For most of Highlands Ranch Water’s history, the district’s board of directors reflected the community’s development roots. Like many master-planned communities, the district, then known as Centennial Water and Sanitation District, was initially governed by representatives associated with the community’s developer.

That began to change in 2022.

Following the 2020 inclusion election, which made residents throughout Highlands Ranch and Solstice eligible to serve on the board, the district held its first board of directors election on May 3, 2022.

One year later the transition was complete.

Three seats were up for election on May 2, 2023. With those three seats joining the two filled the previous year, Highlands Ranch Water had, for the first time in our history, a five-member board of directors elected from the community.

It was an important milestone for a community that had evolved significantly since the district was established in 1981. As Highlands Ranch approached buildout, governance of its water and wastewater provider transitioned from the community’s developer to the residents it serves.

Today, Highlands Ranch Water continues to be governed by a five-member board of directors elected by eligible voters within the district. Directors serve staggered four-year terms, providing continuity while giving the community a direct role in selecting the people who oversee the district.

The board makes decisions that directly affect customers and the future of the district, including adopting the annual budget, setting water and wastewater rates, establishing policies and overseeing investments in the infrastructure and water supplies needed to serve the community.

The next chapter: May 4, 2027

The next opportunity for residents to participate in this now-established tradition of community governance is approaching. Highlands Ranch Water will hold its next board of directors election on May 4, 2027, with three of the five board seats up for election.

Residents can participate by learning about the candidates and issues, voting in the election or considering serving the community as a member of the board of directors.

The elections of 2022 and 2023 marked the transition to resident leadership. The 2027 election continues that legacy, giving the community another opportunity to help shape the future of its water and wastewater provider.

Learn more about the May 4, 2027 election, including voter eligibility, important dates and information about running for the board of directors, on the election page of our website.