MSWD Feted for Excellence in Transparency

MSWD Awarded District of Distinction and Certificate of Excellence in Transparency

INDIAN WELLS — Transparency is at the very core of democracy and healthy government. To that end, Mission Springs Water District received the District of Distinction and District Transparency Certificate of Excellence from the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF) in recognition of its outstanding efforts to promote transparency and good governance.

The certificate was awarded at the California Special District Association Annual Conference today, Sept. 12.

“This award is a testament to our organization’s ongoing commitment to open government,” Board President Ivan Sewell. said in a statement. “I would like to recognize our team for their unwavering commitment to providing the public with valuable information and fostering meaningful engagement and oversight.”

To receive the award, MSWD demonstrated the completion of essential governance transparency requirements, including conducting ethics training for all board members, properly conducting open and public meetings, and filing financial transactions and compensation reports to the State Controller in a timely manner.

These awards showcase the District’s commitment to various governance areas, including prudent fiscal practices. In an era where proper financial management is paramount, this accreditation helps districts demonstrate their commitment to sound policies and practices.

In addition to the District Distinction and Transparency honors, several members of the MSWD team were awarded individual Special District Governance certificates, designed to honor special district board members and staff who demonstrate a commitment to continuing education and special district governance. MSWD awardees included Board President Ivan Sewell, Board Member Russ Martin, General Manager Brian Macy, Finance Director Arturo Ceja, and Assistant General Manager Marion Champion. Board Vice President Griffith and Board Member Amber Duff received these honors in 2023.

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.

Special districts are independent public agencies that deliver core local services to communities, such as Utility, wastewater treatment, fire protection, parks and recreation, healthcare, sanitation, mosquito abatement, ports, libraries, public cemeteries, and more. Districts are established by voters, and their funding is approved by voters to meet specific needs through focused service. They can be specially molded to serve large regions or small neighborhoods depending on the need.

 

Photo caption above: Left to right: SDLF CEO Neil McCormick, MSWD General Manager Brian Macy, MSWD Board Director Russ Martin, MSWD Board Director Amber Duff, MSWD Board Vice-President Robert Griffith, MSWD Board President Ivan Sewell, and SDLF Board President Sandy A. Seifert Raffelson