MWDOC Director Randall Crane Sworn In as Orange County Representative to The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

Fountain Valley, CA (December 2, 2025) — The Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) announced that Director Randall Crane, Ph.D., was officially sworn in yesterday as MWDOC’s newest representative to The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan). Director Crane was appointed by the MWDOC Board of Directors on November 19, 2025, by unanimous vote.

Director Crane joins the Metropolitan Board at a pivotal time, as the region works to balance affordability, long-term water reliability, and evolving infrastructure needs. As Chair of MWDOC’s Administration & Finance Committee, Crane has been a consistent voice for fiscal discipline, transparent governance, and data-driven decision-making. He has pledged to carry these priorities forward in his new role at Metropolitan.

“Randy brings a rare blend of technical expertise, policy insight, and community-minded leadership to the Metropolitan Board,” said MWDOC Board President Robert R. McVicker, P.E. “His deep understanding of how water reliability intersects with housing, transportation, economic development, and quality of life will be a tremendous asset, not only for Orange County, but for the entire Southern California region.”

A UCLA Professor Emeritus of Public Policy and widely respected expert on water governance, Crane has advised the World Bank and national governments on infrastructure planning and decision-making. His research on cooperative governance, regional representation, and cost-sharing in large water systems has shaped both academic and professional practice worldwide.

“I’m fortunate to step into this role and build on the years of service Director Dick devoted to Metropolitan,” Director Crane said. “Orange County relies on a water supply that’s reliable, affordable, and sustainable — whether it comes from imported sources, local projects, or conservation. I’m looking forward to working with colleagues at Metropolitan, MWDOC, and our retail agencies to make smart investments, strengthen our climate resilience, and support the communities we all serve.”

Crane has served on the MWDOC Board of Directors since 2022, representing Division 5, which includes parts of coastal, central, and south Orange County. He has been involved in regional planning for water supplies, conservation and efficiency programs, and partnerships that promote environmental stewardship and workforce development in the water sector.

“This role is a chance to connect clear analysis with the day-to-day needs of our communities,” Crane added. “The choices we make at Metropolitan should strengthen local neighborhoods, protect ecosystems, and support a healthy regional economy. I appreciate the confidence my MWDOC colleagues have placed in me, and I’m ready to get to work.”

Director Crane succeeds outgoing Metropolitan Director Larry D. Dick, whose more than two decades of service were recognized earlier this month.

For more information about MWDOC-Metropolitan Director Randall Crane, visit mwdoc.com/leadership/randall-crane.