South Mesa Water Company Heli-Hydrant Project
Summary
SCH Number
2025110370
Public Agency
San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency
Document Title
South Mesa Water Company Heli-Hydrant Project
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
11/10/2025
Document Description
On October 20, 2025, the San Gorgonio Water Agency ("Agency") approved the South Mesa Water Company Heli-Hydrant Project ("Project"). The Project involves the construction of a tank system for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) to provide additional water resources during wildfire events. The tank system will improve CAL FIRE pilots’ response time to eradicate fire and reduce the risk of loss of life and property to the surrounding communities within Riverside County, specifically to Agency customers.
Contact Information
Name
Emmett Campbell
Agency Name
San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency
Job Title
Director of Water Resources
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Email
Name
Dave Armstrong
Agency Name
South Mesa Water Company
Job Title
General Manager
Contact Types
Parties Undertaking Project
Address
Phone
Location
Cities
Calimesa
Counties
Riverside
Regions
Citywide
Parcel #
APN 413-082-024
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
State CEQA Guidelines section 15303
Reasons for Exemption
The Project is categorically exempt from CEQA review pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines § 15303 (Class 3 Categorical Exemption). The Class 3 Categorical Exemption is applicable to the construction and location of limited numbers of new, small facilities or structures including water facilities. Here, the Project calls for the installation of a small water tank that connects to the existing District water system. The heli-hydrants will provide a water source for CAL Fire in the case of wildfire emergencies.
Finally, none of the “exceptions” to the categorical exemptions apply under State CEQA Guidelines § 15300.2.
County Clerk
Riverside
Attachments
Notice of Exemption
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