Changes to Big Bear Lake's DWP board

   For many years, residents living outside of the City of Big Bear Lake and who are governed by the Department of Water and Power’s (DWP) board have been upset with the lack of representation. Those areas are Fawnskin, Sugarloaf, Lake Williams with parts of Big Bear City represent 40% of the total DWP’s customer base. Board members to the DWP are appointed by Big Bear Lake’s City Council and are required to be residents of Big Bear Lake.

   In September 2009, the City Council agreed to establish a committee with the DWP to explore the possibility of revising the Charter. On Dec 12, they had their first committee meeting. There were 14 citizens present. A revision to the charter was drafted, and after much deliberation, the revision met the approval of the committee and those of us that were present.
   The committee will finally present this proposed revision to the City Council this Monday night for their approval. If the Council approves it, it will then be placed on the November ballot for the citizens of Big Bear Lake to vote on.
   If you are not a DWP customer this will concern your water service and you are being asked to come to this City Council meeting in Mar. 8, at 6:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center in Hofert Hall to show support for this revision. Representation is a fundamental right that we all should have. It would be beneficial to have a strong contingent of like-minded citizens there showing support for this revision. You may address the Council on this subject by filling out a card and handing it to the City Clerk Kathy Jeffries before the meeting begins.

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