The filing period for candidates in the upcoming November election has come to a close. For the Las Virgenes Metropolitan Water District, there are two Divisions up for election (1 and 4). Division 4 covers all of the City of Westlake Village, part of the unincorporated area south and east of Westlake Village, and a bit of Agoura. District 1 covers Hidden Hills and surround areas.
For the first time in many years, there will be an election in Division 4 — as there is more than one candidate running. Like other local government entities, when a candidate runs unopposed, no election is held as it saves the District $30,000 to $40,000 for its portion of the general election costs.
Incumbent Joe Bowman will be taking part in his first election for this seat. Originally appointed to the position in 2002 [Ed. Note: corrected after revised info from LVMWD] after the director moved and gave up his seat, Mr. Bowman filed for election in both 2004, and 2008, but since no other candidates filed, the Board of Supervisors again appointed him both times.
Challenger Leonard “Len” Polan is an architect who has filed his candidacy to run for the seat. Like the incumbent, this will be the first time he runs in an election for this position.
More information to come on each candidate.