Executive Director's Dispatch

Teamwork is CMUA's key to success (July 2026)
"Great moments are born from great opportunity." That's what Herb Brooks, coach of the 1980 U.S. men's hockey team, told his players before that legendary game. I was reminded of his words at the APPA conference earlier this month in Boston, where Mike Eruzione, the team's captain, shared lessons about that extraordinary team — not as a miracle, but as a masterclass in teamwork, grit, and moving forward together. It got me thinking about what we do here at CMUA.

The next frontier is here—and our members are ready (June 2026)
That's what I took away from CMUA's inaugural data center and AI workshop, held earlier this month. The energy in the room was palpable as utility leaders gathered to tackle one of the most pressing topics facing California's energy and water systems today.

We're stronger together (May 2026)
That's what I've been thinking about a lot this month after attending the California Community Choice Association (CalCCA) Conference and the Northwest Public Power Association (NWPPA) Conference. Both were firsts for me, and the experience reinforced just how much we accomplish when we work collaboratively with other organizations.

The cost of inaction is high (April 2026)
That's one of the key takeaways from the state's recently released report on wildfire liability and insurance requirements—and it's a finding that reinforces what many CMUA members already know from experience.

CMUA is adding more in-person events in 2026 (March 2026)
"Let's gather and learn together." That's been on my mind a lot lately as we plan more opportunities throughout the year for our members to connect, share knowledge, and tackle the issues that matter most to you.

Starting the year with something good (January 2026)
"It's live!" After months of planning and preparation, I'm thrilled to announce that our "Public Power. Public Water. Public Good." campaign officially launched on January 12th, and the response has been fantastic.

Reflecting on a year to remember (December 2025)
"What a year it's been." As I wrap up my first year as CMUA's Executive Director, I find myself reflecting on everything we've accomplished together — and looking ahead to some exciting initiatives in 2026.

Giving thanks to our CMUA community (November 2025)
"Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others." As we approach Thanksgiving, I find myself reflecting on just how much we have to be thankful for in the CMUA community — and it starts with each of you.

Looking back at our successful CMUA Member Appreciation Month (September 2025)
"What a month!" As September comes to a close, I'm reflecting on our very first Member Appreciation Month, and I have to say — you all showed up in a big way. We launched this initiative to celebrate the fact that CMUA Members Rock, and the response has been nothing short of phenomenal.

Introducing our CMUA Member Appreciation Month! (August 2025)
"You rock!" It's a simple phrase, but sometimes the most straightforward expressions carry the deepest truth. That's exactly how we feel about our CMUA members, which is why we're launching something brand new this September — our very first Member Appreciation Month.

Workforce grant is paying dividends (July 2025)
"Will this actually make a difference?" That's the question we asked ourselves multiple times when CMUA took on the responsibility for a $4 million workforce grant, our first effort of this nature. Your consistent feedback about workforce challenges rang in our ears: the silver tsunami, private sector competition, positions open for months or years, and the need for a workforce as diverse as the communities you serve.

APPA and AI, oh my! (June 2025)
I recently attended the American Public Power Association’s national conference in New Orleans. As you can imagine, there was good fellowship, good food and good fun. Between the incredible opening reception at the Superdome to the closing keynote with NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, there was a lot to learn about a variety of topics.

Why our in-person visits to CMUA members are vital (May 2025)
"It's been quite a journey." That's my takeaway as I continue progressing toward my goal to visit 25 CMUA member utilities this year. These visits are providing invaluable insights into the diverse challenges and innovative solutions across our membership.