Water Supply
I support a multi-pronged approach to ensure a reliable water supply:
A robust portfolio approach provides the highest level of reliability while not putting all of our eggs in one basket. Conservation, recycling, groundwater management, local watershed management, water banking, and protecting our foundational imported supplies conveyed through the Delta and delivered by the State Water Project and the federal Central Valley Project are the key components.
Drinking Water Quality
I support investment in our water supply infrastructure:
Upgrades to all of our treatment plants, with two complete and the third is on track to be refurbished consistent with LEED Sustainability construction standards. In addition, a soon to go on-line state-of-the-art water quality laboratory will ensure the District continues to provide the safest and highest quality water to Santa Clara County.
Conservation
I support programs that promote water conservation and a reliable water supply:
In 2007 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized the District as the sole recipient of its government agency Water Efficiency Leader award for the nation. The District carries out over 20 award winning conservation programs for residential, commercial, and landscape customers. In 2006-07 conservation savings were 57,000 acre-feet of water, and for the 15 year period 1992-2007 savings have been approximately 427,000 acre-feet (one acre foot serves approximately 2 families of 5 for a year).
Recycling
I support an aggressive approach to water recycling:
I supported the District policy setting a target of 5% of water use in the County to be recycled water by 2010 and 10% by 2020. This represents one of the most aggressive efforts in California. Today, the level of use is approximately 4%. I also support an advanced treatment pilot project to investigate what would be necessary to allow usage of even more recycled water. Additionally, I support our partnership with the City of San Jose through South Bay Recycling to incentivize the continued and increased use of recycled water.
Environmental Stewardship
I support the protection of our watersheds, and our urban environment:
I supported the successful amendment of the District Act to include watershed stewardship as part of the District Mission. We provided significant financial support, through grants, to local organizations to help them carry out environmental projects consistent with the District's mission, from construction runoff monitoring to habitat restoration projects. The District is a recognized environmental leader in the water and flood management industry.
We are a certified Green Business, and ISO 14001/19000 certified (district-wide). We are also a member of Sustainable Silicon Valley.
Climate Change
I support our efforts to reduce the district's carbon footprint:
The District was recognized as a Breathe California award recipient and was an early member of the California Climate Action Registry. In addition, I supported the District's endorsing AB 32, one of only a handful of water agencies in California to do so.
We constructed a solar project that received an award from the American Water Works Association. In addition, we are members of a power purchase cooperative that focuses on renewable energy sources. Consequently, in 2006, 97% of all energy purchased by the District came from renewable sources.
I supported the Board's recent establishment of a target to have the District become "carbon neutral" as soon as practicable. The implications of climate change for our water supply and flood management activities are enormous, and we should not exacerbate the problem.
Good Neighbor
I support a "good neighbor" policy that promotes communication and goodwill:
While there are many, one exemplary "good neighbor" project I supported was the District purchase of some property to install emergency groundwater wells which would also allow us to partner with and sell some of the property (at no profit) to Catholic Charities in the City of Campbell to provide for badly needed below cost housing. This is an example of different governmental agencies working together with the non-profit community to benefit our region.
City of San Jose
I support a collaborative relationship with the communities and cities in our Valley:
We continue to meet on a semi-annual basis with the Mayor and City Council to discuss issues of mutual interest and concern. This has lead to improved relations and better partnerships on trails, graffiti abatement, and general activities related to public health and safety.
Flood Management
I support flood management projects that enhance and improve our environment:
I have championed the nationally recognized Downtown Guadalupe project, helped expedite the beautiful bridge over the river at Willow Glen Way, and continue to push for a new project on Coyote Creek. I am proud of the outdoor classroom we have provided for our award winning educational programs adjacent to Coyote Creek in the Willams Street area.