Al Austin, a former Long Beach city council member and current Long Beach utilities commissioner, is running for the Southern California Water Replenishment District Board of Directors, Division 3.
The nonpartisan race is on the Nov. 3 general election ballot. Three others are on the ballot: Mike Murchison, Tonia Reyes Uranga and Tracy Burns.
The Water Replenishment District manages groundwater supplies for communities across southern Los Angeles County. Austin said the district "plays a critical role in protecting one of our region's most valuable resources," according to Random Lengths News. He said families deserve clean, reliable water at a price they can afford.
Candidate information
- Party: Nonpartisan
- Education: bachelor of science in public administration, University of La Verne
- Current role: Member, Long Beach Board of Public Utilities Commissioners (appointed Sept. 2, 2025, by Mayor Rex Richardson; confirmed by the Long Beach City Council on Sept. 16, 2025)
- Professional role: Political and legislative director, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 57, where Austin said he is responsible for over 35,000 public service workers across California
Experience and public service
Austin served twelve years on the Long Beach City Council representing District 8. During that time he chaired the Budget Oversight Committee. He also helped establish the city's ethics commission and independent redistricting commission, according to Random Lengths News.
His labor roots run deep. His career began as a UAW aerospace worker at McDonnell Douglas, now part of Boeing. He later served as a district field representative for State Senator Kevin Murray and as campaign director for the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, according to the Long Beach Utilities website.
Austin also served on the board of directors of the Gateway Cities Council of Governments and with the League of California Cities.
On the issues
Water policy: Austin said his priorities on the water replenishment district board include protecting local groundwater supplies, responsibly managing taxpayer and ratepayer dollars, investing in reliable water infrastructure, preparing for future droughts and climate challenges, and strengthening partnerships that secure Southern California's long-term water future.
"Our community deserves leaders who understand how to balance fiscal responsibility with long-term investments that strengthen our communities," Austin said, according to Random Lengths News.
Candidate positions and priorities attributed to Austin are based on his campaign website and statements reported by Random Lengths News.
