West Valley Water District (WVWD) secured $1M+ in community project funding through @aguilar.house.gov to strengthen critical water infrastructure. The investment will modernize the District’s SCADA system, improving emergency response and reliability for WVWD’s 100,000+ customers. Congratulations!
Great turnout at the Special Districts Association of Riverside County luncheon last week. Board members, staff, and community leaders had a thoughtful discussion on SB 707, the Brown Act, and maintaining open government while adapting to evolving requirements.
We appreciate everyone’s insights!
Congratulations to @southcoastwater.bsky.social! The agency has received the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies’ 2025 Gold Award for Exceptional Utility Performance — a national honor!
Learn more: www.picketfencemedia.com/sanclementet...
#DistrictsMakeTheDifference #CA
CSDA’s Kyle Packham had the privilege of presenting to a packed ballroom of special district, city, and other municipal finance officers last week with Ben Triffo of @calcities.bsky.social and leading local government funding expert, Michael Coleman.
Thanks to all the districts that participated!
✔️ Tri-City Medical Center
✔️ Vista Fire Protection District
✔️ Santa Fe Irrigation District
✔️ Olivenhain Municipal Water District
✔️ Fallbrook Public Utility District
✔️ Resource Conservation District of Greater San Diego County
Why it matters: Ensures our 40,000+ districts are recognized as local governments, giving them a seat at the table for federal funding. It also helps secure the resources needed to keep infrastructure strong and services running — with decisions in the hands of agencies that know our community best.
Great meeting today with the Office of @levin.house.gov and local special districts to discuss H.R. 2766, the Special District Fairness and Accessibility Act!
This bipartisan bill, led by Rep. Pat Fallon and @pettersen.house.gov, would finally establish a federal definition for special districts.
Productive conversations like these are essential for building a safer, healthier, and more resilient future.
Thank you to Assembly Member Davies’ team for listening to our local service specialists and supporting the services that keep our neighborhoods thriving!
#DistrictsAdvocate
Leaders from Vista Fire Protection District, North County Fire Protection District, Vista Irrigation District and Fallbrook Regional Health District met with the Office of Assemblywoman Laurie Davies to discuss the critical issues facing North County San Diego.
This year’s priorities include revenue for infrastructure, public works planning, permitting and contracting, emergency preparedness and response, and more.
Learn more here: legislativedays.csda.net
This April 7–8 in Sacramento, local leaders from special districts across #CA will gather for Special District Legislative Days to meet with policymakers and Capitol staff and advocate for the communities they serve.
It's exciting to see leaders exploring how AI can improve efficiency and service while staying grounded in strong governance.
Appreciate everyone who shared ideas and real-world experiences. The future of innovation in public service is here.
Great discussion at the San Diego County Special Districts event!
The focus was AI Best Practices – responsible implementation, data security, transparency, and practical applications for local agencies.
Outside of work, Emily is a licensed pilot, car enthusiast, and serves on her county’s airport advisory committee — advocating for more women in aviation.
Thank you, Emily, for your leadership in policy and innovation for #CASpecialDistricts!
Learn more: www.csda.net/about-csda/f...
Meet Emily Barnett!
Emily has over a decade of experience as Comms & Government Relations Manager at Central Contra Costa Sanitary District, with past experience in PG&E and the California State Senate. Her expertise spans household hazardous waste, water reuse and recycling, PFAS, and more.
Thank you to the following districts for participating:
✔️ Tracy Rural Fire Protection District
✔️ South San Joaquin Irrigation District
✔️ Oakdale Irrigation District
✔️ San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector Control District
✔️Stockton Port District
Thank you to Representative Josh Harder for meeting with local special districts in San Joaquin County yesterday!
#DistrictsAdvocate
Thank you to the following districts for participating:
✔️ Tracy Rural Fire Protection District
✔️ South San Joaquin Irrigation District
✔️ Oakdale Irrigation District
✔️ San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector Control District
✔️Stockton Port District
The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California and officials from LA and Ventura counties marked the start of a $280 million pump station project to strengthen drought resilience and deliver up to 22,000 acre-feet annually to communities.
Read more:
smartwatermagazine.com/news/metropo...
Strong fire protection requires well equipped fire personnel and depends on strategically located stations. The Chino Valley Independent Fire District shows how we can keep communities safe as they expand.
The Desert Recreation District recently hosted a Veterans Open House and Community Town Hall to hear from veterans and their families. This feedback will help shape future programs and services. Special thanks to Asm. Jeff Gonzalez and the office of @repraulruizmd.bsky.social for your support.
Thank you for participating!
✔️ Coachella Valley Water District
✔️ Desert Healthcare District
✔️ Desert Water Agency
✔️ Mission Springs Water District
✔️ Desert Recreation District
✔️ Valley Sanitary District
✔️ Palm Springs Cemetery District
✔️ Coachella Valley Resource Conservation District
Special districts from across the #CoachellaValley had a great meeting with Assemblymember Greg Wallis! We appreciate the open dialogue, collaboration, and shared commitment to supporting our communities. Conversations like these help move priorities forward.
Thank you to the following districts for participating:
✔️ Coachella Valley Water District
✔️ Desert Recreation District
✔️ Valley Sanitary District
✔️ Coachella Valley Resource Conservation District
#DistrictsAdvocate
Thank you to the Office of Senator Steve Padilla for meeting with special districts across the Coachella Valley for a productive discussion. These conversations are an important opportunity to work together to support the communities we serve. We’re grateful for the time and thoughtful dialogue.
We appreciated meeting with the Office of Congressman Ken Calvert and fellow special districts to discuss priorities for the 2026 legislative cycle. These conversations help ensure the voices of special districts are heard as we continue working collaboratively to serve our communities.
State Controller Malia M. Cohen and @asmvalencia.bsky.social have announced HR 79 to recognize February 2026 as Unclaimed Property Month. CSDA appreciates this effort to raise awareness and help reconnect Californians with unclaimed money and property.
CSDA represents 1,300+ special districts across California. Our members deliver essential services, including water, fire protection, parks and recreation, healthcare, utilities, and more. These services support the safety, well-being, and vitality of communities statewide. #TrustAssociations
We also appreciate the participation of the following special districts:
✔️ Cucamonga Valley Water District
✔️ Inland Empire Utilities Agency
✔️ West Valley Water District
✔️ San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation District
Thank you to the office of @asmrobertgarcia.bsky.social (AD-50) for meeting with special districts to discuss CSDA’s 2026 legislative priorities.
