From controversy to consensus: The Redwood City recycled water experience

The Redwood City Recycled Water Project faced intense local opposition from a small but determined group of citizens who objected to the use of recycled water from a public health and safety perspective, particularly in areas where children play. In response to this opposition, the City Council eventually formed a community task force and empowered them to help develop a solution to the City's water supply problem. This paper presents the evolution of the project, from its impetus through the environmental review and project approval process; the task force operations and recommendations, which the Council enthusiastically endorsed, are described. The paper concludes with the current status of the project, and lessons the City learned through the process to create a community-based, consensus-driven solution.