Get Involved in the Future of Local Water 

The City of San Luis Obispo is one of the 16 regional stakeholders participating in the planning and feasibility study phase of the County of San Luis Obispo’s Regional Desalination Executable Solution and Logistics (DESAL) Plan. This plan, led by the San Luis Obispo County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, is studying whether a desalination system—one that turns ocean water into drinking water—could work for our region.

The City's Role

 As a stakeholder, the City is helping get the word out about opportunities for the public to learn more about the DESAL Plan, ask questions, and provide input at the meeting and through the County’s public survey. 

The City’s involvement during the current phase is limited to staff participation in coordination efforts and meetings. The City will also give feedback and share information to help shape the DESAL Plan and how it’s shared with the public, agencies, and other groups.

This work supports the City’s Major City Goal of ensuring that utilities are well maintained and ready to support future growth and development. It also continues the City’s ongoing collaboration with the County and other regional partners on important water-related issues. This work is in alignment with the City’s General Plan Water and Wastewater Element goals, policies, and programs to: ensure a long-term, reliable water supply; utilize multiple water resources to meet its water supply needs; and work cooperatively on regional water issues and water resource planning.

Upcoming Virtual Community Meeting

San Luis Obispo County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (District) Community Meeting Hosted and Facilitated by the San Luis Obispo County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (District).

Monday, September 15, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.

Why the City is a stakeholder: Working with our regional partners helps bring value to our community. The City is looking at many different ways to make sure we have a safe, reliable, and drought-proof water supply that will last through the end of this century and beyond.

Background: In January 2023, the San Luis Obispo City Council adopted a Resolution authorizing the City’s participation in the County’s preliminary scoping and planning efforts to develop the DESAL Plan. This gave the City a seat at the table as a stakeholder and allowed the City to be evaluated and participate in the development of the scope of the regional DESAL plan. Should further steps be taken to advance DESAL and should the City agree to participate (as authorized by the City Council), shared governance would be an essential component for decision making.