Mesa Water Recognized for Excellence in Governance and Transparency by the Special District Leadership Foundation

COSTA MESA, Calif.; July 24, 2020 – Mesa Water District (Mesa Water®) was recently reaccredited as a “District of Distinction” by the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF) for its sound fiscal management policies and practices in district operations. This is the seventh time Mesa Water receives the biannual accreditation – one of the most prestigious awards in local government in the state.

“This is a testament to the staff, management team, and Board members’ ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability, which guides our organization,” says Mesa Water Board President Shawn Dewane. “The entire staff is to be commended for these contributions that empower the public with information and facilitate engagement and oversight.”

A rigorous audit was performed of Mesa Water’s finances, operations, and transparency over the past three years. Requirements for receiving the award include, but are not limited to: regular financial audits with no major deficiencies; policies and procedures that conform to all state law statutes and regulations; proof of training in the areas of ethics, governance, and harassment prevention.

Additionally, Mesa Water received the SDLF’s District Transparency Certificate of Excellence in recognition of its outstanding efforts to promote transparency and good governance.

This is the fourth time Mesa Water receives this award, where a special district must demonstrate the completion of essential governance transparency requirements, including but not limited to: properly conducting open and public meetings; filing financial transactions and compensation reports to the State Controller in a timely manner; and, ensuring the District’s website includes election procedure and deadlines; a current District budget; a list of compensation of board members and staff; and outreach efforts.

Mesa Water’s strategic plan includes being financially responsible and transparent, and providing outstanding customer service among its key goals.

SDLF is an independent, non-profit organization formed to promote good governance and best practices among California’s special districts through certification, accreditation and other recognition programs.