Hollister · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hollister public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Storm drain funding gap
Councilmember de Anda learned the storm drain program has no dedicated revenue — the utility was never created, so general fund dollars clean the storm drains. Turning it into a utility would require a taxpayer vote.
2025 Water Quality Results
Hollister's tap water is 39% groundwater while Sunny Slope customers get 82% surface water — a historical staff-level decision, not a council policy. The council asked for costs to improve the blend and for a mix that gets chromium-6 below 10 parts per billion, plus a study session with independent experts.
Water rate increase from $17 to $33 base rate
Hollister water rates had not kept up with inflation and costs; the fund is running a deficit. The council chose a 30% bridge increase instead of 83%, with a 25% discount for low-income CARE-qualified residents, pending a deeper analysis in the fall.
Veolia wastewater contract amendment
After a year of violations at the wastewater treatment plant and a state water board visit, the council approved restructuring the Veolia contract into one-year terms, giving the city annual chances to hold the operator accountable or seek bids from other vendors.
Water Fund Structural Deficit and Rates
The water fund hasn't paid for itself since 2018 and is $21 million in the red. New water rates are coming within about a month and will appear in the FY 2026-27 budget with multi-year general fund repayments.
Sewer plant capacity vs. approved developments
The plant is permitted for 4.08 million gallons a day, but developments like San Juan Oaks, Gavilan College and Cielo Vista were approved on the assumption that new membranes would raise capacity — which the water board hasn't granted. Councilmembers demanded to know who is actually connected to the plant.