This community opinion was contributed by Shawn Novack, water conservation program manager with the Water Resources Association San Benito County, San Benito County Water District. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent BenitoLink or other affiliated contributors. BenitoLink invites all community members to share their ideas and opinions. By registering as a BenitoLink user in the top right corner of our home page and agreeing to follow our Terms of Use, you can write counter opinions or share your insights on current issues. Lea este articulo en español aquí.
The San Benito County Water District (SBCWD) shapes some of the most important decisions for our community’s water supply. We, the citizens, place our trust in the hands of the elected board members who guide the district with the assumption they are prioritizing the greater good over personal interests.
Recent decisions by the Board of Directors to reinstate Jeff Cattaneo, retired District Manager, after the March 27 termination without cause of General Manager, Steve Wittry, call to question the integrity of the board.
District staff were unanimously against termination. Mr. Wittry brought in millions of additional dollars to the district through successful grant efforts while fostering an atmosphere of productivity, positivity, support and respect. All qualities have been absent for the years Mr. Cattaneo had been District Manager.
This decision is:
● Fiscally irresponsible: The district must pay the remainder of Mr. Wittry’s contract and contract the increased expense of the interim General Manager, Mr. Cattaneo.
● Short-sighted: Top executives are hard to secure, and having a predecessor terminated after such a short tenure with no cause creates risk for future hires.
● Causing harm: Staff members have resigned over this decision, and the office has taken a significant shift from being positive to an office with low energy and poor morale.
The 3-2 vote to terminate Mr. Wittry was dominated by representatives of the agricultural sector, with two nay votes from the board members representing the municipal and industrial sector. There are also questions about a Brown Act violation, with three board members meeting outside of the district meetings to align on the decision.
The citizens of San Benito County deserve a transparent and equitable decision-making process which prioritizes collective welfare over personal interests. Oversight and scrutiny of the SBCWD is desperately needed.
With water becoming more of a precious resource every year it is imperative that Leadership follows not only the law, but also act in a manner that is for the greater good of our community, not just the Good Old Boys Network.
In my twenty years employment with SBCWD, I have not witnessed such a bold affront of power. It is time for San Benito County to hold our elected officials accountable.