Former Valley Water CEO Accused of Sexual Harassment

Independent investigation finds Rick Callender violated company policy, sent inappropriate messages to employees

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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An independent investigation has found that the former CEO of Santa Clara County's largest water supplier, Rick Callender, sexually harassed subordinate employees. The report details Callender pressuring employees to message him outside of work, sending inappropriate comments and photos, and making unwanted advances. Despite the findings, Callender was allowed to resign with a lucrative separation agreement, sparking outrage among Valley Water employees.

Why it matters

The allegations against Callender raise serious concerns about abuse of power and the board's handling of the situation. As the head of a major public agency, Callender's alleged misconduct represents a breach of trust with employees and the community. The board's decision to retain Callender as a special advisor despite the investigation's findings has further eroded confidence in the agency's leadership.

The details

The investigation by law firm Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo found that Callender violated Valley Water policy by sending inappropriate messages to employees, including comments about their hygiene and sexual history, as well as a photo of his clothed lap. Callender also allegedly pressured employees into certain roles and threatened to fire them. Investigators said Callender gave 'evasive, argumentative, and sarcastic answers' and that his explanations 'defied reasonable interpretation'.

  • Callender had been on leave since December 2024.
  • Callender resigned on February 20, 2026.
  • The investigation report was dated September 10, 2025.

The players

Rick Callender

The former CEO of Valley Water, Santa Clara County's largest water supplier, who was accused of sexually harassing subordinate employees.

Tony Estremera

The chair of Valley Water's board of directors, who praised Callender's leadership despite the investigation's findings and approved a lucrative separation agreement for him.

Rebecca Eisenberg

A Valley Water board director who was the lone vote against Callender's separation agreement, expressing doubts about the board's handling of the situation.

Salam Baqleh

A representative for the Valley Water Employees Association, the agency's employee union, who said workers remain fearful of retaliation and will protest the board's actions.

Sean Allen

The president of the NAACP of San Jose/Silicon Valley, who has defended Callender and accused the investigation of being biased against Black leaders.

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What they’re saying

“The victims still have not heard a word of apology from the board of directors, who are responsible for hiring this man.”

— Salam Baqleh, Representative, Valley Water Employees Association (San José Spotlight)

“This is disgusting. The board should be ashamed. We knew this is what he was like — we were his coworkers, it was no secret. It's difficult to believe that you all did not know. … This is a slap in the face to both employees and taxpayers, especially those who came forward as victims of abuse.”

— Anonymous Valley Water employee (San José Spotlight)

“On behalf of the Board, I want to acknowledge the three complainants and what they've been through. I'm sorry that this happened to you under our watch. We do not condone this behavior from ANY employee, regardless of title or rank.”

— Tony Estremera, Board Chair, Valley Water (Email to Valley Water employees)

What’s next

The Valley Water board of directors will vote again on Callender's separation agreement in light of the investigation's findings, and employees have vowed to attend the board's March 10 meeting to protest the board's handling of the situation.

The takeaway

The allegations against former Valley Water CEO Rick Callender and the board's response have eroded trust in the agency's leadership and raised serious questions about the handling of sexual harassment claims and the use of public funds. This case highlights the need for stronger accountability and transparency measures to protect employees and the public's interest.