The San Diego County Water Authority has announced a 21-year agreement to sell surplus water to the Western Municipal Water District in Riverside County, potentially offsetting costs for local customers. The district will pay $13.5 million annually for 10,000 acre-feet of water, enough for 30,000 homes, and will also contribute $40 million up front for the equivalent of three-years supply that can be tapped in case of an drought emergency. The agreement was praised by San Diego political and business leaders, with some calling it a "smart, forward-looking approach" that helps control wholesale water rates while ensuring the reliable supply for the region.