El Dorado Hills (Dec 12, 2024) – Opinion By Larry Weitzman: EDHCSD Fails to Lead – A Taxpayer’s Burden
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District (EDHCSD) has long been entrusted with managing local resources efficiently and transparently. Yet, recent developments reveal a deep chasm between those expectations and reality. A notice sent last month to residents announced the cancellation of the November 14 meeting. Why? Because three key directors—President Noelle Mattock, Vice President Michael Martinelli, and Director Benjamin Paulsen—chose not to show up, preventing a quorum. This deliberate absenteeism raises serious questions about their commitment to accountability and public trust.
Their absence is especially galling given the agenda’s critical focus: unraveling years of financial mismanagement under former General Manager Kevin Loewen. Loewen’s tenure, which reportedly earned him over $200,000 annually in salary alone, left the CSD mired in litigation, financial waste, and controversies. His failure to comply with the California Mitigation Fee Act now burdens the CSD with a $6 million judgment. Compounding the mess, Loewen’s botched handling of Landscape and Lighting District Assessments led to even more financial losses, while his alleged double-dipping with consultants created glaring conflicts of interest. A comprehensive 603-page legal report confirms what many already suspected: Loewen’s mismanagement was as costly as it was unethical.
And yet, the trio of absentee directors seemed to align themselves with Loewen during his tenure, treating his leadership as infallible. Instead of addressing these issues head-on, they continue to sidestep scrutiny, even delaying depositions in ongoing litigation. This inaction leaves fellow board members Heidi Hannaman and Steve Ferry in the unenviable position of pushing for transparency amid obstruction.
The implications for taxpayers are staggering. Beyond the $6 million judgment, accrued interest and additional litigation costs could inflate the bill to over $7 million—money that could have funded parks, sports fields, or other community enhancements. Instead, residents are left footing the bill for years of mismanagement and evasion.
The April 2024 Grand Jury report lambasted the EDHCSD for its lack of oversight and transparency. Residents deserve answers, not excuses, and certainly not directors who shirk their responsibilities. It’s time for the EDHCSD to prioritize the public good over personal agendas. This community deserves better leadership, and the accountability clock is ticking.
What are your thoughts? Should the board members responsible face repercussions? Share your perspective in the comments below.
