GEORGE OSBORNE’S PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT

When first elected I promised to help make El Dorado Irrigation District better. Here are some of the promises I made and kept along the way.

George, Congressman Doolittle, & US Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner John Keys at the handover of Sly Park

ENSURING ADEQUATE WATER SUPPLIES

I worked closely with Congressman Dolittle to buy Sly Park from the Federal Government and to obtain water rights at Jenkinson Lake. I went back to Washington D.C. to help negotiate the deal, which ensured that we would own the water and never again beg for our water. Naysayers said it couldn’t be done, but we now control our own water destiny. Promise made, promise kept. Spoiler Alert: This fall we will celebrate making the final payment for Sly Park.
I’m also proud to have advocated buying Project 184 from PG&E. The project provides most of EID’s remaining water rights not supplied by Jenkinson Lake. Another promise made and kept.

Sly Park Recreation Area

SAVING RECREATION AT SLY PARK

After EID bought Sly Park the state told EID, “no swimming allowed at Jenkinson Lake”. I worked closely with Senator Rico Oller to introduce a bill to allow swimming and boating on the lake. I’m proud to have played a part in helping Sly Park be the jewel it is today. One more promise made, one more kept.

George discussing agricultural issues with local vinter Greg Boeger

SUPPORTING AGRICULTURAL FAMILIES

I promised to support our agricultural family farms and ranches by maintaining competitive water rates, despite opposition from a few who do not appreciate the value of keeping families on the land. The alternative would likely be housing developments in place of orchards and vineyards. Promise made, promise kept.

George accepting a $2,772,00 grant from PG&E. The grant covered half the cost of the solar project powering the El Dorado Hills Wastewater Treatment Plant

LIVING WITHIN OUR MEANS

Through the intelligent use of automation, I reduced the number of EID employees by 30%. Reduced EID’s annual Worker’s Comp Insurance from $1,900,000 to $268,000 by applying what I learned as a Cal Fire Chief to reduce worker accidents. I also championed solar power at wastewater treatment plants, saving millions in electricity costs. EID’s budget has been balanced every year since I joined the board. More promises made and kept.

George inspecting the El Dorado Hills Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Developer fees fully covered the cost of the plant

MAKING DEVELOPMENT PAY

From day one I promised to make sure development pays the full cost of increasing water rights and expanding infrastructure to serve new development. Another promise made and kept.
I’m proud that EID is so much better today, which is reflected in EID’s bond rating, improving from C+b- to Aa- saving millions of dollars in interest payments. With your support I will keep more promises, such as guaranteeing the safety of EID water. Please call me 530-613-3800 with any comments or questions.

Thank you for your continued trust,

George Osborne