Corona Daily Brief: Council Actions, Water Meter Upgrades, and County Settlement
Corona, CA — February 6, 2026 — City leaders reviewed downtown plans this week as smart water meter upgrades continue and a major county settlement draws local attention.
City Council Meets With Downtown and Infrastructure in Focus
The Corona City Council held its regular meeting Wednesday evening at City Hall, with discussion centered on ongoing downtown improvements and upcoming capital projects. City leaders reaffirmed timelines tied to street work near the Circle and continued planning tied to long‑term revitalization efforts.
Public comment focused largely on traffic flow, construction impacts, and maintaining access for local businesses as projects move forward this year. City officials emphasized phased construction to limit disruption and said additional updates will be shared as schedules firm up.
Smart Water Meter Upgrades Continue Citywide
Corona’s multi‑year smart water meter upgrade remains underway, with crews continuing installations across residential neighborhoods. The new meters allow customers to track hourly water use, receive leak alerts, and view detailed billing data through the city’s online portal.
City staff say the rollout is designed to improve conservation and reduce surprise bills caused by hidden leaks. Residents are encouraged to watch for advance notices before work begins on their street.
Riverside County Settlement Draws Regional Attention
A newly announced $13.5 million settlement involving Riverside County and a foster care agency has renewed regional discussion about child welfare oversight. While the case is countywide, local advocates in Corona say it highlights the importance of monitoring reforms and transparency at all levels of government.
County officials say policy changes and staffing increases have already been implemented since the events that led to the lawsuit. Community groups continue to call for sustained accountability moving forward.
What to Watch
City officials are expected to release additional construction updates later this month, including timelines tied to downtown street improvements and utility work. Residents can also expect continued outreach related to the water meter program as installations progress.