In August, the Local Agency Formation Commission, or LAFCO, described three scenarios any one of which would place in jeopardy the short-term viability of the Morongo Valley Community Services District. Last night, one of those scenarios presented itself. Reporter Mike Lipsitz was there…
LAFCO’s August audit report cautioned that if Morongo Valley Fire Department’s ailing main fire engine was to suddenly go out of commission, or if the fire department was to lose its contract to fight fires outside the district, or if the district was to lose general manager Donna Munoz, financial stability of the CSD would be placed in serious jeopardy. At last night’s meeting of the CSD board Munoz tendered her resignation. Calling the position one of the most challenging she’s ever held. Upbeat but guardedly optimistic, Munoz recommended the board “think ‘Morongo,’ rather than ‘big city’” as it grapples with establishing balance while addressing priorities. Munoz assured the board that she but there for a smooth transition and to help put together a budget acceptable to LAFCO. Munoz, who has a record of accomplishments in public service going back more than 25 years, said her sights are now set on spending more time with her husband and taking care of her health.
Also last night, Andrew Arthen was introduced as the district’s interim fire chief and Don Krouse was nominated to receive the Chuck Osborn Volunteer of the Year Award for his work in support of the fire tax.
MORONGO VALLEY CSD GENERAL MANAGER DONNA MUNOZ RESIGNS
