Introduction
The Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency Voting Guide is designed to empower residents with all the information they need to make informed decisions in the upcoming Board of Directors election on November 5, 2024. As stewards of the community’s water resources, the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency (SCV Water) Board influences critical decisions about water quality, sustainability, infrastructure, and resource management.
This voting guide provides detailed insights into the election process, candidates, and pressing issues, ensuring you cast a vote that reflects your priorities for a sustainable and secure water future.
About the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency
The Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency manages water resources for one of California’s fastest-growing regions. The agency’s responsibilities include:
- Ensuring safe and reliable water supply.
- Overseeing infrastructure development and upgrades.
- Implementing sustainability and conservation initiatives.
- Addressing the impacts of climate change on water resources.
The SCV Water Board consists of nine members, elected from three divisions within the Santa Clarita Valley. In this election, six board seats are up for grabs, giving residents a significant opportunity to shape the agency’s leadership and policies.
Election Details
Key Information
- Election Date: November 5, 2024
- Polling Hours: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Polling Locations: Use the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk website to find your designated polling station.
Seats Available
- Division 1: Two full-term seats
- Division 2: Two full-term seats
- Division 3: One full-term seat and one two-year term seat
Candidates in the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency Voting Guide
Division 1 Candidates
- Gary Martin (Incumbent): An experienced board member committed to maintaining water quality and addressing infrastructure needs.
- Dan Masnada: A former general manager with a proven record of strategic leadership and long-term planning.
- Paula Olivares: An engineering educator focusing on community engagement and innovative water solutions.
Division 2 Candidates
- Piotr Orzechowski (Incumbent): Advocates for water conservation and renewable energy integration in water systems.
- Nathan Bousfield: A business professional focused on modernizing infrastructure and optimizing costs.
- Ken Cooper: Promotes transparent governance and greater community involvement in decision-making.
Division 3 Candidates
- Full-Term Seat:
- Kathye Armitage (Incumbent): A strong proponent of sustainability and innovative water management practices.
- Holly Schroeder: Focused on balancing economic development with long-term resource preservation.
- Two-Year Term Seat:
- Ken Petersen: A seasoned expert in water infrastructure projects, emphasizing proactive upgrades.
- Stacy Fortner: A grassroots leader prioritizing environmental stewardship and community collaboration.
Key Issues in the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency Voting Guide
Water Conservation and Sustainability
Water conservation remains a top priority as California continues to face drought conditions. Key questions to consider:
- Do candidates have actionable plans to reduce water waste?
- Are they committed to promoting water-efficient technologies and practices?
Infrastructure Development
Reliable water delivery requires continuous investment in infrastructure. Evaluate candidates based on their focus on:
- Repairing and upgrading pipelines.
- Expanding storage capacity for water security.
- Adopting advanced treatment technologies.
Addressing Climate Change
The growing impact of climate change on water resources necessitates innovative solutions. Look for candidates with strategies to:
- Incorporate renewable energy in operations.
- Improve resilience against extreme weather events.
- Foster eco-friendly practices in water management.
Transparency and Community Engagement
Effective governance hinges on accountability and communication. Consider candidates who:
- Hold regular public meetings and share updates.
- Actively engage with residents to gather input on key issues.
- Demonstrate a commitment to financial transparency.
Why Your Vote Matters
The Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency Voting Guide emphasizes the importance of participating in this pivotal election. The SCV Water Board’s decisions affect:
- Water Quality: Ensuring safe drinking water for all residents.
- Water Supply: Managing resources to meet growing demand while mitigating shortages.
- Infrastructure Reliability: Preventing service disruptions through strategic planning.
By voting, you influence policies that shape the valley’s water future, ensuring sustainability and resilience for generations to come.
How to Vote
Step 1: Verify Your Registration
Check your voter registration status at the California Voter Registration website.
Step 2: Locate Your Polling Place
Use the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk website to find your polling station.
Step 3: Review Candidate Platforms
Visit candidates’ campaign websites or consult local voter guides for detailed information on their platforms and endorsements.
Step 4: Cast Your Vote
Vote in person or by mail. Ensure your mail-in ballot is submitted on time to be counted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the SCV Water Board do?
The board oversees water supply, infrastructure projects, conservation programs, and financial planning for the Santa Clarita Valley.
Why is this election important?
With six seats open, this election will shape the future of water management, including policies on sustainability and infrastructure development.
How can I learn more about the candidates?
Visit their campaign websites, attend public forums, or consult local publications for endorsements and platforms.
Can I vote early or by mail?
Yes, early voting and mail-in ballots are available. Check the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk website for details.
Conclusion
The Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency Voting Guide serves as a comprehensive resource for making informed choices in the November 5, 2024, election. By understanding the candidates’ platforms and priorities, you can help shape the policies that ensure a sustainable and equitable water future for the community.
Your voice matters—cast your vote and take an active role in building a resilient water system for the Santa Clarita Valley. Together, we can secure the resources and infrastructure necessary to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.
