Marin Water Board Appoints Shaun Horne as Next General Manager

CORTE MADERA — The Marin Water Board of Directors yesterday approved an employment agreement appointing Shaun Horne as Marin Water’s next General Manager following a comprehensive nationwide recruitment process.

Horne brings more than 18 years of progressive water resource and natural resource management experience to the role, including seven years of leadership at Marin Water. Most recently serving as Director of Watershed Resources and a key member of the District’s senior leadership team, Horne has helped lead major strategic initiatives and build partnerships that advance the District’s priorities. His work at Marin Water has included directing implementation of the Biodiversity, Fire, and Fuels Integrated Plan, helping advance the Lagunitas Creek Restoration Project and leading the ongoing update to the Mt. Tamalpais Watershed Roads and Trails Plan. Working closely with staff, he has also helped grow a grant program that has secured state and federal funding for critical environmental and water infrastructure projects benefiting the community.

“The Board conducted a thorough and competitive nationwide recruitment process to identify Marin Water’s next General Manager,” said Marin Water Board President Jed Smith. “Throughout that process, Shaun distinguished himself through his thoughtful approach, collaborative style and commitment to public service. During his seven years as a member of Marin Water’s senior leadership team, Shaun has demonstrated the judgment and ability to navigate complex initiatives, build strong partnerships and advance the District’s strategic priorities. The Board is confident he has the experience and perspective needed to guide Marin Water into its next chapter.”

“It is an honor to have the opportunity to serve as Marin Water’s next General Manager,” said Horne. “I am grateful for the Board’s confidence and excited to build on the important work already underway across the District. Marin Water plays an essential role in delivering safe, reliable water to our community while stewarding one of the most treasured watersheds in the country. I look forward to continuing to work alongside our talented employees, the Board and our community partners to advance the District’s strategic priorities and ensure Marin Water is prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Horne will officially begin serving as General Manager on October 1, 2026, while current General Manager Ben Horenstein transitions to an advisory role through the end of his contract term to support a smooth leadership transition. Horenstein previously announced his plans to retire following nearly eight years as General Manager. The Board expressed its appreciation for Horenstein’s dedicated leadership and many contributions to Marin Water.

Before joining Marin Water, Horne worked for Sonoma Water, where he coordinated flood control and ecological restoration projects, and later spent seven years with the Napa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, managing watershed and stream maintenance programs and directing the Napa River Restoration Project. As an active regional leader, Horne serves on the boards of Fire Safe Marin and Together Bay Area and on the One Tam Lands Stewardship Steering and Executive Committees.

Horne holds a master’s degree in international water resource management, a graduate certificate in water conflict management and transformation, and a bachelor’s degree in environmental sustainability and social justice. He was selected as a Water Education Foundation Water Leader in 2013 and participated in the inaugural cohort of the UC Berkeley Fung Institute for Engineering Executive Water Leadership Program in 2026.

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