DC Water Board Removes CEO David Gadis Following Sewage Spill Controversy

The District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority's board of directors voted on June 6, 2026, to remove CEO David Gadis after criticism regarding his management following a January sewage spill that released over 240 million gallons of raw wastewater into the Potomac River. This decision came after a debate among mayoral candidates Janeese Lewis George and Kenyan McDuffie, where Lewis George expressed support for Gadis's removal while McDuffie stated he lacked sufficient information but believed the responsible party should be dismissed. Gadis had previously been placed on a performance improvement plan due to management concerns, and eight board members voted in favor of his removal during a closed-door meeting. The board announced that Gadis would remain in his role during a transition period while a national search for his successor is conducted. The sewage spill has been described as the largest in U.S. history, prompting investigations by the Department of Justice and congressional committees.