PRESS RELEASE

San Andreas, CA - At its Special Board Meeting on May 30, 2025, the Calaveras County Water District (CCWD) appointed John “Jack” Garamendi to the Board of Directors, representing Division 2.Garamendi fills the vacancy left by the resignation of Board Member Cindy Secada.

“We commend Director Secada for her service on the CCWD Board and for being such a strong advocate for Division 2 and all of the customers of CCWD,” said CCWD Board President Jeff Davidson.

The CCWD Board interviewed four applicants and expressed appreciation for each of them. After careful deliberation, the Board voted unanimously to appoint Mr. Garamendi to serve the remainder of the current term, through December 2026.

“Four exceptional candidates applied, each with unique strengths and a clear passion for service,” said Davidson. He also expressed his deep appreciation for the experience and leadership he observed while serving with Garamendi on the Upper Mokelumne River Watershed Authority (UMRWA) Board.

A fifth-generation Calaveras County resident, Jack served on the County Board of Supervisors for eight years, including two terms as Chair. A rancher, entrepreneur, and former UC Merced Vice Chancellor, he has led key regional and statewide initiatives in agriculture, energy, and broadband.

A former Army Reserve Officer and Peace Corps Volunteer, Jack holds degrees from UC Berkeley and CSU Hayward. He lives with his wife, Colleen, on their family ranch in Paloma.

“I am honored to be appointed to the Board of the Calaveras County Water District for Division 2. I look forward to joining the CCWD team to provide services to our customers and the citizens of the County. I am excited to work with their amazing staff and dedicated Board of Directors to contribute to their continued success,” said Garamendi.

CCWD is an independent California Special District established to provide essential public services, including water supply and wastewater management, to communities throughout Calaveras County. The District is governed by a five-member Board of Directors, elected by qualified voters within the District to serve staggered four-year terms.

To learn more about Director Garamendi, visit his official bio: John "Jack" Garamendi - Calaveras County Water District