Platform

Consistent Opposition to Overpriced Water and Sewer

In 2020, Suzanne was elected as Director of Division 2, Padre Dam MWD, located north of Mission Gorge in Santee. Between 2020-2024, Suzanne has worked tirelessly to stabilize rising costs for water, sewer and pumping (energy).  The graphic explains what happens with the money you pay for water. 

Graphic depicting how water rates are used

Source:  Padre Dam MWD, 2024

Opposing Water/Sewer Rate Increases

  • As Director, Suzanne has NEVER supported a water or sewer rate increase.
  • Suzanne is a leading opponent to regional water rate increases proposed by the San Diego Water County Authority (SDCWA).  Each year the cost of water supplied by SDCWA to Padre Dam increases on average by 10%.   The ever-increasing cost of SDCWA retail water results in higher water bills for Padre Dam ratepayers.
  • Suzanne is a leading opponent to regional sewer rate increases proposed by the City of San Diego.
  • During COVID-19 crisis, Suzanne worked with the State of California so Padre Dam MWD may provide financial assistance for families in need to pay water/sewer bills. 

Building a clean, affordable water supply system: Advanced Water Purification (AWP)  

  • As Director, Suzanne champions Advanced Water Purification (AWP), delivering a local purified water supply source for East County.  For more information see: https://eastcountyawp.com/
  • Suzanne’s leadership secured an impressive $935 million funding for the AWP.  
  • AWP not only reduces Santee’s reliance on costly water from SDCWA; reduces sewer costs and produces energy. 

Graphic Title:  Sources of government funding for AWP

AWP Project Funding

Source:  East County AWP

Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve:  

  • Suzanne is Chair of the Santee Lakes Parks committee, she advocates for youth activities at Santee Lakes, family fishing, arts activities, and improved dining and camping experiences.
  • Suzanne promotes the amazing, diverse wetlands bird populations at Santee Lakes.  Over 247 bird species visit or reside at Santee Lakes. 

Facilitate partnerships and funding to restore and preserve Santee Lakes and the San Diego River watershed.

  • Suzanne opposes the planned hotel and condo development at the Carlton Oaks Golf Course, adjacent to the San Diego River.  
  • As with Mast Park and Santee Lakes, the Carlton Oaks Golf Course property should be preserved for the public, wildlife habitat and groundwater water storage.