Meet the New Water Boss

If it has to do with water, Joone Lopez is your gal.

The new general manager of the took the reins June 25, and hit the ground running.

Before her new position, she served as the general manager at the Calaveras County Water District, which serves an 1,100-square-mile area and owns two hydropower facilities.  

But now that she is in Laguna Niguel, she has a vision moving forward.

"I plan to work with the board members, staff, neighboring agencies and community members to identify what our focus should be as we move forward. I’m also assessing the overall operations with staff and looking for ways to improve because we understand the importance of continuous improvement. And, I’m looking forward to meeting everyone so I plan to be out in our communities and introduce myself," she said.  

Of course, every job comes with its challenges, but Lopez said she is more than ready to meet them.

"Doing more with less is the challenge that most of us face in the water industry. With rising costs and increasing regulatory/legislative requirements, we have to find ways to stay financially sound to ensure the highest level of performance and service," she said.  

She added: "I’m responsible for the overall operations of the district so I interface with staff, board and members of the public to ensure quality service.  I don’t like just sitting in my office. I like to get out amongst the employees and see first-hand what we do. I can’t say enough how caring and professional my staff is, and when I hear positive feedback from our customers, that makes my day," she said.  

"I’m looking forward to meeting our customers and members of the community because we are here to serve them. I am a public servant at heart and take seriously the responsibilities we have as a public agency managing public funds," she said.   

At times, she does have to make unpopular decision because it’s the right thing to do, she said.

"Whether it’s personnel matters or raising rates, I know I’m impacting lives, but at the same time, I have to be strong in carrying out the responsibilities that I’ve been entrusted with.  I absolutely believe that if you do what is right and always be honest, people may not like your decision but that they’ll understand," she said.  

Lopez also plans to be a more hands-on general manager at the MNWD.

"I can’t speak for the previous administration. I like to get out there and engage the people I work with. Whether it’s the public or staff, I enjoy the interaction and learning about how we can better serve our customers. I’m open, accessible and invite everyone to reach out to me," she said.