Hi-Desert Water District unanimously agrees to dissolve public advisory board
The Hi-Desert Water District took a decisive step last night, voting unanimously to dissolve a long-standing public advisory board. Originally created during the early days of Yucca Valley’s controversial sewer project, the board consisted of local residents who helped shape public understanding and district transparency. But as community participation declined over the years and meetings attracted fewer attendees, the board voted 5-0 to officially disband what some called “the end of an era.”
The now-dissolved Yucca Valley sewer project advisory committee was first formed in 2008 when the state threatened fines if the town didn’t replace failing septic systems. Yucca Valley residents were being asked to support a town-wide conversion from septic systems to sewer systems. The project faced widespread confusion and public pushback at the time, leading the High Desert Water District to create a citizen-led advisory group. At its peak, the committee had over 20 active members.
After finishing Phase One of the sewer system, and due to disruptions from COVID-19, committee participation dropped significantly. Recent meetings had only one or two attendees, and some residents said they weren’t even aware the group was still active.
During Wednesday’s meeting, board members acknowledged the important role the committee once played, while also recognizing its decreasing relevance in a digital age where board meetings are streamed, and public comment is accessible in multiple ways.
The 5-0 vote to shut it down was seen as both a practical and a heartfelt decision. Some members of the public, including former committee participants, expressed sadness to see it go but understood why the decision was made.
Board staff reminded residents that community participation is always welcome at meetings, online, or by reaching out directly.
