Senior Leadership
Shivaji Deshmukh
General Manager
Shivaji Deshmukh, General Manager
Shivaji Deshmukh, a professional engineer, is the General Manager for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency. Possessing extensive expertise in civil engineering and a passion for environmental protection, Shivaji holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in civil engineering from UCLA, specializing in reverse osmosis membranes during his academic journey.
As the General Manager, Shivaji serves IEUA by providing crucial support to the Board and representing the staff. His role involves strategic decision-making and leadership, upholding the Agency’s values, and guiding the organization towards its mission and goals.
One of Shivaji’s most notable accomplishments is his involvement in the development and operation of approximately 200,000 acre-feet per year of recycled water in Southern California. This initiative has significantly transformed the water and wastewater industries, greatly contributing to environmental sustainability and improved water resource management.
Shivaji’s passion for his work is fueled by the inspiration he draws from his colleagues and their shared commitment to serving the public through environmental protection.
Through his work at IEUA, Shivaji finds memorable experiences through the monthly New Splash events where he gets to meet new staff members. Witnessing the arrival of incoming professionals and the enthusiasm of the new workforce at IEUA inspires him and reinforces his dedication to the organization’s vision.
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
Acting Assistant General Manager
Lisa Dye, Acting Assistant General Manager
Lisa Dye is the Acting 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 Acting 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 17 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 leads and manages staff in the Board Services unit, ensuring seamless operations and compliance with laws and regulations governing public meetings, elections, campaign financing, and public records. Additionally, Denise oversees the implementation of the new Administrative Services unit to centralize administrative support throughout the Agency.
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). This forward-thinking initiative has streamlined and modernized the filing process, significantly improving efficiency for 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, resulting in several well-deserved promotions within the organization. This experience reinforces her belief in 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.
Jerry Burke
Director of Engineering
Jerry Burke, Director of Engineering
Jerry Burke is the Director of Engineering for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency. He graduated from Tennessee Tech University with a degree in Civil Engineering. During his career Jerry worked for the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, the City of Glendora as well as a private civil engineering firm.
At IEUA, Jerry focuses on empowering his team to achieve IEUA’s mission while efficiently executing projects. His Department includes the Engineering, Asset Management and Warehouse teams.
Jerry takes great pride in the Engineering Department’s numerous achievements and projects. One accomplishment is the reduction in the number of emergency repairs due to the completion of key projects, which speaks to the dedication and collaboration of the Engineering Department working with Operations & Maintenance.
Jerry’s drive for his work at IEUA is to inspire his staff to grow their skills so that they advance in their careers while providing a public service of transforming wastewater into high-quality recycled water benefiting our ratepayers.
Randy Lee
Director of Finance
Randy Lee, Director of Finance
Randy Lee is the Director of Finance 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.
As the Director of Finance, Randy oversees 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.
Randy’s notable accomplishments include successfully resolving and modernizing processes in Finance, achieving an impressive on-time invoice payment rate of approximately 85% within two months. This improvement has enhanced vendor relationships and played a pivotal role in securing a long-term chemical contract for the Agency.
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.
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.