Senior Leadership
Christiana Daisy
Interim General Manager
Christiana Daisy, Interim General Manager
Christiana Daisy is the Interim General Manager for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and an Executive MBA from Loyola Marymount University, Christiana has over three decades of education and experience in engineering, water resources management, construction, and operations and maintenance. In addition to her leadership at IEUA, she contributes to academia as a lecturer in Civil Engineering at Loyola Marymount University.
As Interim General Manager, Christiana serves IEUA by providing crucial support to the Board and representing the staff. Her role involves strategic decision-making and leadership, upholding the Agency’s values, and guiding the organization towards its mission and goals.
Christiana’s impressive achievements include leading a significant organizational restructuring at IEUA. This milestone exemplifies a thoughtful and collaborative approach to change management and prioritization, as she works closely with the Board of Directors to position the organization for continued success.
Christiana is inspired by the incredible growth and development she witnesses in her fellow employees. She is dedicated to creating an empowering environment where they can flourish, supported by a strong system that nurtures their professional journey.
A memorable experience for Christiana is witnessing IEUA’s knowledgeable and hard-working staff present at Committee and Board meetings. Their cohesive and collaborative culture reflects the strong bond fostered at IEUA – a testament to the organization’s commitment to excellence.
Kevin L. Alexander
Deputy General Manager
Kevin L. Alexander, Deputy General Manager
Kevin L. Alexander, P.E., is the Deputy General Manager at the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA). Holding a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology, he brings over 30 years of expertise in engineering, water treatment, resource management, and operations and maintenance.
As Deputy General Manager at IEUA, Kevin oversees operations and maintenance, engineering, construction, laboratory, asset management, and planning. He implements short and long-term goals aligned with the Agency’s strategic and annual business plans, ensuring these functions drive innovative and sustainable solutions for the region.
Kevin has led some of Southern California’s largest advanced water reuse projects and played a key role in building organizations focused on water resource management. His hands-on technical expertise has driven technology implementation, digital transformation, and operational improvements, optimizing engineering and processes. With a proven record of leadership and technical proficiency, he guides the Agency’s future in advanced treatment and groundwater recharge, collaborating with the Board of Directors to position IEUA for continued success.
Witnessing the success of staff is a key source of inspiration. Kevin is committed to creating an empowering environment where team members can flourish, supported by a collaborative system that nurtures professional growth.
A memorable experience for Kevin is touring the IEUA facilities with the knowledgeable, hard-working staff who ensure the agency operates at the highest level every day. Their expertise and professionalism reflect the strong technical environment at IEUA and demonstrate the agency’s commitment to excellence.
Lisa Dye
Assistant General Manager
Lisa Dye, Assistant General Manager
Lisa Dye is the Assistant General Manager for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency, bringing over two decades of strategic leadership and HR administration expertise in California’s public sector. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, specializing in Management and Human Resources, and a Master of Arts in Psychology with a focus on Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Additionally, Lisa is a Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) and a Professional in Human Resources (PHR), underscoring her commitment to advancing best practices in leadership and organizational development.
As the Assistant General Manager, Lisa leads the Agency’s Finance, Human Resources, and Information Technology departments—three critical pillars of its operations. Her strategic oversight ensures these functions align seamlessly with the Agency’s broader mission, advance IEUA’s long-term goals, and ensure that administrative functions contribute to the Agency’s objectives.
Lisa’s extensive experience in employee and labor relations has shaped her ability to navigate complex negotiations and strengthen strategic partnerships. She has represented prominent institutions such as the University of California and California State University in labor negotiations, developed union strike protocols, and led major organizational restructures. These initiatives reflect her adeptness at aligning objectives, ensuring that leadership decisions are both practical and visionary.
A passion for strategic workforce development stems from her graduate research on Public Service Motivation theory, which focuses on understanding and harnessing the intrinsic motivations of public sector professionals. At IEUA, she has implemented initiatives aimed at maximizing both individual and organizational potential. By aligning her values with the Agency’s strategic plan, Lisa has established an inclusive and innovative work environment that supports collaboration and professional growth.
Her dedication to creating a thriving and motivated workforce highlights her commitment to IEUA’s mission of public service excellence. This approach not only enhances the Agency’s culture but also ensures a meaningful and lasting impact on its employees and the community it serves.
Marty Cihigoyenetche
General Counsel
Marty Cihigoyenetche, General Counsel
Marty Cihigoyenetche serves as the General Counsel for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA). Equipped with a Bachelor of Arts in English from UC Santa Barbara and a Juris Doctorate from Chapman University School of Law, his path into law was driven by a desire to navigate complex legal terrain and assist individuals facing challenges.
At IEUA, Marty serves as the legal advisor to the Agency and its Board of Directors, managing various affairs, transactions, and activities. He supervises external legal counsel, provides representation on litigation matters, and conducts legal research ensuring informed decision-making and legal compliance to the Board and Agency management.
Marty’s proudest moments involve his key role in a legal team, aiding the planning and construction of an 8-million-gallon-per-day (mgd) wastewater treatment facility for a water district. Despite numerous legal and political challenges, the project was completed, promising substantial benefits to the Agency’s constituents and the broader region.
Motivated by his upbringing in the Chino region and a deep sense of responsibility to governance, he directs his passion towards his role at IEUA. With a steadfast focus on safeguarding essential resources and serving his hometown community, he strives to preserve and expand local assets with financial prudence. This commitment underscores his dedication to the community’s welfare, driving his efforts to ensure its sustained prosperity.
At IEUA, Marty has been a driving force behind the Agency’s growth and significant projects. His active involvement in adopting the new Regional Sewage Service Contract marks a crucial step forward in enhancing regional infrastructure and sustainability.
Denise Garzaro
Director of Board and Administrative Services
Denise Garzaro, Director of Board and Administrative Services
Denise Garzaro is the Director of Board and Administrative Services for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s degree in Leadership and Management. With over 18 years of experience in the public sector, Denise has a strong background working in special districts and county government. Her dedication to her field is evident, as she is also a Certified Municipal Clerk.
As the Director of Board and Administrative Services at IEUA, Denise plays a crucial role in supporting the Agency’s five-member Board of Directors. She provides strategic leadership to both the Board Services and Administrative Services units, ensuring seamless operations and compliance with laws and regulations governing public meetings, elections, campaign financing, and public records.
Under her leadership, IEUA successfully implemented a centralized administrative services model that transformed and streamlined administrative support across all departments. This strategic initiative has enhanced consistency, accountability, and collaboration throughout the Agency, reinforcing IEUA’s reputation for operational excellence and service innovation.
Among her remarkable achievements is the successful implementation of an electronic filing system for Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700) for both IEUA and the Inland Empire Regional Composting Authority (IERCA). Denise also led the transition from a traditional paper-based Board agenda process to a fully digital and streamlined system, improving accessibility, workflow, and sustainability. These forward-thinking initiatives have streamlined the Board agenda process and modernized the Form 700 filing system, significantly improving efficiency, transparency, and accessibility across the Agency.
Denise’s passion for her work at IEUA is deeply rooted in her lifelong commitment to public service and her genuine desire to make a positive impact on the community she calls home. Her dedication to excellence and her mission to serve further strengthen IEUA’s commitment to providing essential services and fostering a positive impact on the community.
Dedication and inspiring leadership have had a profound impact on her colleagues and the organization, reflected in her continued growth and recognition within IEUA. This experience reinforces her belief in the value of professional development and its positive influence on individuals and the organization.
Alyson Piguee
Director of External and Government Affairs
Alyson Piguee, Director of External and Government Affairs
Alyson Piguee is the Director of External & Government Affairs for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency. With a bachelor’s degree in political science from Chapman University and a master’s degree in public policy from Pepperdine University, Alyson has a passion for driving positive public policy at the grassroots level. Throughout her diverse career, Alyson has held meaningful roles in various government and public affairs positions, where she gained expertise in communication, outreach, and community and government relations.
In her current position, Alyson provides day-to-day leadership for external and government relations, leads community outreach and external communication, advocates for the Agency’s position on state and federal issues, and directs the development and administration of the Agency’s grants program. As a devoted advocate, Alyson passionately promotes the outstanding work of IEUA’s public servants who deliver high-quality water for the community and strives to educate future generations on environmental stewardship.
A notable accomplishment Alyson is proud of is her team’s work in developing the IEUA Inspection Tour series. This tour program was designed to provide partners, stakeholders, and the community an opportunity to dive deeper into IEUA’s programs and services by touring multiple facilities in a fun and interactive way. The Inspection Tours have received tremendous positive feedback and serve as a unique way to engage the community and share the important work IEUA does to preserve public health and support water supply reliability.
Alyson witnesses daily the Agency’s commitment to collaboration in support of a reliable water supply future. From ensuring the development of high-quality water by collections and treatment teams to educating future generations about conservation, native habitat, and environmental stewardship, Alyson is impressed and inspired by the dedication of the IEUA team to support the essential needs of our community.
Randy Lee
Acting Director of Engineering
Randy Lee, Acting Director of Engineering
Randy Lee is the Acting Director of Engineering for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency. Randy holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in environmental and chemical engineering from the University of California, Riverside. His journey in the water industry began with his master thesis work on IEUA’s wastewater treatment plants, where he collaborated with Operations and Laboratory staff to identify the causes of effluent toxicity failures. This experience sparked his passion for the industry, leading him to work for the Agency after college. With a strong background in engineering and operations in the public sector, Randy gained valuable insight into public accounting and budgeting processes.
Previously, in his role as Director of Finance, Randy oversaw a wide range of financial functions, including Agency and Joint Powers Authority, financial record-keeping, analysis and reporting, grant compliance, treasury operations, operational and capital budgeting, and financial planning.
With his training as a process engineer, Randy is dedicated to continuously improving workflows, capital expenditures, and human capital management. His diverse experience in construction management, engineering, operations and maintenance, compliance, technical services, and finance and accounting allows him to contribute to various departments, supporting the continuous growth and success of IEUA.
Randy Lee finds inspiration in the opportunity to harness his profound passion for efficiency across a diverse spectrum of challenges. His extensive background across multiple departments, including his significant role in leading the Operations and Maintenance division for many years has shown him the importance of fostering inter-department communication and teamwork.
Lucia Diaz
Acting Director of Finance
Lucia Diaz, Acting Director of Finance
Lucia Diaz is the Acting Director of Finance for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA/Agency), bringing in nearly two decades of experience in water and wastewater utilities. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with concentration in Business Economics and Finance from the California State University, San Bernardino and Master of Business Administration with concentration in Public Administration and Human Resources Management from the University of Phoenix. She has complemented her formal education with extensive professional development in utility management, regulatory compliance, and leadership. She is actively engaged at the State level through the California Water Environment Association, where she serves on the Board of Directors and contributes best practices to advancing industry.
She began her career at IEUA in engineering, construction coordination, and financial support roles, building a strong foundation across capital delivery, operations, and fiscal management. Most recently, she oversaw Facilities Management, Sewer Collection Systems, Recycled Water, and Groundwater Recharge.
As Acting Director of Finance, Lucia currently leads Finance, Accounting, and Contracts & Procurement providing leadership and strategic oversight of each of these functions during a period of significant organizational and systems change. She focuses on maintaining financial integrity, ensuring operational continuity, and positioning the Agency for long-term fiscal sustainability. Additionally, she oversees Agency-wide budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning; leads ownership of multi-year rate studies and long-term financial modeling; and advises senior leadership and the Board on financial risks, trends, and strategic trade-offs. Across all functions, she ensures financial governance, transparency, and decision-making remain strong as IEUA navigates change, growth, and long-term strategic investments.
Two key accomplishments that Lucia values during her tenure at IEUA are her involvement with the Chino Creek Wetlands & Educational Park construction and the Agency’s Regional Mutual Aid Partnership Program. Early in her career, she managed the construction and implementation of the Chino Creek Wetlands & Educational Park, including launching the Water Discovery Program, helping connect major infrastructure investment with environmental restoration and community education. More recently, she led the development and formalization of IEUA’s Regional Mutual Aid Partnership Program, transforming informal coordination into a recognized regional model for emergency response, regulatory compliance, and workforce collaboration. Together, these efforts reflect her commitment to delivering projects that strengthen resilience, advance industry practice, and provide lasting value to both the Agency and the community.
Lucia has a passion for her work as it directly protects public health, the environment, and the communities served often in ways people never see but always rely on. She shares that this responsibility aligns closely with her personal values around service, accountability, and people-centered leadership.
Lucia’s most memorable experiences at IEUA stem from seeing how work comes together during real-world events, whether responding to a regional sewer spill, supporting a partner agency through mutual aid, or opening a project to the public that had been years in the making. In those moments, she witnessed the direct connection between preparation, teamwork, and public trust. She believes strong organizations are built by investing in both systems and people developing teams, strengthening collaboration, and leaving things better than she found them.
Kelsey Kenz
Acting Director of Human Resources
Kelsey Kenz, Acting Director of Human Resources
Kelsey Kenz is the Acting Director of Human Resources for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency, bringing experience from municipal government and higher education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Western Governors University.
As Acting Director of Human Resources, Kelsey leads the Agency’s full human capital strategy, overseeing talent acquisition, workforce planning, employee and labor relations, classification and compensation, benefits, safety programs, and organizational development. She provides strategic guidance to executive leadership and the Board, ensuring compliance with all employment and safety regulations, and drives initiatives that strengthen culture, engagement, and workforce readiness.
At IEUA, Kelsey is committed to developing a strong workforce that keeps our water and wastewater systems safe, resilient, and responsive. She is driven by public‑service work that connects people practices to the delivery of essential services. Her experience has shaped her focus on building effective, people‑centered systems that support both employees and the Agency’s mission.
A key accomplishment Kelsey values is helping reenergize and advance several major IEUA HR initiatives through strong collaboration and teamwork. These efforts include the Agency’s first Workforce Development Plan, the Classification & Compensation Study, a comprehensive update of the Personnel Policies, and the implementation of a modernized, Agency‑wide performance management system. Kelsey views these projects as foundational to building a stronger, more agile, and future‑ready Agency, and she credits the progress made to the dedication and talent of the HR team.
One of Kelsey’s most memorable experiences at IEUA was seeing hundreds of community members attend the 75th Anniversary and Career Fair, many discovering water and wastewater careers for the first time. She was especially moved watching candidates participate in mock interviews with hiring managers and leave feeling more confident and prepared. Knowing the Agency helped open doors, build skills, and strengthen the local talent pipeline reinforced for Kelsey why this work matters. She is inspired every day by the chance to help build a workplace where people feel heard, developed, and empowered.
Don Hamlett
Director of Information Technology
Don Hamlett, Director of Information Technology
Don Hamlett is the Director of Information Technology for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency. Equipped with a bachelor’s degree in information systems from the University of Redlands and a passion for driving operational efficiency and business processes through innovative technology, Don’s expertise in operational and information technology has prepared him to lead a modern converged technology team, driving the delivery of innovative solutions to support the Agency’s operational and business processes.
One of Don’s notable accomplishments includes implementing AI-driven business process automation, revolutionizing workflows and boosting efficiency across the organization. He has also championed advanced automation and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) technology, enhancing IEUA’s commitment to operational excellence and innovation in the industry. With his leadership, the Agency has embraced a remote and agile work environment, ensuring smooth operations even in challenging times.
Don’s passion for his work at IEUA stems from witnessing the Agency’s growth as a champion in environmental stewardship and regional water sustainability over the last 30 years. Being part of a diverse and talented team at IEUA has been a source of inspiration for Don, as he values the opportunities for growth and development that the Agency provides.
For Don, witnessing IEUA staff evolve into talented leaders has become a cherished experience. These rising stars, nurtured by the supportive environment at IEUA, contribute significantly to the Agency’s success and leave a profound impact on all who follow in their footsteps.
Robert Delgado
Director of Operations and Maintenance
Robert Delgado, Director of Operations and Maintenance
Robert Delgado is the Director of Operations and Maintenance for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency. He brings over two decades of expertise in Maintenance, Operations, Water Treatment, Equipment Reliability, and Asset Management. Robert’s professional journey began with a distinguished stint in the U.S. Navy. Following his military service, he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Pepperdine University and an Airframe and Powerplant Certification at Westwood College, marking a pivotal moment in his career transition to the petrochemical sector. During his tenure at ExxonMobil (XOM), Robert showcased versatility in roles such as Machinist, Vibration Technician, Maintenance Planner, and First-Line Supervisor. Alongside his practical experience, he holds industry-recognized certifications from the Society of Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP), the California Water Environment Association (CWEA), and the Association of Asset Management Professionals (AMP).
In his role at IEUA, Robert directs the strategic planning, organization, and program management for a spectrum of Agency-operated facilities. This portfolio encompasses water/wastewater treatment plants, groundwater recharge basins, the recycled water system, and the compost plant. Through seamless collaboration, he formulates and oversees work plans, budgets, and procedures, adeptly applying process improvement and quality management principles.
Robert’s notable accomplishments include playing a pivotal role in the success of the RP-5 Expansion Project and demonstrating leadership in the development of a Strategic Staffing Plan. His advocacy for optimal staffing levels has been instrumental in ensuring the safety and reliability of operations. In the Chino Basin, Robert’s guidance and dedication to teamwork have led to record-breaking Groundwater Recharge volumes and innovative solutions within the Recycled Water Program, delivering substantial benefits to the community.
His passion is profoundly anchored in wholeheartedly believing in our collective mission to safeguard life by prioritizing the treatment and production of high-quality water, ultimately serving the community through our work. His role brings him immense fulfillment—from the tasks he undertakes to the collaborative efforts with his colleagues, each aspect brings him joy. Volunteering and supporting the development of others seamlessly align with his personal values. In serving the community, assisting others in overcoming challenges, and meaningfully contributing to the protection of our limited resource—water.
Since joining IEUA, he has been consistently inspired by the remarkable spirit, collaboration, and support among every employee. The team’s dedication extends beyond our current roles, such as sewer system maintenance and the treatment and maintenance of assets, but also to nurturing the development of future water professionals.
Michael Hurley
Director of Planning and Resources
Michael Hurley, Director of Planning and Resources
Michael Hurley serves as the Director of Planning and Resources for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency. Bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise in water resources, Michael holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and a Master of Arts in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Southern California (USC). Additionally, he has completed advanced coursework in Finance and Law, enhancing his understanding of complex water management challenges.
During his time at USC, Michael’s directed research project on the history of California water resource development ignited his passion for the complexities of water management in the State. This experience shaped his career path, inspiring him to pursue a role in Water Resources, where he draws upon historical context to make informed decisions and solve contemporary water challenges.
Michael plays a crucial role in charting critical aspects of the long-term direction of IEUA as Director of Planning and Resources. His responsibilities span from water and wastewater facility planning to water resources planning, environmental compliance, laboratory operations, and source control. Michael is eager to contribute to significant accomplishments moving forward. He envisions making a substantial impact on the organization and the industry with his expertise and innovative approaches.
Michael’s passion for his work stems from his fascination with tackling large, complex issues and recognizing the vital role IEUA services play in the well-being of every resident in the service area. Aligning his personal values with the Agency’s mission, he is dedicated to addressing challenges like climate change and water supply reliability, contributing to the betterment of the community he serves.
Michael has been deeply inspired by the level of teamwork and selflessness displayed by Agency employees in carrying out their responsibilities. Witnessing this dedication has strengthened his commitment to furthering IEUA’s mission and ensuring a sustainable future for the region.