For Immediate Release                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Contact: Naseem Farooqi

June 3, 2020                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Public Affairs Manager

 

WEST VALLEY WATER DISTRICT LEADERSHIP URGES SAFETY AND PEACE DURING LOCAL DEMONSTRATIONS

 

RIALTO, CA – As demonstrations continue to take place and outrage grows regarding the death of George Floyd, an African-American man killed while detained by police, the West Valley Water District (WVWD) leadership urges that all demonstrations remain peaceful.

 

Board President Channing Hawkins stated, “The recent death of George Floyd has reiterated our country’s need for live up to its promise “that all (men) created equal.”  I am encouraged to see a cross-section of people of all ages and from different racial and ethnic backgrounds speaking out against racial discrimination and excessive force. Recognizing all the protests taking place around the world, but most especially here in our community, I ask that we remember the power of nonviolent social movements to create meaningful change in federal, state, and local governments. Like much of the Inland Empire, our communities were built on the resiliency of small businesses and we have to ensure they remain intact. I am proud to represent and serve the West Valley Water District and its diverse community.”

WVWD Director and Retired Police Chief, Dr. Michael Taylor stated, “Our nation is experiencing trying times. Expressing our right to assemble peacefully is a critical component to our democracy. As individuals gather throughout our region to express concerns, it is necessary that we respect one another and the small businesses we come across. Peaceful communication and building a dialogue is how our community will be able to move forward together.”

 

The cities of Fontana and Rialto, which the WVWD serves, have declared a local state of emergency and enacted curfews beginning as early as 6:00 pm. The curfew comes from civil unrest during protests throughout the country over the past several days.

 

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The West Valley Water District has proudly served the communities of Bloomington, Colton, Fontana, Rialto, San Bernardino, and Jurupa Valley since 1952. Through name changes and consolidation, the mission has always remained the same: to provide customers with safe, high quality, and reliable water service at a reasonable rate and in a sustainable manner. The Water District provides water for 83,000 customers and is overseen by a five-member, publicly-elected board of directors.