Placer County Water Agency fills District 1 board vacancy

The Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) Board of Directors has appointed Jefferson Willoughby to fill the District 1 board vacancy representing most of Roseville and portions of west Placer County. The appointment was made during the board's May 11 meeting following a public interview process that included four qualified applicants. Willoughby fills the vacancy created by the retirement of longtime Director Gray Allen, who served on the board for nearly 20 years. The appointment extends through Dec. 4, following the November 2026 election for the District 1 seat. Board members questioned applicants about long-term planning, regional cooperation, infrastructure needs and public service before selecting Willoughby for the appointment. During the interview process, Willoughby spoke about the importance of thoughtful, data-informed decision-making, regional cooperation and long-term stewardship of public infrastructure. He also described public service as an opportunity to give back to the community that has supported his family for decades. "This was a difficult decision for the board because we had four highly qualified applicants to consider," said PCWA Board Chair Robert Dugan. "The board appreciates the willingness of each applicant to step forward and serve the community." A Roseville resident of more than 30 years, Willoughby previously served on the Roseville Grants Advisory Commission, the Roseville City School District Board of Trustees and the City of Roseville Independent Redistricting Commission. He spent much of his career with Roseville Telephone Company, where he developed experience navigating infrastructure systems, regulatory requirements and regional service coordination. "The water agency is a quiet but essential part of daily life," Willoughby said. "The work happening at PCWA affects communities for decades, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and look forward to working with the board and staff to support reliable water service for the communities of Placer County."