City of Hollister City Council Meeting

The City of Hollister City Council held a meeting on October 20, 2025, which included significant discussions on water infrastructure and financial planning. A major agenda item was the presentation and deliberation on a water rate study conducted by Rafalis Financial Consultants, Inc., recommending phased water rate increases over five years to address operational deficits, aging infrastructure, and to build reserves for capital improvements. Two rate increase alternatives were presented, with council members debating the financial impact on residents, especially low-income and senior households. The council ultimately directed staff to proceed with the Prop 218 process using the less aggressive rate increase option. Additionally, the council approved a fire service agreement with Valley Solar LLC to cover inspection and maintenance costs related to a solar farm, and discussed a regional water agreement amendment involving San Benito County Water District and other partners, which failed to pass due to concerns about future growth and cost burdens on ratepayers. Other topics included public safety ordinance related to DUI incident cost recovery and community partnership presentations. The meeting featured public comments on community safety and veterans' affairs but no other procurement actions were noted.