CHESTER, PA — Chester Water Authority (CWA) is proud to commemorate the one-year anniversary of its groundbreaking minority majority board, a milestone that coincides with the organization’s continued commitment to providing award-winning, affordable public water services to its over 200,000 residents and businesses in Chester County, Delaware County, and the City of Chester.
In November 2022, a new CWA board was appointed with a majority composed of individuals from underrepresented backgrounds (6 of the 9 board members), a decision that has proven instrumental in steering the organization toward inclusivity, equity and innovation. This diverse board has been invaluable in contributing to CWA’s mission of ensuring affordable public water is accessible for all residents, taking into consideration the special needs of ratepayers of color.
Key members of the minority majority board include:Â
- Noël Brandon, Chairperson: A representative of Chester County, Mr. Brandon has played a pivotal role in leading the board’s efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization as well as a focus on continuous improvement for CWA’s operations and a commitment to keep CWA in public hands. Prior to his appointment to the CWA board, he held several leadership positions including the Managing Chairperson at a non-profit public/private water utility for five years, exhibiting his leadership and expertise in the water industry.
- Dr. Patricia Lewis-West, Vice Chairperson: Representing the City of Chester and a professor at Lincoln University, Dr. Lewis-West has brought valuable insights and a commitment to community engagement to the board.
- Livia Smith, Treasurer: Representing the City of Chester, and formerly Director of Health Services for the City, Ms. Smith’s role as Treasurer has been vital in overseeing financial matters and ensuring the sustainability and good standing of the Authority’s operations.
- Leonard Rivera, Board Secretary: Representing Chester County, an attorney and chair of the Pennsylvania Interbranch for Gender, Racial and Ethnic Fairness, Mr. Rivera’s contributions as the Board Secretary have been crucial in ensuring transparent and effective governance.
In addition to celebrating its diverse leadership, CWA is proud to announce a historic milestone for the organization. On December 4th, 2023, CWA will welcome its first person of color as CWA’s Executive Manager. Darryl Jenkins, P.E., CWA’s incoming Executive Manager, brings with him vast experience and a commitment to ushering in a new era for the protection and celebration of public water. Mr. Jenkins is a seasoned professional engineer and certified water/wastewater operator for water utilities in both the public and private sectors. He has a track record of success in planning, design, budgeting, construction management, and system operation. He will bring a dynamic energy to his role. A compelling communicator and team leader, Mr. Jenkins excels in administration and project management. He will be an asset to CWA. Mr. Jenkins will be replacing David J. Krupiak, who is retiring from CWA after 43 years of distinguished service.
“We are excited to welcome Darryl Jenkins as our Executive Manager, marking a historic moment for the Chester Water Authority,” said Noël Brandon, Chairperson of the CWA Board. “His wealth of experience and commitment to the safeguarding and celebration of public water will undoubtedly contribute to our ongoing mission of providing exceptional and inclusive water services to our community.”
Over the past year, CWA’s minority majority board has guided the organization to new heights, garnering accolades for its commitment to excellence in water management, having been awarded Best Tasting Water in Pennsylvania by the Pennsylvania American Water Works Association, in both the judged and People’s Choice Taste Test, a first for the competition that the same water provider won both awards.
“As stewards of the Octoraro Reservoir and its surrounding watershed, we take our environmental responsibilities seriously,” commented Lenny Rivera, Secretary of the CWA Board. “Preserving these natural resources is integral to our mission, and we remain dedicated to both the water needs of our community with the long-term health of our local environment.”
The announcement of Daryl Jenkins as the new Executive Manager of CWA will be made at the CWA Board meeting on Thursday, November 16 at 2PM. The CWA Board meetings are held at CWA Distribution Headquarters, 427 W. Front Street, Chester, PA in the first-floor conference room. Ratepayers and the public are welcome to attend and make comments during the public comment section of the meeting. Meeting dates for the year are published on the website at chesterwater.com.
For more information:
CHESTERWATER.COM (official CWA website)
CHESTERWATERFACTS.COM (informational website—for a deeper dive)
SAVECWA.ORG (grassroots outreach website—for community members taking action)
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