Board Member Bios
David Upchurch, President of the Board
Bio Coming Soon...
Jennifer Butler, Secretary of the Board
Director Jennifer Butler, has 12 years’ experience working in the industrial construction industry. She is certified in Facility Planning. Ms. Butler has worked with both commercial and industrial facilities specializing in mechanical and energy solutions. Additionally, Ms. Butler has worked in establishing maintenance/ service programs as well as assisting in developing new maintenance scheduling software. Ms. Butler has worked with a variety of service technicians in developing sustainable operating practices that reduce costs from the General Operating Fund. She is passionate about operating efficiency and discovering sustainable practices.
Max Wilmarth, Director
Director Max Wilmarth is a native of Graton and a geologist with 20 years’ professional experience in geological investigations, including 3 years in environmental cleanups in Sonoma County and 13 years in the geothermal energy industry. He has worked on a wide range of geothermal infrastructure projects on five continents and in numerous countries.
Carol Benfell, Director
Director Carol Benfell was a reporter for The Press Democrat for 18 years, covering everything from business to local politics to the environment. Prior to that, she covered a variety of beats for The Tribune in Oakland, CA, including the courts and a stint in Washington DC reporting on Congress. She has lived in Graton for 30 years, has one son and four stepchildren.