Mulroy set the bar high for successor

Dennis Hugh, Las Vegas

Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2013 | 2:01 a.m.

I hope John Entsminger has some big feet. Whoever takes over as general manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority will have big shoes to fill.

I am a 65-year-old native of Las Vegas. I remember when my dad got upset that we had to have water meters. I was a consulting engineer for 40 years in Nevada. I acted as Ely city engineer for nearly 12 years, so I know the interests and emotions of Northern Nevada.

I share their concerns, because “Home Means Nevada” to me. I was threatened by a few old friends when they thought I was working for SNWA to “steal their water” back in the 1980s. I have been involved with the Colorado River Water Users Association for 20 years, and I have seen the respect that Pat Mulroy has from water leaders in the seven Basin States and the federal folks.

I watched in amazement as water overflowed at Hoover Dam and continue to watch with fear as the lake level has dropped. Since she took the job, Mulroy has worked diligently to respond to the direction of the elected officials in Clark County for 20 years: “Make sure we do not run out of water.”

She has kept the rural water project going as a last resort, in part because the water leaders in the other Basin States first ask, “What are you doing in Nevada, before you want our water?”

Mulroy has given 100 percent. I have seen the same dedication in her activities at her church. Her husband, Bob, and I grew up on 17th Street. I am happy he is getting the wish that he conveyed to me the last time we spoke: “I want my wife back.”

I just hope we continue to have someone who commands respect and can make sure water always flows from our taps.