Bakersfield Appointed New Water Department Director
City leaders have promoted Daniel Maldonado to oversee the local water department following a long recruitment process.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in People
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Bakersfield has officially appointed Daniel Maldonado as the new director of the city's water department. The promotion follows the retirement of former director Kris Budak, who stepped down in July 2026.
Why it matters
The appointment ensures leadership continuity as the city prepares to launch several large-scale projects focused on water and wastewater infrastructure. Maldonado was selected after a monthslong recruitment effort to lead the city's vital water resources.
The city water department managed over 2 million acre-feet of water in 2023. This appointment follows the three-year tenure of the outgoing director.
The players
Daniel Maldonado
He is the newly appointed director of the Bakersfield water department and a lifelong city resident.
Kris Budak
He served as the director of the Bakersfield water department for three years before retiring in 2026.
The details
Maldonado is a lifelong resident of Bakersfield who previously served as the assistant water director. During his tenure, he played a key role in the modernization of the Kern River Backup Weir.
Timeline
In 2023, the department managed 2 million acre-feet of water.
The Kern River Backup Weir underwent modernization in 2025.
Kris Budak retired as the city water director in July 2026.
The city announced the appointment of Daniel Maldonado on September 23, 2026.
Market Landscape
The appointment aligns with the city's ongoing strategic management goals for the Kern River Backup Weir infrastructure. This leadership shift ensures that technical expertise remains at the forefront of the city's long-term utility infrastructure strategy.
Residents can expect the new leadership to oversee upcoming large-scale water and wastewater projects aimed at improving local utility infrastructure. These efforts are part of the city's plan to manage regional water resources effectively in the coming years.
The takeaway
Selecting a career professional from within the existing department provides stability for upcoming infrastructure modernization. Residents will likely see these projects move forward as part of the city's long-term environmental and utility planning efforts.
Further reading
For more information on local leadership changes, visit People.
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