CASA Connects Newsletter for March 14, 2016

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  • by BPC Staff
  • on March 15, 2016
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March 14, 2016

One Day, One Water. Join us April 6 for the Public Policy Forum.

Assembly Member Rich Gordon to speak at Public Policy Forum
Registration is happening now for CASA and WateReuse’s joint 2016 Public Policy Forum. Based on member feedback, and in an effort to maximize your valuable time, we’ve changed the format to a one-day schedule this year. First we’ll prepare you on the issues, then you’ll meet with your legislators.
Assembly Member Rich Gordon, Chair of the Assembly Rules Committee, will kickoff the event. Assembly Member Gordon also chairs the subcommittee on Water Consumption and Alternative Sources, which examines barriers to developing alternative water sources. Senator Bob Wieckowski, Chair of the Senate Environmental Quality Committee, has also been invited to speak. Please make your plans now to join us for this important event. Learn more…

Announcing an Opportunity to Engage on Collection System Issues

We’ve recently identified a need for an increased focus on issues specific to collection systems, and we’re looking for volunteers to help advance the mission.
CASA is forming a Collection System Workgroup under the umbrella of the Utility Leadership Committee. The workgroup is open to everyone interested in participating, and will meet outside of the regular conferences, primarily by conference call.  Learn more…

Court Publishes Favorable Opinion in “Force Account” Case

As the result of CASA efforts, California’s First Appellate District recently published a favorable opinion in a case involving one of CASA’s members. The case, Construction Industry Force Account Council v. Ross Valley Sanitary District, could serve as a precedent for sanitary districts throughout the state.
Publication of this opinion potentially benefits all sanitary districts in California by providing more flexibility in the manner by which they are able to proceed with improvements. Read more…

How Do You Like Our New Website?

On January 22 we launched our redesigned website. Many of you have taken the time to give us feedback us on the new design. Thank you! Now we’re making it easy to give us specific feedback. Please take this 3-minute survey now. Your input will help us ensure the best possible website experience for you.

Did You Know You Can Comment On Our News Articles?

Now you can comment on CASA’s news stories
Now there’s another way for you to interact with CASA and your peers. At the bottom of every news article we publish there’s an opportunity for you to provide comments. Maybe you’d like to reiterate the importance of an advocacy issue, comment on a recent conference, or congratulate an agency on an accomplishment that we’ve highlighted… whatever the case, leaving a comment is easy.
And you can even share our articles through your social media accounts! Comment, share and engage today!

Surplus Equipment Donations Needed in Mexico

Mexico needs our help
California recently heard from Baja California, Mexico, that key sewage infrastructure in Mexicali is in immediate need of repair and replacement. The State Water Board is asking local agencies to consider donating surplus operation and maintenance equipment to Baja California to aid in binational efforts to improve water quality.  See how previously donated equipment from the Leucadia Wastewater District aided Mexicalli during storm flooding, along with a list of supplies that Baja California needs. Read more…

Recognizing Your Accomplishments

Award Icon

CASA is now accepting applications for our 2016 Award of Excellenceprogram. See what’s new this year, and get your application in soon!
The deadline to apply is April 15, but we encourage you to get a jump on it so you aren’t faced with last-minute deadline pressure.

Tools Available for Communicating the Scholarship Program

The CASA Education Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2016 scholarship program. A flier and news release template are available to help you promote the program.
The deadline for students to apply is April 29.

Mixed Bag

A Value of Water Coalition poll finds 95% of Americans want public officials to invest in water systems; 60% are willing to pay more for secure water service. Read more…
Elizabeth Allan, Executive Director at California Water Environment Association, was so impressed with CASA’s speaker, Dr. Ken Rubin, at our January conference, she had her communications manager interview him on how utility of the future will impact water professionals.
Don’t forget – Water Week 2016 is April 10-16! Use your social media sites and other methods to convey your important messages.
Water and wastewater operators can now access thousands of tools and resources tailored to small community needs at WaterOperator.org. Originally launched in 2010 under the name SmallWaterSupply.org, the mobile-friendly web portal includes technical documents, links to training opportunities, information on tribal assistance providers and certification program resources.

Agency News

Kevin Hardy
Kevin Hardy, former General Manager for Encina Wastewater Authority (EWA) and current President of the CASA Board of Directors, has left EWA to pursue an endeavor in the private sector. Kevin, who has demonstrated exceptional leadership during his time on the Board, remains fully dedicated to CASA’s mission and will remain president until his term expires in August, 2017.
Michael Steinlicht
The Encina Wastewater Authority (EWA) Board of Directors has announced plans to promote Assistant General Manager Michael Steinlicht to the position of General Manager. Mike draws upon over 24 years of management and executive experience at EWA, pioneering strategies and processes to consistently improve techniques and work efforts. Read more…
Delta Diablo has received the 2016 East Bay Innovation Award, “Catalyst”, from the East Bay Economic Development Alliance.  This prestigious award was the result of months-long competition for the best use of innovation across eight industry sectors. Over 100 nominations for the eight categories were submitted. Read more…
The Las Virgenes – Triunfo Joint Powers Authority announced a decision to appeal a recent court decision regarding the Malibu Creek Watershed. Read more…

Events

Date
Organization
Event
Location
March 13-15, 2016
WateReuse
Santa Rosa
April 3, 2016
WEF
Milwaukee
April 6, 2016
CASA & WateReuse
Sacramento
Aug. 10-12, 2016
CASA
Monterey
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