The nation’s largest water district has a new role for its interim deputy general manager in charge of finance.

Westlands Water District announced on Wednesday that Stephen Farmer became the Fresno-based agency’s chief administrative officer on Oct. 1.

“Steve brings a wealth of professional experience and a deep commitment to our district’s water users, making him an invaluable asset to our team. Throughout his tenure with the district, he has played a crucial role in saving over $40 million,” said Westlands General Manager Allison Febbo.

“In his new position, I am confident he will lead the administrative team with excellence, tackling our water supply challenges while keeping our water rates accessible for all users.”

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Farmer Has 13 Years With Westlands

Farmer came to Westlands with a degree in business administration and a focus on accounting. Over the past 13 years with the district, Farmer has served in several roles. Before becoming deputy general manager, he was supervisor of customer accounting and general accounting.

His new job will oversee the finance and administration, operation and maintenance, energy, power, and resources departments.

“I am thrilled to take on the role of chief administrative officer at Westlands Water District after 13 incredible years with this dedicated team,” Farmer said. “Together, we’ve tackled many challenges, and I am excited to continue our mission, providing reliable and affordable water services to our water users while fostering innovation and efficiency.”

The district’s energy department is set to take on a much larger role in coming years. The California Legislature last month removed a major hurdle in Westlands’ vision for its Valley Clean Infrastructure Plan. The endeavor could generate 20,000 megawatts through solar power on fallowed land.

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Westlands can now not only build and operate solar panels, but also the transmission lines to carry that energy.