(10:43) BOULDER CREEK – The San Lorenzo Valley Water District has approved plans to increase water rates and merge with a neighboring water agency. Last night, the district agreed to commit to a merger with the Lompico Water District, with the approval of Lompico voters. The SLV water board is also considering raising water rates to cover the costs of several capital improvement projects. The board plans to have a hearing on the surcharge before it is finalized. The meeting will be held November 19 at the district’s operations building on Highway 9 in Boulder Creek. (S.G.)