Water District Officials and Their Perks

I am angry over the apparent lack of integrity in our officials, namely, Mr. Walter Knitz and Mr. Michael Lord of the Santa Margarita Water District. Their callous disregard of responsibility to protect and preserve the taxpayers’ funds makes me wonder if all government officials do it.

In my business, I expect our managers to “walk like they talk,” that is, show others how to behave and you will experience the benefit from all associates in controlling costs. I can understand an honest mistake in the submission of an expense account; but flagrant abuses such as triple billing would lead to the separation of the associate from our company.

Giving Messrs. Knitz and Lord the benefit of the doubt that the double and triple billings were honest mistakes, I cannot believe that a true manager would take other than prudent lodging (no suite) and realistic meals while on business.

Further, the use of a limo versus a taxi is beyond reality. Do they rent suites, watch several movies, take limos while on vacation? I doubt it. Even with their income, this would certainly stretch their resources.

Now, the real crux of the reason for separation of services of an associate would be how can one take high-ticket items and in good conscience not be influenced? A rule of behavior we suggest is: If you can’t eat it, drink it, or smoke it in 24 hours or if it exceeds $25 in value, it may be considered inappropriate to accept.

Finally, I was of the opinion that civil servants signed statements that they would not accept gifts considered to influence their judgment nor were contractor’s permitted to give excessive gifts which might be considered bribes.

Based on the articles, it appears to me that both individuals should resign and the contractors be barred from doing business with the water district.

DONALD V. HALLER

Mission Viejo