Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) Director Peter Nelson announced during the district’s February 24 board of directors meeting that he will step down from the board after decades of service, citing personal reasons and a desire to continue contributing to the community in new ways.
Nelson said his resignation will take effect in late March or early April, with the exact date still to be determined. He made the announcement during board member comments at a recent meeting, describing the decision as the result of careful consideration.
“After careful consideration and believing I faithfully fulfilled some responsibilities to the district, and for personal reasons, I decided to leave the board and pursue other ways to continue contributing to the community that I have proudly called home since 1987,” Nelson said.
A tenure spanning a quarter of the district’s history
Nelson noted that his service represents nearly 25 percent of the district’s history. Over that time, he said he worked alongside several general managers and numerous fellow directors, crediting both past and present board members for their leadership.
He reserved particular praise for district staff, calling the more than 500 employees the agency’s greatest strength. Their professionalism and dedication, he said, are what make the CVWD special.
CVWD’s Thomas E. Levy Groundwater Replenishment Facility.
Nelson highlighted several major initiatives that he views as central to the district’s long-term sustainability. Among them were groundwater recharge efforts, including the Thomas E. Levy Groundwater Replenishment Facility and Mid-Valley Pipeline projects, and improvements to the Whitewater River. He also pointed to securing State Water Project imported water supplies as critical to the valley’s future.
“Our recycled water projects stand as a testament to efficient water usage,” Nelson said.
Looking beyond Division 4
Nelson emphasized that his work on the board has always extended beyond the boundaries of his own electoral division.
“As I transition from this role, please know that the water interest of the entire Coachella Valley, not just Division Four, will always be important,” he said.
Peter Nelson is elected in District 4, covering parts of Indio, Palm Desert and unincorporated Riverside County.
He added that he has taken seriously the responsibility to uphold the mission and leadership of those who committed to the Colorado River and the State Water Project to secure the valley’s future.
Nelson’s position Colorado River Board comes into question
Although he is resigning from the CVWD board, Nelson said he intends to continue serving on the Colorado River Board of California until the board determines whether to retain him in that role or appoint another representative.
“I will continue to serve on the Colorado River Board of California even after my departure until the board determines whether to retain me in that role, appoint an alternate or designate another director,” he said.
Colleagues react with praise and surprise
Fellow board members responded with visible emotion and praise.
Director John Powell told Nelson that he had been a huge asset to the district and said it would be difficult for anyone to replace him at the level he established.
During the meeting, Clerk of the Board Sylvia Bermudez outlined possible next steps for filling the vacancy. She noted that three seats are already scheduled for the November 2026 ballot in the upcoming election cycle, and that the timing of Nelson’s resignation could determine whether the seat is filled by appointment or election. If the vacancy occurs early enough in the term, state law may require an election to fill the remainder of the term, depending on the deadlines.
Nelson said he expects to participate in the remaining meetings before his departure.
“It’s been a privilege,” he said in closing. “Thank you.”
