Susan Trager, an attorney who specialized in water law and served on the board and commission of the Laguna Beach County Water District for 11 years, passed away on March 22.
The longtime Laguna Beach resident was passionate about her profession and was proud to be involved with shaping local and statewide water issues. Trager was the first woman to serve on the water district’s board.
Known for her flamboyant personality, Trager was never one to back down from a fight, said Renae Hinchey, the water district’s general manager. “She was confident, tenacious, and persistent in making sure that Laguna Beach’s water concerns were represented. She was the type of woman who, when she dedicated herself to something, really fought for what she believed in,” Hinchey said.
Trager served on four commission oversight committees and worked tirelessly to ensure a reliable water supply for local residents, who are solely dependent on imported supplies. She championed the district’s quest to resume its groundwater rights in the Santa Ana Basin. Her knowledge of government regulatory requirements and personal relationships with colleagues were assets to the district.
District commission chairman Bruce Scherer said her death leaves a void felt throughout the water industry. “We will miss her greatly and join her family, friends, and colleagues in mourning her passing.”
Private services will be held in Connecticut. The district plans a celebration of Trager’s life in May at a date still to be determined.
