Candidate Response: Alina Layng
1. What qualifications and experiences (e.g., education, professional background, relevant technical expertise, experience with collaborative decision making, etc.) do you bring to the SLV Water District Board of Directors? How many hours per month do you expect to commit to this role?
I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Oregon State University, with an emphasis in Marine Biology, and conducted my studies at the renowned Hatfield Marine Science Center. I have gained a strong understanding of the needs for a healthy ecosystem and the beneficial use of water through my education and my professional experiences working in watersheds at National Marine Fisheries Services (NMFS), US Army Corps of Engineers, Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission, Washington and Oregon Departments of Fish and Wildlife.
My experience working in watershed management is particularly relevant as we advance the San Lorenzo River Watershed Conjunctive Use Agreement. I will work to optimize both surface water and groundwater resources, which is crucial for building a resilient water supply that can adapt to climate change. By managing these resources carefully, we can ensure that all residents have access to clean, reliable water, even as environmental conditions change.
In 2021, I was appointed to the SLV Water District’s Environmental Committee (later combined into the Environmental and Engineering Committee). During that appointment, the completion of the Fall Creek Fish Ladder Rehabilitation Project presented a significant challenge to the District. As a mandated project, it faced disqualification from numerous grant opportunities, but through diligent research and participation in grant workshops, I was able to identify the Restoration Grant Program created by the 2014 Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act (2014 Prop. 1) as a source of funding and write a letter of recommendation that ultimately played a key role in securing a $1.1 million grant for the project. Consequently, not only were the funds needed to complete the project obtained, but the Water District was also able to implement changes to the fish ladder design (for which I had advocated) to facilitate the safe upstream passage for native lamprey, enabling them to reach their spawning grounds effectively. It was a financial and environmental victory.
There are two seats available on the board in this election, and I am running alongside Bryan Largay, a fellow scientist with decades of experience in hydrology and land conservation. Together, we have demonstrated our ability to collaborate effectively and work through board issues. One of the ongoing challenges has been the tone of the board, with entire meetings often diverted by a board member's behavior. As a reasonable individual, I will not be drawn into this kind of drama, allowing us to focus on the critical task of policy-making. With my professional background as a scientist and years of experience in environmental conservation and sustainable resource management, I bring both competence and a commitment to good governance.
We need a more diverse board that truly represents our community. Having a female voice on the board is a step in the right direction, and I hope it will lead to further diversity beyond just gender in the future. As a parent, I am in a unique position to dedicate the time needed for this largely unpaid role, which offers a stipend of about $2,000 a year and can require up to 30 hours a week to effectively fulfill its responsibilities. Young families are often underrepresented in politics due to the demands of daily life, such as sports practices, music lessons, scouts, and playdates. Our concerns are critical, as we are shaping the future for our children.I am fully committed to dedicating as much time as necessary each month to serve on this board and advocate for sustainable water management practices, ensuring that future generations inherit a healthy, resilient watershed.
In conclusion, my diverse perspective, combined with my professional expertise and commitment to effective governance, makes me a strong candidate for this position. I bring a unique blend of experience in environmental conservation and watershed management, which is essential as we navigate the complexities of the San Lorenzo River Watershed Conjunctive Use Agreement. My dedication to sustainable water practices, coupled with my ability to stay focused on meaningful policy-making, will help foster a board that truly represents and serves our community. By prioritizing good governance and equitable resource management, I am committed to ensuring that our district not only meets today's challenges but is also prepared for a resilient and sustainable future.