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OMWD Achieves Top Honors for Transparency and Fiscal Responsibility
The Special District Leadership Foundation honored Olivenhain Municipal Water District today at California Special Districts Association’s annual conference in Palm Desert as a “District of Distinction–Platinum Level,” its highest accreditation. This designation recognizes OMWD’s commitment to sound fiscal management, ethical administration, and transparency in all areas of its operations.
“OMWD’s board is committed to serving our customers in a cost-effective, service-oriented manner while remaining open and accessible to the public,” said OMWD Board Director Neal Meyers. “Reaccreditation at the platinum level reaffirms that commitment.”
Special districts are local governments that deliver specialized services such as water, fire protection, and sanitation. OMWD was the first water district in San Diego County to achieve the District of Distinction accreditation in 2008 and remains one of only 37 such agencies statewide. A total of 10 California special districts have achieved the level of platinum.
To earn the District of Distinction–Platinum Level accreditation, SDLF conducted an independent audit review of the last three years of OMWD’s operations to ensure fiscally responsible practices. OMWD also completed requirements for and received SDLF’s District Transparency Certificate of Excellence, which verifies a high level of open engagement with the public.
Additionally, OMWD General Manager Kimberly Thorner was required to earn SDLF’s Certified Special District Manager designation, which she has held since 2008. This certification requires passing an exam showing knowledge of policy development, ethics in public service, strategic planning, and financial management. Further, each of OMWD’s five board members was required to earn a Certificate in Special District Governance by completing continuing education specializing in local governance.
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.
