BJ Atkins spoke to his constituents about his campaign for a third term on the Newhall Water County District Board of Directors on Thursday.
“I want to continue to be your water warrior,” Atkins said.
The fundraiser was held at Spirit Holdings by hosts, Larry and Peggy Rasmussen, in order to support Atkins’ campaign. After being on the Newhall Water County District Board of Directors since 2005, Atkins is hoping to continue with his position for a third four-year term.
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As a resident of the Santa Clarita Valley for more than 47 years and an alumni from both Hart High School and College of the Canyons, Atkins considers himself “blessed” and wants to give back to his community.
“To whom much is given, much is expected,” Atkins said.
A degree in Oceanography and Economics from Humbolt State is what prepared him for a career dealing with water. Atkins is the owner of Atkins Environmental H.E.L.P. Inc., which has given him an understanding of drinking water quality and supply.
Atkins is involved with many groups including the American Indoor Air Quality Council, the Air & Waste Management Association, the Association of Energy Engineers and the new association of Hazardous Material Professionals. He has also served on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and chair of the Valencia Industrial Association’s Environmental Committee. Atkins is also the current Vice President of the Newhall County Water District.
“Leadership has kind of been part of my life,” Atkins said.
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Atkins described himself as a “volunteeraholic” for all of the committees, groups and organizations that he is involved in. As a member of the Newhall County Water District, Atkins would play an important role in setting the District’s policies, taxes, ordinances and rates for services.
“I am one of those rare politicians that actually sign the front of paychecks,” Atkins said.
When he first started at Newhall County Water District, they were serving 7,000 connections. They now have 9,700 connections and serve over 44,000 people in the Santa Clarita Valley. They serve the four areas, consisting of Castaic, Pinetree, Newhall and Tesoro.
“There is no reason to change,” Larry Rasmussen said. “We have a hard working water warrior and we need to keep him in his seat.”
Newhall County Water District depends on the Castaic Lake Water Agency because it supplies about half the water to homes in Santa Clarita. Atkins wants the people of Santa Clarita to focus on water conservation. Since we live in a desert, we must be careful with our water.
Both the Castaic Lake Water Agency and Newhall County Water District host classes to show people how to preserve water when they water their lawns. They also supply irrigation controllers to conserve water.
Atkins wants to remain on the Newhall County Water District Board of Directors and encourages people to vote at the local elections beginning on July 7 and running until August 9.
“I want to send out a message that I am serious about this,” Atkins said. “I plan to win.”
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