Central Basin Municipal Water District is refusing to agendize a discussion of the indictment brought by L.A. County District Attorney George Gascón on its General Manager, Alex Rojas. 

On August 23rd, 2022, Rojas was charged by District Attorney George Gascón on 18 counts, including money laundering, soliciting a bribe, grand theft by embezzlement, perjury, and conflict of interest. 

Water Director Leticia Vasquez Wilson said, “It’s been months, and there is still no discussion. I call on my colleagues to agendize a discussion on this very concerning issue.” 

Vasquez has been outspoken against Rojas for years, notably highlighting Rojas’ illegal sale of the Central Basin District building. Rojas came under the scrutiny of the District Attorney in connection with investigations into his prior work at the Bassett Unified School District.

Instead of discussing the charges, the Board is set to consider a replacement for Division IV Director Phil Hawkins, who passed away last month. 

The candidates being considered are Juan Garza, Sally Havice, Edward Wilson, and Josue Lopez. SELA Report noted that the applications for appointment were not available for the public on the meeting agenda, and so we are making the applications available to readers.

In evaluating the candidates, Vasquez said “It is my hope the Board takes time to properly vet all those applicants who submitted an application. We need to come together and support a lawful process to fill the vacancy on the board.” 

Members of the public can participate in the 11/28/22 Board Meeting at 10am by joining Zoom, meeting ID 916 5955 3241.