2021 Annual Report
Legislation and
Leadership
Water Authority Welcomes MWD’s New General Manager
The Water Authority welcomed new Metropolitan Water District of Southern California General Manager Adel Hagekhalil in June 2021, after he was selected to replace retiring GM Jeff Kightlinger. The ceremony included a formal address by Hagekhalil and a reception in his honor near the Water Authority’s WaterSmart demonstration garden.
Board Chair Gary Croucher called Hagekhalil’s appointment a “prime opportunity” for MWD and the Water Authority to partner for the benefit of water users throughout Southern California. Hagekhalil expressed a theme of unity on behalf of the region’s water ratepayers and the agencies that serve them. Numerous San Diego County elected officials, labor, business, and community groups joined in writing letters of support for Hagekhalil’s appointment.
“Water is about people, and I want to salute you for what you have done in San Diego. We know how important water is to our economy, we know how important it is for our businesses. Water is life. ”
MWD