October 21, 2025
EBMUD remembers Director Bill Patterson, longtime advocate for the East Bay
A devoted public servant for over 25 years, Patterson’s leadership shaped EBMUD’s commitment to equity, public health and environmental stewardship.
OAKLAND - It is with profound sadness that East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) acknowledges the passing today of William “Bill” Patterson – a dedicated leader, longtime public servant and unwavering champion of the East Bay community.
Bill served EBMUD with distinction, integrity, and compassion for over 25 years and was often recognized as the “Conscience of the District.” His thoughtful leadership and commitment to equity, public health, and environmental stewardship left an indelible mark on EBMUD and the communities it serves.
Bill first joined the EBMUD Board of Directors in 1997, representing Ward 6, which includes major portions of Oakland. Over his decades of service, Bill became known for his steadfast commitment to ensuring safe, high-quality water and wastewater services for East Bay residents. His dedication to public health helped drive policies for lead testing in schools and daycare centers and supported statewide efforts to phase out lead in home plumbing.
A longtime Oakland resident, Bill held numerous leadership roles on the seven-member Board, including President and Vice President, and was the first African American to serve as Board President. He also served on the Boards of the Upper Mokelumne River Watershed Authority and the Freeport Regional Water Authority, where he championed protection of the watershed and the East Bay’s water supply. His leadership was instrumental in advancing policies that prioritized infrastructure resilience, equity, workforce development and environmental stewardship.
Beyond his work at EBMUD, Bill was a civic champion in Oakland and beyond. His leadership with the Oakland NAACP and other community organizations reflected his lifelong commitment to inclusion, access, and public investment that strengthens communities.
“Bill Patterson was a devoted public servant whose exemplary leadership and thoughtful voice strengthened our Board and enhanced our ability to serve our East Bay community,” said Marguerite Young, EBMUD Board President. “His passion for people, his integrity, and his readiness to work collaboratively will be deeply missed by his colleagues, staff and the many residents whose lives he touched.”
“Bill’s legacy is woven into the fabric of EBMUD and the East Bay,” said Valerie Lewis, EBMUD Director for Ward 6. “He was a mentor, a bridge builder, a staunch believer in the power of informed decision making, and a fierce advocate for the people he served. His compassion and conviction inspired all of us to lead with heart, courage, and purpose.”
“It was truly an honor to serve alongside Bill. He brought to EBMUD a clear vision rooted in fairness, access, and service excellence,” said EBMUD General Manager Clifford Chan. “His perspective and commitment helped guide us through many of our most complex challenges. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends — and we are committed to carrying forward the values he championed.”
As EBMUD mourns Bill’s loss, the District also celebrates his extraordinary legacy. In his memory, EBMUD reaffirms its commitment to the principles he stood for: providing safe, reliable and affordable water service to all; advancing infrastructure resilience; protecting our shared natural resources; and ensuring that our communities are treated with respect, dignity and fairness.
###
The East Bay Municipal Utility District has a proud history of providing high-quality drinking water for 1.4 million customers in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. EBMUD’s wastewater system serves 740,000 customers and helps protect the ecosystem of San Francisco Bay. EBMUD is a not-for-profit public agency established in 1923.