Sentinel staff report–
Voters won’t see any names for the Citrus Heights Water District board of directors on their ballot this year, after no challengers filed to run for a seat on the board by the Aug. 7 deadline.
Director Caryl Sheehan will serve another four-year term on the three-member water district board of directors.
Sheehan’s election is referred to by voting officials as being “appointed in lieu of election.” While uncontested elections are uncommon for more high-profile seats, Citrus Heights Water District elections have a history of low interest from residents, who tend to only show interest when public hearings are held regarding water rate increases.
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In 2018, the only two individuals to run for two positions on the water district board both won by default, after no other candidates filed. The same occurred in 2016, when Sheehan was re-elected with no challengers.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue representing my neighbors on the Citrus Heights Water District Board,” Sheehan told The Sentinel in a statement Friday.
She said the district’s focus will continue to be on Project 2030, for water main replacement, as well as a study to help reduce costs of water meter replacement. She also said the board remains focused on working with San Juan Water District, which sets wholesale water rates affecting Citrus Heights.
Sheehan said she also looks forward to helping “find ways to involve our customers,” noting the district’s Customer Advisory Committee and an upcoming “Garden Corps,” which she said will be a volunteer group tasked with helping manage a new water efficient demonstration garden.
She said the district will also be launching a re-designed “easy-to-use” website in September, accessible at www.chwd.org.
