Candidate for
Board of Directors; Water Replenishment District of Southern California; Division 5

"Out west, the whiskey's for drinkin' and the water's for fightin' over." Mark Twain's observation from some 100 years ago are certainly true today.

It is very important that the fundamental resource of water be managed effectively and prudently. As the population of Southern California continues to grow, so grows the demand for water.

In 2004, California faces drought conditions. Therefore, it is critical that the underground aquifers not be overpumped, and that they be recharged. This recharge can come from imported water, such as the Colorado River or the State water system. It can also come from reclaimed water. As technology progresses, we have a greater ability to sanitize and filter the water that goes through our sewer systems. This is then distributed to local "spreading grounds", to slowly percolate to the underground aquifers.

Finally, it is also critical that the underground aquifers be protected from intrusion and contamination by pollutants, often left by heavy industries. The aquifers and basins must also be protected from the natural tendency of salt water (from the ocean) to intrude into the fresh water system.

Ultimately, leaders who are educated, creative and responsible must carry out the oversight of these activities. Once elected, I will provide that leadership by listening to the residents and the pumpers in the Central and West Basins. This governance must be as transparent and available to the public as the water itself.