Helix Water District Honored for Environmental Stewardship by Helix Water District Mar 3, 2026 Member Submitted News Helix Water District received the Environmental Stewardship Award at the 114th Annual East County Honors Awards Gala, hosted by the San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes Helix’s leadership in advancing innovative and collaborative solutions that protect natural resources and strengthen long-term water reliability for East County. For more than a century, Helix Water District has delivered safe, reliable drinking water while investing in conservation, clean energy, and resilient infrastructure for the benefit of its customers. Today, the district continues to charge forward with projects and initiatives that position Helix as a regional leader in environmental stewardship. “Sustainability is not a single achievement but a daily commitment,” said Board President Kathleen Coates-Hedberg. “We are honored to be recognized for our ongoing efforts. From clean energy investments to advanced water purification, our progress is driven by the dedication of our employees, the strength of our regional partnerships, and the trust of the customers we proudly serve.” This district’s commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in the following accomplishments: • Installed a first-of-its-kind, state-of-the-art charging system at the Nat L. Eggert Operations Center — now the largest medium- and heavy-duty fleet charging installation in California, and almost entirely funded by grants. • Reduced energy costs and demand, saving up to 18% on electric commodity rates through direct purchase agreements while also cutting facility electricity use by 15% through efficiency upgrades — collective savings that benefit Helix customers. • Improved regional water reliability through participation in the East County Advanced Water Purification Program, reducing reliance on the Colorado River and Sierra Nevada runoff. • Lowered greenhouse gas emissions by 40% through fleet, energy and operational improvements. • Earned Green Business certification in 2025 from the California Green Business Network and the City of La Mesa. • Led a multi-agency effort to restore the governance, management and financial stability of the Water Conservation Garden. • Promoted long-term water efficiency, helping reduce average water use from 142 gallons per person per day in 1992 to 90 gallons in 2025. “Environmental sustainability and fiscal responsibility go hand in hand,” said Coates Hedberg. “For every project, the district considers how best to protect our natural resources while also delivering value to the customers we serve.” The East County Honors Awards Gala, a long-standing tradition celebrating excellence in business and community leadership, brings together organizations that exemplify innovation, responsibility and service. Helix Water District is honored to be recognized among those helping shape a more sustainable future for East County. About Helix Water District Helix Water District is a public water agency serving more than 278,000 people in East San Diego County. Since 1913, Helix has remained committed to delivering high-quality water, strengthening regional reliability, and advancing sustainable practices that benefit the community and environment. The San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce advocates for improving business opportunities, public policy, and business education throughout San Diego County. For more information, visit www.eastcountychamber.org/.
