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Inglewood Councilmember is ‘Likely’ Holding Incompatible Offices, Water Board’s Attorney Says

An attorney for the West Basin Municipal Water District has determined board member Gloria Gray is likely holding two incompatible offices, in violation of state law, because the water district sells to the Inglewood, where she is now a City Council member.

Elected officials do not need an actual conflict of interest for the two roles to be deemed incompatible, only the “possibility of a clash of duties,” said attorney Joe Byrne, the district’s general counsel, during the water board meeting on Monday, April 24.

Water Board Looks to Raise Fees Again

The State Water Resources Control Board has given an early forecast of fee increases for the next fiscal year based on current state budget projections.

While spending is expected to change little, staff are hoping to reach a 5% fund reserve for water quality programs, which could translate to a 5% increase in Irrigated Lands fees and more in other programs. Water board fees have already risen about 130% over the past decade for some programs.

IID Board Members Assigned to Various Regional Boards Despite Tensions

During Imperial Irrigation District Board meeting director comments, Norma Galindo commented from her remote distancing location, and started off memorializing recently passed, former IID General Manager, Kevin Kelley, then segued into a discourse about prayer.

“We talk about prayer, I don’t believe many do, or if they do, they pray for the wrong thing. I am troubled by the hypocrisy in our leadership when we talk about praying. We aren’t willing to talk with each other to resolve issues. It is a time to reflect, let bygones be bygones. I would hope Director Hamby would have the gumption to meet with me face to face to address issues. I know we can work together, and Director Hanks.”

California Supreme Court Says No Go to Referendum Challenges to Certain State Laws

Once a local water board approves a rate increase, voters cannot prevent it from taking effect by circulating a referendum, though they can seek to reduce it later, the state Supreme Court ruled Monday.