In this episode, Suzan Chin-Taylor sits down with Hye Jin Lee, P.E., the Public Works Director for the City of Chino, to explore how proactive sewer system management is transforming the city’s infrastructure and protecting its future. From mutual aid partnerships with the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) to aggressive trenchless rehab strategies and innovative sewer lateral programs, Chino is leading by example in tackling infiltration and inflow (I&I) challenges head-on.
Hye Jin shares the city’s experience hosting a regional training event, how they’re addressing aging infrastructure with cost-effective cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, and the unique steps they’ve taken to assume responsibility for customer-side sewer laterals. She also discusses Chino’s investment in CCTV inspections, capital planning, and how high groundwater levels impact system performance in Southern California.
This episode is full of practical insights for municipal leaders, engineers, and wastewater professionals looking to modernize systems and reduce the burden on treatment plants.
Host: Suzan Chin-Taylor | Guest: Hye Jin Lee
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What You’ll Learn:
- How the City of Chino leverages mutual aid programs and regional partnerships
- Why trenchless technology is a game-changer for aging infrastructure
- Chino’s strategy for managing I&I through lateral replacements and point repairs
- How customer education plays into long-term system sustainability
- The importance of proactive capital improvement planning using real-time inspection data
Mentioned in This Episode:
- City of Chino: cityofchino.org
- Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA)
- Chino Basin Watermaster
Contact Information:
Hye Jin Lee, Public Works Director
Websites: cityofchino.org
Email: hjlee@cityofchino.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hye-jin-lee-ms-pe-6a07a322/
Conclusion:
The City of Chino is proving that forward-thinking leadership, regional collaboration, and smart investments in infrastructure can make a real impact. By prioritizing I&I reduction, implementing trenchless technologies, and taking responsibility for aging laterals, the city is not just solving today’s problems—but preventing tomorrow’s. Hye Jin Lee’s insight reminds us that true progress in public works comes from both innovation and intentional partnerships. Stay tuned for part two, where we dive into how Chino is turning wastewater into a valuable resource in a water-scarce region.
Until next time—keep growing, and keep it flowing. 💧
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Connect with Suzan Chin-Taylor, host of The DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money Podcast:
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