Paul Ortega Announces Campaign for Desert Water Agency in Division 4
PALM SPRINGS — Paul D. Ortega has officially announced his General Election campaign for Desert Water Agency, Division 4. He was first appointed to this position by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors in December 2020, after having drawn no competitors in that year’s general election.
On Monday, he announced his campaign to be elected to the seat he has held for nearly four years.
As the director serving the residents of Division 4, comprised of much of the City of Palm Springs, and as its current Board President, there are many issues of great importance to ensure the continued success of Desert Water Agency and the public that it serves. Safety, reliability and affordability along with long-term sustainability are at the top of the list.
“In my nearly four years on the board, I understand that it takes experience, thoughtful leadership, integrity and trust to make this all happen. It is a responsibility that I do not take lightly and which I am honored to be able to do for the people of my division and the Desert Water Agency,” Ortega said in a statement.
Since 2002, Ortega has lived and worked in Palm Springs, embracing the desert environment with a deep commitment to water conservation. His relationship with the Agency began in 2005 when he co-founded the Desert Horticultural Society and served as its board president for eight years. During that time, he worked with the Agency in support of programs to reduce water use in landscapes and provided insight and advice on conservation programs within its service area.
Ortega received his Bachelor of Arts from Stanford University and his Master of Arts from Johns Hopkins University. Upon his move to the desert, he took classes at College of the Desert and UC Riverside Palm Desert as he pursued new career opportunities. He is also a graduate of the initial class of the Water Counts Academy, an education program supported by the six water agencies of the Coachella Valley.
A dedicated community volunteer, Ortega has also served as a member and chair of the City of Palm Springs Architectural Advisory Committee, as a member of the Living Desert University Board and of Modernism Week’s Events Committee. He is currently on the board of directors of the Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter.
“As a longtime resident and advocate for water conservation and the protection of our local aquifers, and with my experience as an active board member, I have demonstrated the leadership that will see the Desert Water Agency through the challenges that are ahead in ensuring a sustainable source of safe and affordable drinking water,” Ortega said. “With the support of the voters of Division 4, I look forward to continuing this work.”
To learn more about Paul’s campaign, please visit PaulOrtega4DWA.com
Image Sources
- 2024-Paul-Ortega-800×568: DWA