BOARD PRESIDENT DAVE TAMAYO: POWERING WARD 6 WITH EXPERIENCE AND INTEGRITY
When I first ran for the SMUD Board, I set out with two clear goals: to accelerate our transition to zero carbon and to ensure that transition didn't leave our most vulnerable neighborhoods behind.
As we look toward 2026 and beyond, those goals are promises made and promises kept.
Under my leadership, SMUD adopted the most ambitious clean energy plan in the nation: the 2030 Zero Carbon Plan. We aren't just talking about a green future; we are building it right now through massive investments in wind, solar, and grid modernization.
But a green future must be an affordable one. While state-wide energy costs skyrocket, I have fought to keep SMUD’s rates among the lowest in California—consistently 50% lower than PG&E. That is money that stays in your pocket and in our local economy.
Leading for Ward 6 From Oak Park to Meadowview, and Valley Hi to the South Sacramento corridor, I am proud to represent the diverse heart of our region. Whether it’s convening SMUD’s first Environmental Justice workshop or expanding our Community Impact Programs, my focus remains on equity.
Our community understands that our histories are tied together—from our rich Filipino and Hispanic heritage to our shared vision for a healthier environment. I am running for re-election to ensure SMUD remains a national leader that works for everyone.
Join the team. Let’s finish the job.
I’m proud to be your SMUD Board Member - if you would still like to support my re-election, send me a note, endorse me, or make a contribution to my campaign! Thank you so much for your support.
Join #TeamTamayo and help re-elect Dave to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District Board of Directors!
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"Dave Tamayo has worked hard for decades to improve the quality of life in Sacramento. He’s a strong voice for the community and the environment on the SMUD Board and I’m honored to support his reelection."
Sacramento City Councilmember Mai Vang
"Dave has my full support as he runs for re-election to the SMUD Board - he has been an effective leader in Sacramento for decades and has tirelessly worked to make sure SMUD is on the leading edge of addressing climate change, reducing its carbon footprint, and is focusing its investments to ensure that no part of our community is left behind."
Congresswoman Doris Matsui
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OUR SMUD BOARD MEMBER: Dave’s a scientist, public servant, and south sacramento community leader
A Sacramento resident since 1989, Dave quickly found his home in the communities of South Sacramento and began to speak up on behalf of his neighborhood. He led successful efforts to establish science programs and gardens in local schools, brought a brand-new playground to Fruitridge Manor, and co-founded his neighborhood association.
And, for more than two decades, Dave has helped protect our most environmentally sensitive regions as an Environmental Specialist for Sacramento County. His work as a SMUD Board Member just scratches the surface — click below to get to know Dave.
making sure smud serves the people
Dave Tamayo has represented the communities of Ward 6, including Meadowview, Oak Park, Valley Hi, Fruitridge Manor, and Parkway, on SMUD’s Board of Directors since 2014. He has ensured that our community-owned electrical utility continues to deliver reliable power at low cost, while working for a bright green future.
Our electricity rates are among the lowest in California — and they must stay that way to preserve affordability.
We must continue to be one of the most reliable energy systems in the country.
Our utility district needs to continue to take a leading role in solving the climate change crisis by maintaining its nationally-recognized forward-thinking environmental stewardship, green energy, smart grid, and energy efficiency policy.
All parts of the community must have an equitable opportunity to participate in SMUD’s green energy and conservation programs.
SMUD must work strategically with public agencies and private institutions to support and develop a vibrant regional economy.