PRIORITIES

community engagement

Growing up the son of immigrants, Trustee Nicolas Kiet Quach understands the need for accurate representation. Despite the SGVMWD being comprised of a significant percentage of Asian American and Latino residents, this seat has not adequately represented these communities.

As a community leader, Nicolas witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by underrepresented communities. He saw how lack of outreach often left his neighbors uninformed about resources.

As your next Water Board Director, I will:

  • Inclusive Representation: Ensure that all communities receive the attention and resources they deserve. This means actively engaging with community stakeholders and holding regular forums to hear directly from residents.

  • Accessible Services: Provide local accessibility at local community centers & Libraries to rebate information and assistance, eliminating the need for residents to travel to the SGVMWD’s Azusa Office for older residents.

SAVING COSTS FOR RESIDENTS

In today's economy, working families are struggling with rising costs. I've seen my own family face difficult choices due to utility bills. Families should not have to choose between putting food on the table and paying for essential utilities.

As a young adult, Nicolas often heard his family discuss the strain of utility bills, a topic all too familiar to many families. As your Director, I will:

  • Proactive Rebate Programs: Explore different rebate options, including increased amounts on a sliding scale based on income. This initiative aims to ease the financial burden on families, ensuring equitable accessibility to cost-saving measures.

  • Technical Assistance: Offer support for the installation of water-saving technologies purchased through rebates. By providing expert assistance, we can ensure that residents fully benefit from these programs.

  • Water-Wise Solutions: Promote the use of water-wise plants through rebates to reduce water usage and costs, turning every garden into a model of cost-effective sustainability.

DELIVERING FOR OUR COMMUNITY

Despite being the largest city in the SGVMWD, our community has not received our fair share of funding. As a lifelong Alhambran and a product of local public schools, Nicolas understands the importance of adequate resources for educational institutions and our greater community. 

Nicolas recalls the outdated facilities at his own school and the impact it had on learning.

As your Director, I will:

  • Support Local Schools: Work with school districts to fund hydration stations and advanced irrigation technology. Ensuring students have access to clean drinking water and green spaces can significantly improve their school experience.

  • Community Projects: Implement rain capture systems at schools and government buildings, and support water-wise plant installations in parks. These projects not only conserve water but also serve as educational tools for our youth.

  • Grant Acquisition: In 2023, nearly half of the District’s grant money was allocated to Sierra Madre – the wealthiest city in the District; leaving Alhambra virtually nothing despite being the largest city. I’ll actively seek grants to support infrastructure projects, ensuring that our water district is both efficient and effective.

Infrastructure

Investing in infrastructure is crucial to prevent rising water rates. Nicolas has always supported projects that have kept our communities running smoothly.

During his tenure on the Library Board, he managed a substantial budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility. As your Water Board Director, I will:

  • Facility Improvements: Secure funding for capital improvements at Alhambra and Monterey Park treatment facilities. This will help us maintain high-quality water services without increasing costs for residents.

  • Stormwater Projects: Advocate for stormwater capture projects, particularly in Alhambra, turning environmental challenges into opportunities for community improvement.

SMALL BUSINESSES

Supporting small businesses is vital for our community’s economy. Nicolas’ family owned a small business, and he understands the unique challenges they face.

He remembers helping out at his family’s business, where every penny counted. As your Director, I will:

  • Modernization: Help businesses upgrade to water-efficient appliances and fixtures through rebates, reducing their operational costs and improve water efficiency. This support can make a significant difference for small business owners, allowing them to thrive and grow.

PROTECTING HOMEOWNERS & RESIDENTS

Homeowners and residents should not bear the burden of high property taxes. Nicolas believes in creating a fair and equitable community where everyone can afford to live and thrive.

Reflecting on his family’s efforts to maintain their home, Nicolas is committed to making homeownership more accessible. As your Director, I will:

  • Maintain Low Rates: Ensure efficient operation of the SGVMWD without increasing property taxes. Our focus will be on smart, sustainable financial practices.

  • Turf Replacement: Promote the Bureau of Reclamation's Turf Replacement Conservation Program to secure matching grants for turf replacement projects. This initiative will help homeowners & residents save money while conserving water