The City of Winters is advancing plans to upgrade its water treatment system to meet California’s new drinking water standard for hexavalent chromium, also known as chromium-6. Chromium-6 is a naturally occurring heavy metal that can pose health risks with long-term exposure.
While local drinking water remains safe, several City wells exceed California’s new chromium-6 limit. In order to maintain compliance with State regulations, the City must complete major water system improvements by Oct. 1, 2027.
California is currently the only state in the nation with its own drinking water standard for chromium-6, making these treatment upgrades a legal requirement rather than an optional improvement. Failure to comply could result in serious legal and financial penalties for the City.
“These upgrades will help us meet California’s new drinking water standard and continue providing safe, reliable water to our community,” said Mayor Albert Vallecillo. “We’re moving forward now so our water system is ready by the state deadline and can meet these requirements for years to come.”
The first phase is estimated to cost $15 to $20.5 million, plus ongoing operating and maintenance expenses. By comparison, the City collects about $1.6 million to $1.8 million each year from water charges.
For more than eight years, City leaders have raised concerns with state officials about the financial burden these regulations pose to small communities, while still supporting the goal of protecting public health. Winters is among 129 California communities facing costly upgrades to meet the new requirement, and seeks to provide a practical blueprint for effective compliance and transparent communication.
The City has applied for state financial assistance and is pursuing grants and low-interest loans. The project is eligible for grants and loan forgiveness, but funding has not yet been awarded.
“We want residents to understand what’s required, what work is underway and how it may affect them,” said City Manager Jeremy Craig. “We’ll share updates, answer questions and work with the community as we move through each step of this project.”
The City will be conducting a water rate study to better predict future expenses, cost pressures and specific impacts on water rates. Any proposed rate changes will include public notices, a hearing and an opportunity to submit written protests under California’s Proposition 218 process.
Resources and updates are continually being shared on the City website and via Winters’ social media channels so that residents can stay informed. Learn more at CityOfWinters.org/Chromium.