The Friant Water Authority (FWA) has announced that Chief Executive Officer Jason Phillips has informed the Board of Directors of his intention to step down, effective January 19, 2026.
Phillips will transition into a leadership role in the private sector, where he plans to remain involved in western water matters. Over the coming weeks, the FWA Board will evaluate options to ensure a smooth and orderly leadership transition.
“During his time with FWA, Jason has been a dedicated and results-driven leader whose influence was instrumental in advancing major infrastructure improvements, strengthening relationships with state and federal partners, and ensuring that Friant’s priorities were at the forefront of critical water policy discussions. His leadership has left a lasting impact, and I’m certain Jason will be successful in his new role,” said Richard Borges, Chairman of the FWA Board.
“It’s been an honor to serve the Friant Board and this region over the past 10 years, and I’m incredibly proud of our talented team,” added Phillips. “My priority now is a smooth handoff to help keep key projects and priorities on track. I intend to remain very engaged in western water, supporting solutions for farms, cities, and communities across the West.”
The Friant Water Authority is a public agency formed by its members under California law to operate and maintain the Friant-Kern Canal and to represent its members on federal and state policy, political, and operational decisions that could affect the water supply of the Central Valley Project’s Friant Division. The Authority’s goal is to provide dependable, sustainable water from Millerton Reservoir to Friant Contractors.
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