The California Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee convened on March 11, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding flood management and infrastructure in the state. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for increased funding and strategic planning to enhance flood protection systems, particularly in light of recent climate challenges.

Key discussions centered on the historical performance of California's flood control systems, which have managed to withstand numerous high-water events since the 1950s. However, experts warned that the current infrastructure is underfunded and at risk of failure. A significant focus was placed on the need for a consistent annual budget of approximately $380 million for flood control, as outlined in the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan. Currently, funding has fallen short, with recent state budgets allocating only around $120 million, insufficient for necessary maintenance and improvements.

The committee also reviewed the implications of past flood events, notably the 1986 flood that led to the Paterno decision, where the state was held liable for damages due to inadequate levee inspections. This historical context underscored the importance of proactive investment in flood management to prevent future disasters.

Megan Najee, General Manager of the Sacramento River West Bridal Levee District, emphasized that California is "one storm away from disaster," highlighting the fragility of the levee systems and the need for immediate action to bolster flood resilience. She noted that while recent years have seen successful flood management, the lack of investment could lead to catastrophic failures in the future.

The meeting also addressed the necessity of supporting bond measures for flood control projects. A proposed $6.1 billion bond for statewide flood control and dam safety was discussed, but it faced challenges in the legislative process, resulting in a significantly reduced funding package. Stakeholders stressed that consistent funding is essential for leveraging federal investments, which have already brought in over $2 billion for urban flood risk reduction.

Ken Hyatt, City Manager of Woodland, shared insights on the city's flood risks and the challenges of securing local support for flood protection initiatives. He outlined plans for a comprehensive study to identify solutions that would garner broad community backing while addressing the impacts of climate change on flood risk.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions underscored the critical need for increased investment in California's flood management systems. As climate change continues to pose significant risks, stakeholders urged the legislature to prioritize funding and support for flood control measures to safeguard communities across the state. The call to action is clear: without adequate investment, California risks repeating the mistakes of the past, potentially leading to devastating consequences for its residents.