\u201cI think that we have a very large capital improvement program on the horizon,\u201d Baker said. \u201cMaking sure that we adhere to the schedule, make sure we understand the cost, make sure we\u2019re transparent to the community \u2026 is one of those key things.\u201d<\/p>\n
Baker\u2019s promotion follows the February resignation of former CEO Rick Callender<\/a>, who had helmed Valley Water since 2020. Callender left the agency after a more than yearlong misconduct investigation<\/a> found he sexually harassed employees<\/a> and violated agency policy. The board approved a separation agreement allowing him to remain a paid special adviser for a year, which prompted outcry from Valley Water employees<\/a> who called for board members to resign over the decision.<\/p>\n Board Chair Tony Estremera said Baker\u2019s more than two decades of experience at Valley Water made him a strong candidate.<\/p>\n \u201cHe has a long-term record of achievement and experience,\u201d Estremera told San Jos\u00e9 Spotlight.<\/p>\n Estremera said the transition period where Baker will work in tandem with Richardson\u00a0is intended to provide stability, as Baker\u2019s promotion will create vacancies within the agency that will need to be filled.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re gonna promote a chief of the most important unit, in our largest unit, in our district,\u201d Estremera said. \u201cThat creates a cascading effect. Somebody\u2019s got to replace that person, somebody\u2019s got to replace that person and so on.\u201d<\/p>\n
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