The Carpinteria Valley Water District (CVWD) Board of Directors has appointment Kelley Dyer as the district’s next general manager. She took over the role on Jan. 19 and will be formally recognized at her first CVWD Board meeting, Jan 28.

Dyer succeeds Bob McDonald, who will retire at the end of March after 26 years of service with the district.

“During his tenure, McDonald guided CVWD through significant infrastructure investment, long-term water supply planning, and organizational stability, leaving the district well positioned for the future,” CVWD said.

Dyer joins CVWD from Casitas Municipal Water District, where she served for several years as assistant general manager, gaining a strong reputation throughout the region for her leadership, technical expertise, and collaborative approach to water management, CVWD said.

Her experience aligns closely with CVWD’s ongoing priorities of ensuring a sufficient, reliable, and affordable water supply, while maintaining and modernizing the infrastructure necessary to convey water safely and efficiently to the community, the district said.

“The board is extremely pleased to welcome Kelley Dyer as CVWD’s next general manager,” said Case Van Wingerden, president of the CVWD Board of Directors. “Kelley is very well respected throughout the water industry, and we are familiar with her outstanding reputation from her work at Casitas.

“She brings the experience, judgment, and leadership style that we believe will serve our community exceptionally well.”

Regarding McDonald’s legacy and the importance of a smooth leadership transition, Van Wingerden said. “Bob McDonald’s 26-year career with CVWD represents an extraordinary commitment to public service. His expertise, thoughtful decision-making, and steady leadership helped set the course for the next generation of leadership at the district.

“On behalf of the board and the community, we thank Bob for his dedication and lasting contributions.”

“I am honored to be selected as general manager of the Carpinteria Valley Water District,” Dyer said.

“CVWD has a strong foundation and a clear commitment to serving its community, and I look forward to working with the board and staff to continue providing reliable, affordable water service, while responsibly managing water resources and infrastructure that support our community,” Dyer said.

The executive recruitment was conducted by The Widroe Group, which specializes in public-agency talent acquisition for cities, counties, and special districts.