About The Water Conservation Garden Authority

The Water Conservation Garden Authority is a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) – meaning it’s a partnership of multiple public agencies that came together to jointly operate and support the Water Conservation Garden. Under California’s Joint Exercise of Powers Act (Gov. Code §6500 et seq.), public education entities, such as school districts, community college districts, and universities are eligible to participate in a Joint Powers Authority (JPA).

The goal of this partnership is to promote water conservation, sustainable landscaping, and environmental education for the benefit of the community and region.

The current Water Conservation Garden Authority Board of Directors include the following public agencies and their representatives:

• Helix Water District  President – Kathleen Coates Hedberg PE, MPH

• Otay Water District  Vice-President Jose Lopez

• Sweetwater Authority Director Steven Castaneda

• Grossmont–Cuyamaca Community College District Director Lynn Ceresino Neault, Ed.D.

• Acting Administrator – Brian Olney

• Treasurer – Jennifer Bryant
• Director of Garden of Operations – Lauren Magnuson

Together, these agencies share resources, governance, and expertise to ensure the Garden remains a vibrant educational center serving the community and promoting the wise use of water throughout the region.

If you are interested in becoming a JPA member of the Garden, please contact Director of Garden Operations, Lauren Magnuson lauren@thegarden.org .