2 new Board Members and 4 returning Board Members Sworn in; Board approves 2022 Strategic Plan

The Central Arizona Water Conservation District Board of Directors (CAWCD) convened virtually today for its December 2020 board meeting. CAWCD Board President Lisa Atkins chaired the meeting from the headquarters boardroom and all other board members participated via WebEx. The public was invited to watch the livestream and to provide public comment via the Board’s online “Blue Card.” CAWCD Board meetings will be held virtually through at least March 2021, in accordance with CAP’s headquarters closure to keep employees safe and water flowing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vice Chief Justice Ann A. Scott Timmer, Arizona Supreme Court, virtually swore in two new Board members: Marie Pearthree (Pima County) and Stephen Miller (Pinal County), as well as three returning Pima County Board Members: Karen Cesare, Pat Jacobs and Mark Taylor. Their six-year terms begin Jan. 1, 2021. This was the last CAWCD Board meeting for Sharon Megdal (Pima County) and Jim Hartdegan (Pinal County).

The Board took the following actions:

• Approved the 2022 Strategic Plan, which coincides with the two-year business planning cycle for the development of the 2022-23 Business Plans for CAP departments
• After the Public Policy Committee presentation,
• Approved the 2021 State Legislative Agenda
• Approved the 2021 Federal Legislative Agenda
• Following the Finance, Audit and Power Committee presentation,
  • Approved $12.3 million in funding for the 2021 calendar year insurance program.

The Board also heard staff updates regarding:

• CAGRD and Underground Storage Committee
• Arizona Water Banking Authority
• Colorado River Conditions
• Multi-Species Conservation Program
• Arizona Reconsultation Committee and Modeling Analysis Work Group

The CAWCD Board of Directors is a popularly elected, 15-member board. Ten members are from Maricopa County, four from Pima County and one from Pinal. Members serve six-year, unpaid terms. The board typically meets publicly the first Thursday of each month to establish policy and set rates and taxes for CAP.

For additional details on the December board meeting, take a look at the agenda and packet. Board minutes and video will be posted here.