San Marcos, CA – Last night, the Vallecitos Water District (Vallecitos) was honored for achieving re-accreditation as a “District of Distinction” by the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF). This accreditation is designed as a way for districts to highlight their sensible fiscal practices along with other areas important to effectively operate and govern a special district. California SDLF Senior Public Affairs Field Coordinator, Chris Palmer, was on hand to recognize Vallecitos for completing the essential governance requirements. This is the fourth time Vallecitos has received this biannual accreditation.
“SDLF provides an independent audit review of the last three years of the District’s operations to ensure prudent fiscal practices,” said Neil McCormick, SDLF Chief Executive Officer. The committee members who review the audits are volunteers from the special district community, including district controllers, directors of finance and general managers. 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.
To receive the recognition, Vallecitos’ website must include posting of transparency requirements, including: election procedures and deadlines, posted board meeting schedules and agendas, current District budget, most recent financial audit, and a list of compensation of Board members and staff or a link to the State Controller’s webpage with the data. Vallecitos’ Board of Directors and executive staff must also show proof of educational training in public governance, as well as compliance with ethics and harassment prevention training.
“This award demonstrates the District’s dedication to effective governance,” said Vallecitos Board President Dr. Tiffany Boyd-Hodgson. “The Board of Directors and District staff deserve recognition for their hard work in emphasizing our responsible fiscal management and strong policies in governance, board conduct, and transparency.”
About Vallecitos Water District: As an independent, special district, Vallecitos is dedicated to providing water, wastewater, and reclamation services to over 105,000 people in a 45-square-mile area that includes San Marcos; the community of Lake San Marcos; portions of Carlsbad, Escondido, and Vista; and other surrounding unincorporated areas
