NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District Renames Headquarters Building
in Honor of Former Board Member Philip R. Williams
LAKE ELSINORE, CA – The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) announced the renaming of its headquarters building to the “Philip R. Williams Administration Building” in recognition of Mr. Philip R. Williams’ remarkable twenty-three years of dedicated service as a Board Member of EVMWD. The District hosted a Community Dedication Event on November 2, 2023, to unveil the new name and celebrate his enduring legacy.
“It’s a fitting tribute to name the EVMWD Headquarters after a man who embodied the District core values of professionalism, enthusiasm, integrity, inclusiveness and stewardship,” stated Board President, Andy Morris.
Phil Williams was first appointed to the EVMWD Board on June 24, 1998, representing Division 4. He was subsequently elected for four-year terms in 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020. Over the years, Phil’s commitment to EVMWD’s mission and the communities it serves has been exemplary. He served as EVMWD’s Board President in multiple years, in addition to his roles on various committees, affiliated boards, and local organizations, further strengthening the District’s ties within the community.
“Today we honor one of Lake Elsinore’s sons, Philip Williams. He would not have asked for this pomp and circumstance in his honor.” said Chance Edmondson, Vice President for EVMWD. “Phil left a huge legacy and reputation, especially that of being a leader, not only to the District, but the entire community – Leader’s success is growing others, and Phil did that. We miss you Phil.”
Throughout his tenure, Phil played a vital role in facilitating numerous historical milestones, including his involvement in the Recycled Water Task Force, which led to the use of recycled water as replenishment water for Lake Elsinore in 2002, as well as the installation of a groundbreaking municipal solar energy project. He was instrumental in initiating the rate assistance program, securing grants and funding for water reliability and sustainability projects, and played a key role in critical cooperative and settlement agreements.
“During Phil’s tenure, he brought an unparalleled level of expertise and insight to our board meetings. His leadership style was characterized by humility and a genuine commitment to our community. We are all grateful for his lasting impact,” added Harvey Ryan, Board Treasurer. “I had the privilege of working 18 years alongside an individual of immense integrity and vision, he was a true friend and confidant, and his legacy is a testament to who he was.”
Phil’s dedication extended through challenging times, periods of unprecedented growth, drought, regulatory challenges, and even a pandemic. His vision, innovation, and resourcefulness elevated EVMWD’s reputation as one of the most highly recognized and honored water districts for its financial and operational efficiencies and conservation efforts.
“Phil Williams’ legacy goes far beyond his accomplishments; it’s the values he lived by. He loved his family and community, unapologetically, and that love made him a good husband, father, leader, business owner, and to us, friend. Generations to come will now know his name, and the community is forever changed by his heart,” added Board Director, Darcy M. Burke.
In addition to his many professional accomplishments, Phil Williams was known for his unwavering commitment to diplomacy, professionalism, and fairness, fostering strong relationships with the District’s staff, local, state, and federal representatives. His unwavering dedication and tireless efforts earned him the respect and admiration of all who worked alongside him.
“In Phil, we lost not just a colleague, but a dear friend. His passion for our mission was infectious, and his legacy will continue to inspire us as we carry on his work. The Board and I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Williams family,” stated Jack Ferguson, Board Director. “Having known Phil for many years, it is a humbling and true honor to serve Division 4 as his replacement.”
Phil passed away in November 2022. The Board of Directors of EVMWD expresses profound sorrow for the loss of Phil Williams and deep appreciation for his impactful contributions and twenty-three years of dedicated service. Phil Williams was not only a devoted public servant but also a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, and cherished member of the EVMWD family and the community. His absence will be deeply felt.
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EVMWD provides service to more than 159,000 water and wastewater customers in a 97-square-mile area in Western Riverside County. The EVMWD team delivers total water management that powers the health and vibrancy of its communities so life can flourish.
