(a)For the purposes of implementing subdivision (a) of Section 79545, eligible projects shall be selected based on demonstrated need for new or alternative water supplies, project readiness, and the degree to which the project avoids or mitigates adverse environmental impacts. Preference shall be given to eligible projects that incorporate ecosystem restoration and water quality benefits.
(b) A grant made pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 79545 may not exceed five million dollars ($5,000,000).
(c) For the purposes of this section, “desalination project” includes construction, planning, engineering, design, environmental assessments, or related work necessary for the construction of a desalination facility, or the construction of a pilot or demonstration facility.
(Added by Stats. 2003, Ch. 240, Sec. 34. Effective August 13, 2003.)