WestWater Forum

As Arizona faces the dual challenges of continued growth and persistent drought, the search for sustainable water solutions has become more urgent than ever. With the state's pool of long-term, reliable water supplies dwindling, new partnerships are essential to meet the rising demand. This panel will explore the critical role of public-private collaborations in developing innovative water augmentation projects and tapping into new water sources. Join us to hear from key stakeholders about ongoing initiatives, the progress being made, and how private companies and investors can partner with public agencies to secure Arizona's water future.

As Vice President of Project Finance & Development, David spearheads Garney’s public-private partnership (P3) and private development initiatives and facilitates strategic partnerships with industry and equity partners. David is also responsible for corporate strategy and acquisitions.

David studied business finance at the University of Southern California before beginning his career in the finance world and is now based just outside of New York City. Before joining Garney, David spent 27 years at a large international bank that specializes in project finance and was a lender and financial advisor for Garney’s largest P3 project to date—the Vista Ridge Water Supply Project.

David is an expert in the funding and development of infrastructure projects and corporate finance. During the 10 years prior to joining Garney, he raised $22 billion for greenfield infrastructure projects and acquisitions.

Chris Brooks is a Senior Policy Analyst for the Central Arizona Groundwater Replenishment District (part of the Central Arizona Project), where his work since 2014 has focused on acquiring and developing renewable water supplies to meet the replenishment obligations of CAGRD. Prior to joining CAP he worked as a consultant and water policy advisor for over 20 years. He has a B.S. in Hydrology and a J.D. from the University of Arizona.

Elijah is a water resources expert whose work focuses on developing and implementing innovative water conservation programs. His work at CK Blueshift centers on creating partner relationships and strategies for BlueCommons, a first of its kind ‘Blue Bank’ focused on financing a new generation of water efficiency projects.

He has worked with municipalities, non-profits and businesses to rapidly create water-saving projects tailored to their goals and operations. He also has experience analyzing the efficacy of water markets and groundwater management organizations in the American West.

Jessica Fox is the Southwest Regional Director of WestWater Research, managing projects and business development efforts in the firm’s Phoenix office. With 15 years of dedicated experience in Arizona water policy and management, she stands at the forefront of water resource innovation in the region.

Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, New York, and a Master of Science in Sustainability from Arizona State University.

Host or Publisher WestWater Research LLC