Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced several appointments and reappointments across various state boards and commissions. These positions involve key roles in the California High-Speed Rail Authority, State Water Resources Control Board, California Water Commission, and the California Exposition and State Fair Board of Directors.

Peter Whippy from Alamo has been appointed as Chief of External Affairs at the California High-Speed Rail Authority. Whippy previously served as Communications Director for the United States Committee on House Administration from 2019 to 2023. His role does not require Senate confirmation, and he will receive a compensation of $170,004.

E. Joaquin Esquivel has been reappointed to the State Water Resources Control Board, where he has served since 2017. His previous experience includes serving as Assistant Secretary for Federal Water Policy at the California Natural Resources Agency from 2015 to 2017. This position requires Senate confirmation with a compensation of $186,588.

Nichole Morgan will continue her service on the State Water Resources Control Board after being reappointed. She has held multiple roles within the board since 2009 and was initially appointed in 2021. Her position also requires Senate confirmation with a compensation of $180,840.

Jose Solorio is set to continue his tenure at the California Water Commission following his reappointment. Solorio's background includes roles such as Director of External Affairs and Business Development for California American Water since 2024. His position requires Senate confirmation with a compensation of $100 per diem.

Alexandre Makler has been reappointed to the California Water Commission where he has served since 2020. Makler is currently Executive Vice President, West for Calpine Corporation. Like Solorio's role, this position requires Senate confirmation with a compensation of $100 per diem.

Kimberly “Kim” Craig will remain on the California Exposition and State Fair Board of Directors after her reappointment. Craig is a Full Partner at ARC Strategies since 2018 and her role requires Senate confirmation but carries no compensation.

Willie Pelote continues his service on the same board following his reappointment. Pelote runs Pelote Strategic Advisors and previously worked as Chief Principal Consultant at the California State Assembly from 2015 to 2016. This position also requires Senate confirmation without any associated compensation.

These appointments reflect Governor Newsom's ongoing efforts to fill critical roles within state agencies with experienced individuals across various sectors.