GSA Meeting 6/10/2026

The City of Ridgecrest held a meeting on June 10, 2026, primarily focused on groundwater management and the implications of proposed data center developments on local water resources. The board discussed the status of the Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP), ongoing litigation challenging the sustainable yield number of 7,650 acre-feet, and the need for transparency and public input in groundwater projects. Significant attention was given to legislative updates concerning data center water use reporting requirements, with staff recommending continued engagement with stakeholders on relevant bills without taking formal positions at this time. The board approved motions to authorize Capital Corp to stay involved in legislative discussions and to submit a comment letter to the California Energy Commission (CEC) outlining local groundwater concerns. Additionally, the meeting covered potential grant applications for groundwater monitoring well replacements and seismic surveys, with estimated non-federal cost shares discussed. Public comments highlighted concerns about water sustainability, data center water usage estimates, and the importance of community engagement. No contract awards or procurement decisions were made during this meeting, but the discussion included potential funding opportunities and legislative advocacy related to groundwater management and data center impacts.