As we step into 2025, I am thrilled to share that this year marks a significant milestone for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA)—our 75th anniversary. For seven and a half decades, IEUA has been dedicated to public health and environmental stewardship while being a leader in water and wastewater management.  What initially started as an effort by the voters in 1950 to ensure that our region had access to imported water supplies has transformed into a forward-thinking water and wastewater treatment agency that continues to provide exceptional service to our community.  Today, we serve approximately 935,000 people across 242 square miles in western San Bernardino County. Our theme for the year, ‘75 Years of Partnership and Progress,’ embodies the collaboration and innovation that has driven our achievements and will continue to guide us toward a more sustainable region.

Reflecting on Our Journey

In 2024, we made remarkable strides that have positioned us for an even greater impact in 2025. The Regional Water Recycling Plant No. 5 (RP-5) Expansion Project in Chino is nearing completion—a state-of-the-art facility that will significantly boost treatment capacity and improve the quality of recycled water. This expansion is a key part of our efforts to reduce reliance on imported water and provide higher-quality, sustainable water resources for our growing region.

The Chino Basin Program (CBP) continues to drive transformative progress in regional water management. Planning efforts for the Advanced Water Purification Facility continue for this important project that will add 15,000 acre-feet of advanced purified recycled water annually to be stored in the Chino Basin. Not only will CBP boost local water supply flexibility, but it will also strengthen our ability to respond to emergencies and extended droughts, ensuring long-term water security.

At the heart of our mission is community engagement and education. Through campaigns like ‘Be Sewer Smart,’ we empower residents to adopt responsible practices, such as properly disposing of fats, oils, and greases (FOG) and non-flushable wipes. These efforts play a vital role in protecting critical infrastructure and public health, reflecting our commitment to the community’s well-being.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate this monumental 75th anniversary, we are reminded of the resilience, innovation, and partnerships that have shaped our success. With the support of our dedicated staff and strong community and service partnerships, we will continue advancing water resiliency, sustainability, and infrastructure development for generations to come.

I invite you to explore our 75th anniversary page to learn more about our journey and see how we’re shaping the future of water management. Let’s celebrate 75 years of progress together as we continue to secure tomorrow’s water, TODAY.

Thank you for being a part of our journey.

Shivaji Deshmukh, P.E.
General Manager