Ombudsman
In the spring of 2006, the Truckee Meadows Water Authority (TMWA) Board of Directors created a new Ombudsman position. The position was formed to provide an additional avenue of assistance for customers who desire some extra help in working through customer service processes, or in the event that all normal customer service options were unable to provide a satisfactory resolution. In November, Reno resident, Don Rhoden, was chosen as TMWA's new Ombudsman.
In his newly appointed role as Ombudsman, Don Rhoden says that he is most excited about working with and helping TMWA customers.
"I want to take a proactive role and get customers' input regarding TMWA processes," he said.
Before launching his own consulting business, Don worked at Sierra Pacific Power Company (SPPC) for more than 17 years. While at SPPC he held various positions within the organization, including spearheading the sale of the water division, ultimately to TMWA. After the sale in June of 2001, Don went into the customer service and billing division at SPPC, which provided him with useful background for his current role at TMWA.
"I think that my past experience and familiarity with the Water Authority will make a huge difference in how I am able to work with customers," he said.
Don has been married for 15 years to Patty, who works at Washoe Medical Center South Meadows. They enjoy traveling, water-skiing and eating the gourmet meals that Don prepares. Although born and raised in the Monterey Bay area, he has lived in Reno for the past 25 years.
"In that time, I have watched this community grow and mature," he said. "One thing that remains constant is that water is a precious and scarce resource that is vital to our community. It is a privilege for me to be a part of an organization that provides such a critical service to all of us."
Don Rhoden can be contacted directly at 848-0813.
