official notice

Monday, July 14, 2003

Subject: Death of Director Ski Wolniewicz

It is with regret that we inform you of the death of Director James “Ski” Wolniewicz on Saturday, July 12, 2003.

Director “Ski” represented Chula Vistans in the South Bay Irrigation District 4, an area roughly between Third Avenue and Hilltop Avenue, and between C Street and Orange Avenue. Wolniewicz had served on the Sweetwater Authority Board since 1992 and served as its Chairman from 1998 to 2000. He also served as president on the South Bay Irrigation District (SBID) Board numerous times. He was most recently reelected to a four-year term on the SBID in 2002 and had also served as President of that Board. Wolniewicz campaigned for fiscal restraint, seniors’ rights and enhanced access to services for his constituents. Wolniewicz was a strong proponent for local water sources, including Sweetwater Authority’s groundwater demineralization facility and the seawater desalination plants currently proposed for the San Diego region.

Wolniewicz represented Sweetwater Authority and other local water agencies as an Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) District 10 Board Member, and on ACWA’s statewide Finance Committee and Joint Powers Authority Insurance Board. He was a member of the San Diego Local Agency Formation Commission Special Districts Advisory Committee, and was immediate past Chairman of the San Diego Chapter of the California Special Districts Association. Locally, Wolniewicz represented Sweetwater Authority on the San Diego County Water Authority Financial Assistance Program Committee, and on the Chula Vista Interagency Water Task Force, a body formed to bring City and water policy makers together to solve problems and prepare for the future.

Wolniewicz was a retired navy officer, an aviator and a Vietnam Veteran. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, growing fuchsias, and using the latest in computer technology. His outspoken personality and sense of humor made him memorable in the water community. He is survived by three daughters, six grandchildren and many friends.

Viewing will be on Wednesday, July 16, at Glenn Abbey Mortuary, 3838 Bonita Road, Bonita, from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m., with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. There will be a Funeral Mass at noon on Thursday, July 17, at St. Rose of Lima, 293 H Street, Chula Vista.

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