The California Attorney General’s Office has issued a decisive ruling against Central Basin director Gary Mendez, finding that corruption and misconduct have undermined the agency’s leadership. The decision follows a lengthy investigation into the governance of the Central Basin Municipal Water District, which supplies water services to cities across southeast Los Angeles County, including Cerritos (Los Cerritos News).
Officials concluded that the agency’s leadership operated without transparency, eroding public trust. The ruling has renewed calls for reform and accountability, especially in light of concerns about how corruption may have affected water service delivery and financial management.
Community advocates have long raised questions about the district’s operations, citing allegations of political favoritism and mismanagement. The Attorney General’s findings give further weight to these criticisms, signaling possible structural changes for the water agency.
For Cerritos residents, the ruling could bring new oversight and stricter standards for one of the region’s most essential utilities. Local leaders say they will be monitoring the agency closely to ensure reliable and fair water services moving forward.
Sources: Los Cerritos News
