What is your position on Cal Am's proposed desalination plant in Marina? What about desalination in general? What kind of desal plant, if any, would you support?

The proposed desalination plant on the Monterey Peninsula raises important questions about timing and resource allocation. If the region experiences the population growth projected by the governor's office, such a facility could become crucial in meeting future water needs. However, the current necessity of the plant is questionable, given existing water conservation efforts and alternative supply options.

A key concern is the efficiency of the planned desalination plant. The technology proposed may not be sufficiently advanced to justify the substantial investment required from California American Water (Cal Am) or the financial burden that would be passed on to ratepayers. Desalination is known for its high energy consumption and operational costs, which can lead to increased water prices for consumers.

Potential environmental impacts of saltwater intrusion, combined with the high costs, suggest that other water management strategies – such as improved conservation measures, water recycling, and stormwater capture – might be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives in the short to medium term.