Board of Directors Applicant Information Center

Del-Co Water

Del-Co Water is member-owned; your voice helps lead the way. Three of the nine seats on the Del-Co Water Board of Directors are up for election in 2026. Eligible members may apply for consideration to appear on the ballot.  Board Candidate Applications are open until February 27, 2026.  

2026 Key Dates

  • Call for Nominations: January & February
  • Application Deadline: February 27th
  • Application Review: March 2nd – March 13th
  • Interviews: March 16th – April 17th
  • Final Slate Approved: May 20th
  • Publish Ballot: June 1st
  • Mail Invite: June 11th
  • Annual Meeting: July 16th  

About Del-Co Water

Del-Co Water is a member-owned, non-profit cooperative founded in 1969 to provide a reliable supply of high-quality drinking water to a rapidly growing region of central Ohio. What began with a single treatment plant, one elevated tank, and 200 miles of pipe has grown into one of Ohio’s largest public water systems, serving more than 56,000 customers across eight counties. 

 

Today, Del-Co operates four treatment facilities with a combined design capacity of 45 million gallons per day, supported by 32 elevated water towers, more than 2,200 miles of waterline, and a service area spanning 830 square miles. Our water comes from both surface and groundwater sources, including the Olentangy and Scioto Rivers, Alum Creek, Doutt Reservoir, and a wellfield in Morrow and Knox Counties. A unique series of up-ground reservoirs totaling 4.1 billion gallons of storage helps secure supply during dry periods and enhances long-term resiliency. 

 

As an Ohio EPA-regulated public water supplier (PWS-2101412), Del-Co Water is committed to exceptional service, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship. 

 

Purpose 

We supply water, one of life’s most vital resources, enabling our members and communities to thrive. 

 

Mission 

We are a member-owned cooperative providing exceptional, affordable, and environmentally responsible water services to our growing region. 

 

Vision 

Creating a resilient and sustainable water supply for our region by being service-focused and growth-oriented. 

 

About the Board of Directors

Del-Co Water is governed by an elected nine (9) member Board of Directors.  Directors are elected to three-year terms and are limited to no more than two per township.  Of the nine members, a minimum of seven (7) directors must be residents of Delaware County, and a minimum of one (1) must be a resident of Morrow County. 

 

Responsibilities

  • Provide policy oversight and ensure adherence to the cooperative’s governing documents.
  • Set strategic direction and support long-term planning for the utility.
  • Exercise fiduciary and financial stewardship on behalf of the membership.
  • Participate in decision-making related to operations, rates, capital investments, and organizational performance.
  • Represent the interests of all Del-Co Water members objectively and impartially.

Time Commitment

Directors should expect a consistent but manageable time commitment that includes regular meetings, committee service, and periodic training or special events.  Approximate cadence: 1–2 board meetings per month + quarterly committee meetings + annual workshops/training. Average monthly time is 8 – 10 hours.  

Typical Commitments Include: 

  • Monthly Board of Directors meetings (2-3 hours)
  • Quarterly committee meetings (1 hour each, directors serve on at least two committees)
  • Annual planning sessions, retreats, or training events
  • Occasional special meetings or community-related events 

Salary & Compensation

Directors receive a salary and/or meeting stipends, along with reimbursement for approved travel or training necessary to perform their duties. Compensation levels are established by Board policy and member approval and are subject to change.  

Current Compensation Rates: 

  • Pay $412.50 per month ($4,950 per year)

Required Reading for Board of Director Applicants

Code of Regulations

CLICK HERE TO READ

Article 3: Directors and Officers 

Board composition, qualifications, elections, and vacancies. 

 Article 4: Duties of Directors 

Powers, responsibilities, and governance authority of the Board. 

 Article 5: Duties of Officers 

Roles and responsibilities of the President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. 

Board of Director Policies

CLICK HERE TO READ

Policy 104: Board of Directors Qualifications and Vacancies

Eligibility, expectations, and how vacancies are filled. 

Policy 105: Board of Directors Code of Ethics

Standards for conduct and decision-making. 

Policy 106: Board Committees

Committee structure and director participation. 

Application Process & Timeline

How the Selection Process Works

Application & Eligibility Requirements

Candidate Application Requirements

A complete application includes:

  1. Completed Statement of Candidacy
  2. Petition Form with Twenty (20 Distinct Member Signatures)
  3. Completed application form
  4. Candidate’s Resume/CV
  5. Candidate Bio (preliminary draft)

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for candidacy for the Board, you must:

  • Be a Del-Co Water member in good standing
  • Meet eligibility conditions outlined in the Code of Regulations
  • Submit a complete Board Candidate application packet
  • Submit a petition with 20 distinct member signatures
  • Participate in the mandatory interview process 

 

Application Resources & Submission