CALIFORNIA IN BRIEF : VENTURA : Agency Sues State to Reclaim Funds

Ventura County’s largest water wholesaler is leading an effort to reclaim nearly $6 million that it says was illegally taken from public agencies in the county to help balance the state budget. Other local agencies are expected to join Calleguas Municipal Water District in a precedent-setting lawsuit that seeks to force state officials to return property tax money lost during state budget cuts in September. The taking of property tax money historically allocated to special districts is tantamount to raising taxes on some residents without informing the public, said Donald R. Kendall, general manager of Calleguas. Facing shortfalls in funding, most affected agencies will have to increase fees or rates, he said.