Aragon tapped as new AGM and Chief Financial Officer

Rick Aragon has been selected as Western Municipal Water District’s new Assistant General Manager (AGM) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Aragon brings decades of experience in water management, finance, and strategic planning, having served for more than a decade as CFO at several prominent agencies, including Rancho Water in Temecula, Coachella Valley Water District in Eastern Riverside County, Central Basin Municipal Water District in Los Angeles County, and Rainbow Municipal Water District in San Diego County.

As AGM/CFO, Aragon will oversee Western Water’s financial operations, including budget development, long-term financial planning, investment and debt management, and support for critical infrastructure investments. He will also play a key role in Western Water’s upcoming four-year rate study.

“I am honored to join Western Water’s team and contribute to its mission of delivering safe, high-quality, reliable water and sewer water services,” Aragon said. “I look forward to building on Western Water’s strong financial foundation and supporting the work that benefits our community and region.”

Prior to joining Western Water, Aragon spent most of his career locally as the AGM/CFO at Rancho Water in Temecula. There, he oversaw diverse functions, including finance, customer service, IT, grants, and public outreach, and worked closely with Western Water on a number of regional issues. His career also includes serving as the senior advisor to the State of Alaska’s Public Utility Commission and in accounting roles throughout Southern California and Alaska.

Aragon succeeds Kevin Mascaro, who retired after more than 20 years of service at Western Water. Under Mascaro’s leadership, Western Water established a strong financial foundation and implemented policies that positioned it for long-term success.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rick Aragon to Western Water,” said Craig Miller, General Manager. “Rick’s expertise in financial strategy and deep understanding of the water industry will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the unique challenges of Southern California water. His leadership will help drive Western Water forward as we work to ensure a sustainable and reliable water future for our region,” said Miller.

With Aragon’s leadership, Western Water is poised to advance its mission while meeting the evolving needs of the communities it serves.