News

Today, OMWD’s Board of Directors was honored by Special District Leadership Foundation for reaccreditation as a “District of Distinction–Platinum Level,” SDLF’s highest accreditation. This designation recognizes OMWD’s commitment to responsible financial management, ethical leadership, and transparency in all areas of its operations.

Special districts are local governments that deliver specialized services such as water, fire protection, and sanitation. There are 2,000 independent special districts in California, and only 14 have achieved District of Distinction at the platinum level. OMWD was the first water district in San Diego County to achieve the District of Distinction accreditation in 2008.  

“We take great pride in the platinum designation for operational excellence and our transparency efforts,” said OMWD board president Matthew Hahn. “Transparency is how we build trust with the communities we serve. To have confidence in OMWD, our customers need to see how decisions are made and how their money is spent.”

OMWD also received SDLF’s District Transparency Certificate of Excellence in recognition of its efforts to promote transparency and encourage public participation. OMWD has achieved reaccreditation of this transparency honor since 2013.

Among the audit’s findings were that OMWD provides ethics training for all board members and staff; properly conducts open, public meetings; files timely financial and compensation reports with the State Controller; and maintains public access to key documents, including meeting agendas, minutes, budgets, and financial audits.

Additionally, SDLF requires that OMWD General Manager Kimberly Thorner hold SDLF’s Certified Special District Manager designation. She has held the certification since 2008. It requires passing an exam on 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 focused on the ethical and efficient management of public resources.

SDLF is an independent, non-profit organization. It promotes good governance and best practices among California’s special districts through training, certification, and other recognition programs.

OMWD board and management accept the District of Distinction–Platinum Level award from Special District Leadership Foundation’s Chris Palmer (fourth from right).