Steve Copelan grew up in this region and remained to make positive contributions to the community through his service on a variety of boards and commissions, at his church and also as a dedicated volunteer for the Inland Solar Challenge, a solar boat race competition for local high school students, that teaches them about energy and water conservation. The competition takes place over a weekend and Steve regularly participates as a judge where he genuinely appreciates and values the efforts of the students and enjoys the opportunity to offer them encouragement.
Steve served on the Board of Directors for the Yucaipa Valley Water District where he held the office of President. Steve left the Yucaipa Valley Water District Board to serve on the Board of Directors for the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District (Valley District), a special district responsible for obtaining supplemental water and for managing water resources in the San Bernardino Valley.
As a Director of Valley District Board for more than 18 years, Steve has held the offices of Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. During his tenure, Steve was also selected to serve on the Board of Commissioners for the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority (SAWPA) and on the Board of Directors for the Association of California Water Agencies Joint Powers Insurance Agency. Steve is also active in the California Special Districts Association where he has served as Chair and is active in his local church.
While on the Valley District Board, Steve worked to secure new supplemental water supplies. During his tenure, Valley District obtained a water right to divert stormwater that used to flow to the Pacific Ocean. He has also been a strong proponent of the proposed California Water Fix and the Sites Reservoir which would also provide additional, high quality supplemental water to our region.
By ensuring the region has a reliable, high quality water supply, Steve has helped protect and preserve the high quality of life that is presently enjoyed within our region. Through his efforts in this area, Steve has demonstrated his desire for ensuring a high quality, reliable water supply, for years to come, through his dedicated service in the area of water. His contributions have not only had an impact on this generation but will also have an impact on the next generation.
Nominated by the Executive Management Staff of the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District.