Tulare County RMA Appointed First Sewer System Administrator in California

On June 11, 2025, the Tulare County Resource Management Agency (RMA) was officially appointed as the Sewer System Administrator for East Orosi, which is the first appointment of its kind in California.

This historic milestone was made possible through legislation created by Senator Melissa Hurtado, who sponsored a bill granting the State Water Resources Control Board the authority to appoint administrators for troubled wastewater systems. With the RMA now serving as administrator, the agency has assumed full responsibility for managing and maintaining East Orosi’s sewer system. In July, the RMA began billing customers directly, ensuring that operational costs are covered through rates collected from users. This financial model allows the agency to operate sustainably while protecting public health and the environment.

“A willingness to fulfill this role and a willingness to find creative solutions has been key to moving any of this forward,” said RMA Grants Manager Denise England

The appointment underscores Tulare County’s leadership role in addressing critical infrastructure needs, while also marking the beginning of a new chapter in how California supports communities with essential services.