We requested email interviews with all Board candidates and sent them all the same questions. We are posting them in the order received. Here are Dave Stephenson’s responses, received July 14.
1. Are you a shareholder? If not, why do you want this unpaid job?
Yes, I am a shareholder. While Crestview’s bylaws do not require directors to be shareholders, I believe it’s important that board members have a personal stake in the decisions we make. As a shareholder, I’m directly impacted by the policies we set, and that perspective helps guide my leadership. It also reinforces my commitment to serving the best interests of our community.
2. How many hours per average month do you expect to spend on Crestview matters?
I currently spend between 50 and 60 hours per month on Crestview matters. Much of that time is devoted to working closely with our interim General Manager and outside legal counsel on infrastructure planning, regulatory compliance, and long-term water supply strategies. This level of involvement is necessary to ensure continuity and progress on key initiatives.
3. In the past year, how many Board meetings have you missed?
I have not missed any board meetings in the past year. As President, I believe consistent leadership and full participation are essential, especially during a period of transition and strategic planning.
4. Do you plan to serve at least one full year if you are elected or reelected?
Yes. We are at a critical juncture, with major projects underway – including the selection and approval of a new well and strengthening our strategic partnership with Calleguas Municipal Water District. I intend to see these efforts through and help position Crestview for long-term success.
5. Will you make your email address and/or phone number available to Shareholders for direct two-way communications on Crestview policy matters?
Yes. I’ve always made myself available to shareholders and will continue to do so. I believe in open, transparent communication and welcome input, questions, and concerns from fellow shareholders. It’s a vital part of building trust and accountability.
6. In the past year, what has the Board done well, and what improvements are desirable?
The board has made significant progress in stabilizing our finances, improving transparency, and strengthening relationships with regional water agencies. We’ve also advanced planning for long-term infrastructure needs. One area for improvement is how we communicate complex issues—like water sourcing and regulatory changes—to shareholders. I’d like to see us expand our outreach and educational efforts in the coming year.
7. What are your thoughts about at least one of Crestview’s long-term challenges, such as shrinking groundwater allocations, aging infrastructure, technology, finances, governance, urbanization, disaster preparedness, climate change, etc.?
One of our most pressing long-term challenges is the reduction in groundwater allocations. I believe most shareholders seriously underestimate the threat this issue poses to Crestview in the long term. My top priority is, of course, securing approval for a new water well to ensure a reliable local supply. At the same time though, we need to recognize there will likely come a day when our allocation alone will not come close to meeting our overall water demand. We must, therefore, strengthen our partnership with Calleguas to make imported water more attractive (e.g., compatible, available, affordable) now, while we have the opportunity. This dual approach—local resilience and regional collaboration—will help protect Crestview from future supply disruptions and regulatory constraints.
8. What else would you like Shareholders to know about how you plan to help Crestview?
As President, I want to help make Crestview a water company that is resilient, transparent, and forward-looking. That means investing in infrastructure, planning for future water needs, and ensuring that shareholder voices are heard. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made, but there’s a lot more to do—especially in securing our water future. I encourage all shareholders to stay engaged, attend meetings, and consider joining a committee. This is your water company. Your involvement makes all of us stronger.
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