League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 2, 2010 Election
	Dan Furtado Answers Questions Candidate for Director; Santa Clara Valley Water District; Division 4

The questions were prepared by the Leagues of Women Voters of Santa Clara County and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. What are the three top issues facing the Water District, and what are some of the solutions you believe will address the problems?

1. Transparency, accountability, public communication. The District has important responsibilities and a competent staff. It needs to communicate its message more effectively. 2. Provide sufficient water for residents and business. We can meet our water needs with cooperation and conservation. 3. Develop comprehensive Board policies to (a) ensure adequate & safe water, (b) flood, reservoir, & creek protection, and (c) environmental stewardship.

2. What experience and training do you have which would help the Water District meet its goals?

I have over 14 years in public office as a city councilmember, 3 terms as Mayor, and a broad base of experience in local government policy issues, including service on the boards of the National League of Cities, the League of California Cities, the Association of Bay Area Governments, and the Santa Clara County Cities Association. I have served on the Water District Guadalupe/West Valley Flood Control & Watershed Committee.

3. How will you balance your constituents needs and interests with residential, agricultural and business needs of entire county while safeguarding the environment?

All of these components need water, want to secure it at affordable rates, want protection from floods, and recognize the importance of protecting the environment. I believe that the goals are achievable. Conservation of water in landscaping and watering times management (drought-resistant plants/use of less total water), use in the home and in business of measures/devices that promote less water waste, and simple remedies for less water run-off and on-property recycling of outdoor water use can be implemented with education. Efficient and less water use per acre in agriculture can result in growing more food.

4. What is your evaluation of the financial condition of the Water District and how would you ensure that maintenance of infrastructures remains a priority?

I believe the District has both water resources and finances to meet its needs. In addition to funds from water retailers, the District has received grants (state and federal funds, including stimulus funding), and it also receives funding from various previously-passed bonds. The current budget is $315M and includes position cuts and reduced consultant use. I plan to review the status of funds of various bond and parcel tax measures, and I will analyze projects both completed and planned under the specific funding, including evaluation methods for projects both completed and proposed.Infrastructure maintenance is paramount to safety, and supply of water.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' responses are not edited or corrected by the League. Answers must not refer directly or indirectly to another candidate.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: October 2, 2010 22:41
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