technology to improve government operations and public outcomes, and learn about best practices in using data to drive performance. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

At this hearing, the Commission will hear testimony from the former Undersecretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the California prison health care receiver and former state Chief Information Officer, and a panel of performance management leaders from Washington and Virginia.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

During its business meeting, the Commission will hear from the State Water Resources Control Board on the administration’s Water Quality Improvement Initiative.

In addition, the California’s Water Boards Governance Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, June 25, 2008, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss potential reforms to the structure of the state and regional water boards.

All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, June 19, 2008.

May 21
2008
California's Water Boards
1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room, Lower Level, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
Advisory Committee Meeting
Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 8, 2008

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings 

On Thursday, May 22, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on data and technology. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 2040 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

This is the first of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the administration of California’s information technology systems. The focus of the Commission’s review will be on the opportunities and challenges of using technology to improve government operations and public outcomes. A complete agenda is on the reverse. At this hearing, the Commission will discuss the progress California has made in developing an IT governance structure and the barriers that still exist. The Commission will hear testimony from the current state CIO, a former state CIO, a national expert on state IT practices and policies, a member of the state’s IT vendor community and the former chief deputy director of the Department of General Services.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments.

In addition, the California Water Boards Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission will meet on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. The subcommittee will discuss the roles and relationships of the state and regional water boards and how they can be changed to improve water quality regulation.

The Data and Technology Subcommittee of the Little Hoover Commission also will meet on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Legislative Counsel’s Conference Room located on the lower level of 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA. Staff from the Department of Finance will brief the subcommittee on the state’s FI$Cal, Financial Information System for California, project.

All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, May 15, 2008

April 24
2008
California's Water Boards
9:00 a.m., State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
Public Hearing
Agenda

AGENDA

Public Hearing on California’s Water Boards
Thursday, April 24, 2008, at 9:00 a.m.
State Capitol, Room 437
Sacramento, CA


Opening Remarks

Naval Perspective

  1. Rear Admiral Leendert “Len” R. Hering, Sr., Commander, Navy Region Southwest (Written Testimony)
     

Business Perspective

  1. Terese Ghio, Past President, Industrial Environmental Association (Written Testimony)
     
  2. Mick Pattinson, President, Barratt American (Written Testimony)
     

Agricultural Perspective

  1. Craig Wilson, Counsel, Community Alliance for Environmental Stewardship (Written Testimony)


Environmental Perspective

  1. Linda Sheehan, Executive Director, California Coastkeeper Alliance (Written Testimony)
     
  2. Laurel Firestone, Co-Executive Director, Community Water Center (Written Testimony)

Local Government Perspective

  1. Chris Crompton, Manager, Environmental Resources Section, OC Public Works Department (Written Testimony)
    ​​​​​​​

Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 10, 2008

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meeting

On Thursday, April 24, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California’s water boards. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

This is the second of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the governance structure surrounding water in California, including the State Water Resources Control Board and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Commission is reviewing the state’s water boards to identify reforms that will improve public outcomes through the boards’ interactions around California’s water quality needs. This hearing will provide perspectives from the regulated community, including representatives of the United States Navy, agriculture, environmental groups, local government and business. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A business meeting will follow the hearing.

All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, April 17, 2008.

March 27
2008
California's Water Boards
9:00 a.m., State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
Public Hearing
Agenda

AGENDA

Public Hearing on California’s Water Boards
Thursday, March 27, 2008, at 9:00 a.m.
State Capitol, Room 437
Sacramento, CA


Opening Remarks

California Water 101

  1. Lisa Beutler, Associate Director, Center for Collaborative Policy (Written Testimony)
     

State Perspective

  1. Tam Doduc, Chairwoman, State Water Resources Control Board (Written Testimony)
     

Federal Perspective

  1. Alexis Strauss, Director, Water Division, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9 (Written Testimony)


Regional Perspective

  1. Carole Beswick, Chairwoman, Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (Written Testimony) 
     
  2. Karl Longley, Chairman, Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (Written Testimony)

Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

  • Ourania Riddle, Dixon resident and member of the Solano County Taxpayers Association (Written Comments)
Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 13, 2008

For Additional Information Contact:
Stuart Drown, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

On Thursday, March 27, 2008, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California’s water boards. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

This is the first of two planned hearings as part of the Commission’s review of the governance structure surrounding water in California, including the State Water Resources Control Board and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Commission is reviewing the state’s water boards to identify reforms that will improve public outcomes through the boards’ interactions around California’s water quality needs. This hearing will provide a broad assessment of current water-related issues and policies in California. Witnesses also will discuss their roles and experiences at the federal, state and regional levels. A complete agenda is on the reverse.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A business meeting will follow the hearing.

Also, the Commission will meet for dinner on Wednesday, March 26, 2008, at 6 p.m. at Mason’s Restaurant, 1116 15th Street, Sacramento.

All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s Web site, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Stuart Drown at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, March 20, 2008.