Incumbent Judy Dietch and newcomers Geoff English and David LaCaro were the leaders among seven candidates vying for seats on the Templeton Community Services District board of directors — slated to tackle major water and sewer decisions in the coming months.

The current board decided this year to disconnect Templeton from Paso Robles’ sewer treatment plant, which needs a costly upgrade that the district would partly fund.

Leaders also have to find a way to pay for the district’s share in the Nacimiento Water Project now that the sale of new water meters, mostly to new construction, has dwindled during the recession.

Dietch, who has served on the district’s board for 12 years, said her historical perspective would provide continuity for ongoing projects, namely water and fiscal issues.

English, a city maintenance services director who oversees public works systems, wanted to advocate for fiscal responsibility and build public participation. LaCaro, a water quality scientist, believes his career experiences in water resource protection will help lead Templeton.

Some residents alluded this summer to a divide among the current district board members. Several candidates have pledged to be team players and work toward building consensus.

Reach Tonya Strickland at 781-7858. Stay updated by following @tstrickland on Twitter.