Dear Cambrians,

We are pleased to share an encouraging update on our efforts to secure the Coastal Development Permit for the Water Reclamation Facility, a critical project for Cambria’s long-term water sustainability and community resilience. Our dedicated team, working closely with the California Coastal Commission staff, has significantly progressed in addressing the required information hold items. We are now down to approximately seven remaining items, which we have consultants and engineers addressing as we speak, and we continue to have constructive and engaged conversations with County and Coastal Commission staff to ensure we can move this project forward efficiently and collaboratively.

Reaching this stage is a monumental step for the District and our community. The Water Reclamation Facility represents a key investment in securing a sustainable, reliable water supply while protecting our sensitive coastal environment for generations to come. We appreciate our community’s patience and support as we work through this critical permitting process. We will continue to keep you informed along the way.

The Wastewater Treatment Plant is currently undergoing a major $12 million upgrade to modernize and enhance its treatment process. These capital improvements are part of the infrastructure projects identified during the Proposition 218 rate increase process and are being funded through those approved rate adjustments. 

This critical project includes extensive underground work, tank rehabilitation, and other improvements that are necessary to ensure the long-term reliability and efficiency of the plant. While this work is underway, you may notice an increase in heavy equipment activity and construction-related noise in the area. 

We understand that these disruptions can be inconvenient, and we sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding as we move forward with these vital improvements. Once completed, the upgraded facility will provide significant benefits to the community, including improved treatment performance, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance.

We would also like to extend a huge thank you to our dedicated staff, whose hard work and commitment have been instrumental in taking on this complex project and ensuring it continues to move forward smoothly. Their efforts behind the scenes are what make projects like this possible.

Administrative & Finance Departments 

Utility Billing Summary Pages Availability

The Utility Billing Summary Pages will be made available on the District’s website on or around July 17, 2025 at the following link: https://www.cambriacsd.org/district-financial-information. 

Facilities & Resources Department

Maintenance Technician Recruitment 

The Cambria Community Services District is currently accepting applications to establish a hiring list for the position of Maintenance Technician in the Facilities & Resources Department. This recruitment will remain open until the District’s needs are met. For first consideration, apply immediately. For more information, click here.

Cambria Veterans' Memorial Hall

The Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) owns and operates the Cambria Veterans’ Memorial Building. As part of a facility rental, renters and their guests are allowed to use the Veterans Hall parking lot.

Please note that the public may not use the Veterans Hall parking lot or restrooms for unrelated events or gatherings in the area. To help keep these facilities available for those who have reserved them, we kindly ask the community to use alternative parking and restroom facilities during events not hosted at the Veterans Hall.

If you would like to rent the Veterans Hall building or parking lot, please visit our website at https://www.cambriacsd.org/cambria-veterans-memorial-hall.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Cambria Fire Department

Conclusion of SAFER Grant and Fire Department Staffing Update

We mark the conclusion of the SAFER Grant, which successfully funded three additional firefighter positions for the Cambria CSD Fire Department over the past several years. With the grant's conclusion, staffing will adjust from four firefighters on an engine to three. However, we want to assure the Cambria community that this change will not impact local emergency response.

The Cambria CSD Fire Department continues to be staffed with highly trained and dedicated professionals committed to protecting our community. The Cambria Community Healthcare District continues to operate two ambulances—each staffed with a paramedic and an EMT.

Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program

On Thursday, July 17, 2025, the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) Board of Directors will hold a Public Hearing to consider the abatement of public nuisances under the Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program.

A list of properties that failed to comply with the program requirements will be included in the July 17, 2025, Board Meeting Agenda Packet, which will be made available to the public no later than 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

Property owners with parcels on the contract abatement list will be billed for services rendered by the District’s Contractor, plus a $100 to $200 administrative fee, depending on when payment is received. Funds not recovered through this billing process will be placed on the County Tax Roll for the fiscal year 2025/26.

Please note: The CCSD is not responsible for the contractor’s service charges.

Meet the Fire Chief

On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Fire Chief Michael Burkey will be working out of the Cambria Veterans' Memorial Hall and would love to meet you and hear your thoughts on anything related to the Cambria Fire Department. 

Cambria Wildfire Readiness: It Starts with You  

Fire Doesn’t Stop at the Fence Line. Neither Should Preparedness.

Cambria is in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, surrounded by dense wildland vegetation, which increases the potential for rapid fire spread. Additionally, narrow roads and limited access routes can complicate evacuation efforts and hinder emergency response. In such settings, creating and maintaining defensible space around properties is vital.  

Plan with your family and coordinate with neighbors to ensure everyone is ready to evacuate and respond safely during a fire emergency. Cambria’s older population and smaller household sizes make strong community networks essential. Building these connections and proactively preparing greatly improves your chances of surviving wildfires and minimizing damage. 

Community Liaisons

New Online Sign-Up Option for Liaisons

We’ve added a feature to our website, allowing community members to sign up online to become a Community Liaison. This tool makes it easier to invite neighbors, friends, or anyone interested in actively participating in community readiness. Please share the link and encourage others to join our growing network. Click here to sign up.

The CCSD sent a Wildfire Readiness document to all ratepayers. Download a copy of the document below.

Water & Wastewater Departments

Please refer to the July 10, 2025 Board Meeting agenda packet to read the latest utilities report.

Water Treatment Plant Operator-In-Training (OIT), I, II, or Water Systems Operator T3/D2 Recruitment 

The Cambria Community Services District is currently accepting applications for one (1) position in the Water Department. The position may be filled at one of the following levels, depending on qualifications:

• Water Treatment Plant Operator-In-Training (OIT)
• Water Treatment Plant Operator I or II
• Water Systems Operator T3/D2

This recruitment will remain open until the position is filled. For more information, click here.

CCSD Board of Directors Meeting

Special Board Meeting

📅 Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025

⏰ Time: 9:00 AM
📍 Location: 1000 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428

Public Participation:
✉️ Written comments may be submitted via email to boardcomment@cambriacsd.org or through the submission portal anytime before the Board meeting. 

CCSD Standing Committee Meeting

Resources & Infrastructure Committee Meeting

📅 Date: Monday, July 14, 2025
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM
📍 Location: 1000 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428

Public Participation: Members of the public can submit written comments to be read at Standing Committee meetings.

Meet the General Manager

On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., I will be working out of the Cambria Veterans' Memorial Hall and would love to meet you and hear your thoughts on everything, Cambria. We will provide coffee and snacks; as always, we welcome your feedback and ideas. 

If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Thank you again for your support; I am at your service. 

Matthew McElhenie