Water Board Ousts Robles

Former South Gate Treasurer Albert Robles was removed from the board of a local water district Monday after his fellow directors unanimously declared that he had abandoned his elected office.

Robles, who was one of five directors of the Central Basin Municipal Water District, hasn’t attended a meeting since June. Board officials cited a state law that deems a public office vacant if an official ceases to discharge his duties for a period of three consecutive months.

Following the vote, board member Paul Morse took Robles’ nameplate off the dais.

Member George Cole later said that removing Robles was essential for residents to have representation on the board. The Central Basin district sells wholesale water in southeast Los Angeles County and serves 1.4 million residents.

“The board took an action that was necessary to protect the interests of the district, and to make sure the communities of [Robles’ district] had a voice in the policies and issues that we’re faced with,” Cole said.

The move means that Robles, once one of the most powerful political figures in southeast Los Angeles County, no longer holds a public office.

Robles, whose district covers a broad swath of southeast Los Angeles County including South Gate and Lynwood, can contest the board’s action. He was not available for comment.

Some of Robles’ critics speculate that his legal troubles have caused him to drop out of public life. Robles was indicted in July on five felony conspiracy counts.

Earlier this year, he was recalled from his treasurer’s post by South Gate voters in a campaign that accused him of corruption. Robles’ former administration is under investigation by local and federal authorities.

“This is good for everybody,” said Sam Echols, a South Gate resident who backed the recall. “Albert has done so much to destroy our community.”

Robles’ seven-year tenure on the board (he was reelected in 2000) was dogged by controversy. He spent $15,700 from the water agency to take acting and voice classes, as well as flying lessons and seminars by motivational guru Anthony Robbins.

His spending habits in part led fellow board members to cut back on expenses and make all reimbursements subject to board approval.

The board is expected to make a decision in the next few weeks on whether to appoint a new member or hold a special election.