Angels Camp, CA — June 18, 2025 — After five years of dedicated leadership, Joel Metzger has announced his resignation as General Manager of the Utica Water and Power Authority (Utica), effective July 13, 2025. Metzger has accepted a senior leadership position at the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), where he will serve as Deputy Director, Statewide Water Resources Planning and Enterprise Project Management.

Since joining Utica in 2020, Metzger has led the agency through one of the most pivotal periods in its history. Under his leadership, Utica has secured millions in state and federal funding, advanced major capital improvement projects, strengthened regulatory partnerships, and led Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) exemption and license surrender efforts for Utica’s two hydropower facilities—expected to save the community millions if approved by the Commission in Washington D.C. He has also spearheaded prudent financial stewardship, long-term planning, and effective collaboration at the local, state, and national levels.

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as Utica’s General Manager,” said Metzger. “This team has accomplished extraordinary things in service of our communities—protecting our water supply, improving infrastructure, and preparing for a more resilient future. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together.”

In his new role at DWR, Metzger will lead the division updating California’s Water Plan, oversee enterprise project delivery, and support the state’s efforts to address challenges such as extreme drought, floods, and aging infrastructure.

Utica’s Board chair expressed deep gratitude for Metzger’s service.

“Joel’s vision, professionalism, and commitment to public service have left a lasting impact on the communities Utica serves,” said Caroline Schirato, Board Chair. “He has raised Utica’s profile at the state and national level, and his impact on Utica and the broader community will be felt for years to come. We wish him every success in this next chapter and know he will continue to be a force for good in California water management.”

The Utica Board is initiating a transition plan to ensure continuity of leadership and will announce next steps in the coming weeks.

For media inquiries, please contact: Joel Metzger, General Manager, joelm@uticawater.com, (209) 736-9419.