The Wawona Town Planning Advisory Committee convened on October 3, 2025, to address critical water management issues affecting the community. A significant focus of the meeting was the need for improved water storage solutions to enhance resilience against seasonal shortages and support fire suppression efforts.

Committee members discussed the potential for individual water tanks and wells to alleviate water scarcity, particularly during the dry months. One member highlighted the importance of a comprehensive study to assess the community's water needs, suggesting that understanding both groundwater and storage options is essential for developing effective solutions. The discussion emphasized that the community only experiences water shortages for a few months each year, indicating that strategic planning could mitigate these issues.

The committee also explored the financial aspects of water management, considering how investments in water storage could be funded. Suggestions included charging fees to help amortize the costs of new infrastructure, similar to models used by private companies. This approach could provide a sustainable funding source for necessary improvements.

A key takeaway from the meeting was the consensus on the need for a detailed study to guide future actions. Members agreed that establishing clear language and objectives for this study is crucial before approaching the county for support. The committee plans to form an ad hoc group to refine these objectives and report back to the larger committee, aiming to expedite the process and ensure that the community's water needs are adequately addressed.

As the committee moves forward, the emphasis will be on collaboration and thorough planning to secure a resilient water supply for Wawona, ensuring both drinking water availability and fire safety for the community.