08-17-26 Water Resources Advisory Board Meeting

The City of Boulder Water Resources Advisory Board (WRAB) held a meeting on August 17, 2026, focusing primarily on the Utilities Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and related budget and rate discussions. Key topics included updates on major water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure projects scheduled for 2027, such as the South Boulder Creek Flood Mitigation Project, which has faced litigation and significant cost increases now estimated at around $76 million. Public comments raised concerns about project transparency, cost overruns, and the need for third-party reviews. The board discussed the prioritization of projects based on risk, cost, and equity considerations, and the financial impacts of proposed utility rate increases—5% for water and 7% for wastewater and stormwater fees in 2027. The meeting also covered reserve fund policies, bond financing, and efforts to balance infrastructure needs with community affordability. No formal votes on procurement were recorded, but the board is expected to make recommendations on the CIP to City Council in September. Additionally, the meeting addressed drought management coordination and cybersecurity risks to water utilities.