Join us for a virtual panel discussion that will explore the importance of water system consolidation in building resilient, sustainable, and equitable water infrastructure across California.
With experts from the State Water Resources Control Board, the SAFER program, and local water systems, this event will offer a comprehensive overview of how consolidation works and its critical role in addressing climate change and water security challenges.
Our panelists will provide insights into:
What water system consolidation is and why it's a priority for California
The roles of the State Water Board, SAFER, and LAFCO in facilitating and supporting consolidation efforts
Real-world lessons learned from water systems navigating the consolidation process, with a focus on the complexities, challenges, and opportunities involved
Whether you're new to water system consolidation or currently involved in a consolidation effort, this event will offer valuable perspectives and practical takeaways. Gain insights into the financial, operational, and public outreach aspects of consolidation, and hear firsthand how collaboration can drive lasting improvements in water service.
Our Speakers
This webinar will be moderated By Lydia Holland | National Water Sector Marketing Lead for GEI Consultants
Laurel Firestone was appointed to the State Water Resources Control Board in 2019 and reappointed by Governor Newsom in February 2023. Prior to joining the Board, Laurel co-founded and co-directed, from 2006-2019, the Community Water Center, a statewide non-profit environmental justice organization based in California's Central Valley and Central Coast. Her career has focused on ensuring all Californians have access to safe, clean, and affordable drinking water, and building increased diversity, equity, and inclusivity into water decision-making. Laurel has received a variety of awards and recognitions for her work, including the James Irvine Foundation's Leadership Award in 2018, and the Gary Bellow Public Service Award by the Harvard Law School in 2013.
Laurel served on the Tulare County Water Commission from 2007-2012, as well as a variety of state policy advisory committees. She has partnered with universities to develop research and clinical programs to further the human right to water, and written articles and publications related to drinking water and the environment. Laurel graduated with honors from Harvard Law School and holds B.A. magna cum laude in Environmental Studies from Brown University.
Adriana Renteria is the Director of the Office of Public Participation (OPP) at the California State Water Resources Control Board / SAFER , which was created to ensure the Water Boards’ decision-making processes involve the public and incorporate perspectives from underserved communities and California Native American Tribes. OPP supports the Water Boards by implementing effective stakeholder engagement and public outreach, facilitating meetings, and providing resources for language access. Adriana is also the Water Boards' Tribal Liaison and, in this capacity, they facilitate government-to-government consultations between the Water Boards and California Native American Tribes.
Previously, Adriana was Regional Water Manager at the Community Water Center and Coordinator for the People of Color Sustainability Collective at the UC Santa Cruz American Indian Resource Center. They have years of experience supporting community involvement and representation in water governance, including in the implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act. They have developed and facilitated workshops, programs, and events related to environmental justice, Human Right to Water, groundwater management, racial justice and racial equity, gender justice, and community leadership.
José Henriquez has 21 years of experience and currently serves as Executive Officer at Sacramento Local Agency Formation Commission. He is also Adjunct Faculty at Sacramento State University and teaches two graduate courses in public administration for the California Executive Fellows Program. Sometimes you can catch him fielding questions about government and elections at the Sacramento area Univision and Estrella TV affiliates.
He lives in Folsom with his wife, an orange house tiger, an orange house puma and an orange house lion.
Dan York is the General Manager of Sacramento Suburban Water District. Dan has 43 years of service in the Public Sector of water utilities. Prior to joining Sacramento Suburban Water District in 1996, Dan began his career as an operator at Rio Linda Water District. Dan has always appreciated being part of a team that is responsible for delivering a safe and reliable water supply to the public.
Dan has been married for 38 years and has three beautiful children, one granddaughter, and a grandson arriving in November. He loves spending time with his family and a nice round of golf with family and friends.
Registration
Registration is free for active AWWEE members. AWWEE members can have up to 2 guests (new to AWWEE please) added to their registration. Non-member registration fee is $20.