City Council Approves Agreement for San Rafael Sanitation District Transition

Sewer service will continue as Central Marin Sanitation Agency assumes operations

The San Rafael City Council has approved an agreement supporting the San Rafael Sanitation District's transition from City-supported staffing and administrative services to the Central Marin Sanitation Agency.

The San Rafael Sanitation District is a separate public agency that provides sewer services to parts of San Rafael and unincorporated Marin County. For many years, the City has supported the District with staffing, administrative services, coordination, and use of certain City facilities. The District has now determined that a dedicated wastewater operations model will better meet its long-term staffing and service needs.

Earlier this year, the District approved an agreement with the Central Marin Sanitation Agency, which will take on specific operational responsibilities and hire employees currently assigned to District functions.

The approved separation agreement creates a clear transition path while addressing service continuity, financial responsibilities, records, property access, and other closeout needs.

"This agreement provides a defined and practical roadmap for the transition," said Angela Robinson Piñon, Assistant City Manager. "Most importantly, it is designed to help maintain essential sewer services while clarifying each agency's responsibilities moving forward."

The change does not dissolve the San Rafael Sanitation District, which will remain a separate public agency. The City's current support role will continue until the Central Marin Sanitation Agency is ready to begin services under its separate agreement with the District.

City staff recommended approval of the agreement, which is intended to protect City interests, ensure uninterrupted sewer service, clarify financial and administrative responsibilities, set timelines for transferring records and property, and coordinate public communication about future service contracts.