Margaret Novak was elected to the Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) Board of Directors in 2024 and represents Division 5, which includes Rancho Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch, and a portion of San Clemente.

Ms. Novak is a long-time resident of south Orange County and has over 25 years of experience in the community development and infrastructure realm. Her strong understanding of Division 5 – including the unincorporated areas – comes from serving on the Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) Ratepayer Advisory Committee, Ladera Ranch Maintenance Corporation (LARMAC) Board, Ladera Ranch Civic Council (LRCC), and South Orange County Economic Coalition (SOCEC). She also has served on the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Citizens Advisory Committee and Women’s Transportation Seminar of Orange County (WTS-OC) Board, in addition to participating in the Orange County Business Council’s (OCBC) Governmental Affairs and Infrastructure Action Committees.

As a results-oriented leader, Ms. Novak is committed to maintaining SMWD’s high standard of service and delivery of clean, reliable, and cost-effective water to ratepayers. She will continue safeguarding our District through sound policies and fiscal responsibility in support of expanded local water supply options and reduced energy-related costs.

Ms. Novak has a Bachelor of Science degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Cal Poly Pomona and is passionate about making a meaningful difference in her community.

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