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Water District to Choose new Director

Five Candidates applied

by Jay O'Brien

The Rio Linda/Elverta Community Water District (RLECWD) Board of Directors announced that they intend to choose a new Director to fill their ranks at their next meeting, scheduled for February 27, 2006. As a result of the resignation of a Director after serving one year of his four-year term, the remaining four Directors will take action to fill the position.

The appointed new Director will serve until December 1, 2006, and could run for election in November 2006 to serve two additional years.

Five candidates have applied to be appointed. The applicants are Zack Arbios, Robert Blanchard, Melvin Griffin, Fred Jones and Michelle Phulps. Some of their qualifications, as stated in their applications, follow.

Arbios, a resident of Elverta, graduated from UC Davis. He closed his business five years ago to work for the State as a planner for the California Highway Patrol. He holds a Contractors' License and has experience in property management, construction and contracting. He served as a member of the Rio Linda/Elverta Community Planning Advisory Council (CPAC).

Blanchard, a past member of the RLECWD Board, was not re-elected in 2004. He claims wide support in the community and feels that he would be the logical choice to replace the outgoing Board member, as he missed re-election by very few votes. Blanchard resides in Elverta.

Griffin, also a past member of the RLECWD Board not re-elected in 2004, has served as Chairman or President of numerous committees and efforts, including many community-based organizations including the Lions Club. A 66-year resident of Rio Linda, he attended local schools, graduating from American River College. As a consultant, he has extensive experience in dealing with Cities, Special Districts and risk managers.

Jones, who retired from Pacific Telephone after 27 years, is the Area Manager for Western Corrections, Inc. He has lived in Rio Linda for over 25 years. He says that he believes in local government control and community involvement, where the local people choose their direction. He has served as an advisor for the Rio Linda Elementary School District.

Phulps, an employee of the County of Sacramento, works with salaries and benefits while working to develop and retain employees. She has accounting/billing experience. Phulps is concerned about water pressure in the summer, and wants to ensure a reliable and safe water supply for her children's future. Phulps resides in Elverta.

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