City Council Meeting

The October 14, 2026, City Council meeting of the City of Atascadero approved a wastewater capacity-charge deferral program for eligible commercial projects in designated commercial and mixed-use zones. The one-year program is capped at $300,000, with 25% due when a permit is issued and the remaining 75% paid over three years with interest; repayment is secured by a promissory note and deed of trust. The council approved it unanimously, with direction that it benefit smaller businesses rather than large corporate entities. Staff said the program is intended to support commercial development while the city prepares for major wastewater-system investment, estimated at more than $100 million.

The council also unanimously approved the three recommendations for the wastewater treatment plant project, including selecting the moving bed bioreactor (MBBR) process, proceeding with Phase 2 preliminary design and cost estimating, and advancing interim improvements to extend the existing plant’s service. Proposed near-term work includes repairing the aeration pond liner, creating a controlled overflow path, and replacing or adding pumps. Separately, the city manager reported that F-14 pavement rehabilitation is underway, covering about four centerline miles, and that the El Camino Real culvert-replacement contract with Sousa Construction has been executed; construction was scheduled to begin October 19, subject to permits. No contract amounts were stated for these works.