BOARD AGENDA MEMORANDUM
Government Code § 84308 Applies: Yes ☐ No ☒
(If “YES” Complete Attachment A - Gov. Code § 84308)
SUBJECT: Title
Adopt a Resolution Recognizing the City of Santa Clara for Being the First City to Adopt Model Water Efficient New Development Ordinance Measures.
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RECOMMENDATION: Recommendation
Adopt the resolution EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO THE CITY OF SANTA CLARA for being the first city to adopt Model Water Efficient New Development Ordinance measures.
Body
SUMMARY:
Santa Clara Valley Water District (Valley Water) recognizes the City of Santa Clara (City) as the first city to adopt measures from the Model Water Efficient New Development Ordinance (MWENDO). The Board of Directors will consider a formal resolution recognizing the City of Santa Clara and commending the City’s commitment to sustainable water management. By adopting MWENDO measures through the City’s Rules and Regulations, the City demonstrates a proactive approach to maximizing water efficiency, water conservation, and enhancing resilience to local challenges such as climate variability, drought, and potential growth in water demand.
Background
MWENDO was developed through a collaborative effort involving Valley Water, the County of Santa Clara, cities, and other local partners to establish robust water efficiency standards for new development and major remodels. The ordinance provides a framework to support reliable local water supplies, address vulnerabilities related to climate variability and drought, and encourage sustainable, long-term water management. Valley Water engaged all municipalities in Santa Clara County to encourage consideration and adoption of MWENDO, in whole or in part, as a tool to advance water conservation and resilient community development.
Summary of the City of Santa Clara’s Adopted MWENDO Measures
The City of Santa Clara’s adopted MWENDO measures focus on improving water efficiency and sustainable water use. Key measures are summarized below:
Landscape and Irrigation: Irrigation of non-functional turf is prohibited on public medians and at commercial, industrial, institutional, and homeowners' association (HOA) sites. The installation of non-functional turf is also prohibited in new and existing non-residential and multifamily landscape projects, ensuring that water is used only for functional and productive purposes.
Recycled Water Use and Dual Plumbing: All new multifamily and non-residential developments must utilize recycled water for non-potable applications, including irrigation, cooling systems, dual plumbing, and construction activities where permitted. These measures preserve potable water for essential uses while encouraging the reuse of available resources.
Swimming Pool and Spa Efficiency: Newly constructed or modified pools and spas must be equipped with covers to reduce water evaporation. Limited exceptions are allowed for irregularly shaped pools or renovations with a valuation below a defined threshold.
Graywater Systems: Applicable single-family homes must incorporate graywater systems, including dual plumbing from laundry and bathroom fixtures, to enable future reuse for landscape irrigation. These systems promote onsite water recycling and reduce demand on potable water supplies.
Significance
Santa Clara’s adoption of MWENDO measures positions it as a regional leader in water sustainability. These measures address climate variability, future drought risk, and changes in urban water demand, while promoting cost-effective solutions for development. The City demonstrates a proactive approach to resilient and sustainable water management that can serve as a model for other municipalities.
Collectively, the adopted MWENDO measures provide a comprehensive framework for water conservation in both indoor and outdoor settings. They support efficient use of potable water, encourage reuse of alternative water sources, and foster sustainable building and landscape design practices. By implementing these measures, the City of Santa Clara sets a high standard for water-efficient development in the region.
In recognition of being the first city in Santa Clara County to adopt MWENDO measures since the ordinance’s development in 2015, the Valley Water Board of Directors will present a formal resolution to the City of Santa Clara, to be accepted on behalf of the City by Mayor Lisa Gillmor. This resolution honors the City’s leadership in advancing water efficiency, sustainable development, and regional water stewardship.
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE IMPACT:
There are no environmental justice impacts associated with this item.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact associated with this item.
CEQA:
The recommended action does not constitute a project under CEQA because it does not have the potential for resulting in direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1: Resolution
UNCLASSIFIED MANAGER: Manager
Marta Lugo, 408-630-2237