Media Corner

For Immediate Release
January 05, 2007

Board Vacancy Filled In Central Basin MWD

Carson, CA - Rudy Montalvo, a resident of the City of South Gate, was unanimously appointed on Wednesday, January 3, 2007, to represent Division IV on the Central Basin Municipal Water District Board of Directors. The Division IV seat, which serves the cities of Lynwood, South Gate, Florence-Graham, Willowbrook and portions of Cudahy, Compton and Carson, was left vacant following the resignation of Director Olga Gonzalez.

A longtime civic leader, Director Montalvo began his career serving Southeast Los Angeles County as a labor representative and then as a state legislative field representative, where he specialized in voter rights issues, public education and social services.

"When Olga announced her resignation, we knew we had to find someone of equal caliber and passion, with the skills and experience necessary to represent the interests of the region," said Board President Robert Apodaca. "Rudy Montalvo was the ideal candidate; a man of strong conviction who is deeply rooted in the Central Basin community."

Director Montalvo, who was sworn in during Wednesday's special Board meeting, currently sits on the Planning Commission for the City of South Gate. Additionally, he serves as the President of the South Gate Democratic Club and is one of the co-founders of the Southeast Cities Democratic Club.

"In the past year, Central Basin has made great strides in providing innovative solutions to the region's most complex water resource issues," said Director Montalvo. "I am enthusiastic and honored to serve on the Board, and look forward to supporting the District's efforts in building strong relationships with local communities, as well as key labor and civic groups."

The term of office for the new Director will expire in January 2009. Election for the next full term for the Division IV seat will be held in November 2008. The appointed Director is eligible to run for the full term at that election.