Bartkiewicz, Kronick & Shanahan (BKS), a premier California law firm specializing in water law, public agency, and natural resources, is proud to announce the appointment of Kristin Peer and Doug Coty as principals of the firm, effective January 1, 2024. These appointments mark a significant enhancement to the firm’s leadership and its commitment to addressing the complex legal challenges in water and public agency law. Kristin Peer brings to the firm over 15 years of distinguished experience in environmental law, with a focus on water law and policy. Before her tenure at BKS, Peer served in key positions within the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), including Deputy Secretary and Special Counsel for Water Policy appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom, and Assistant General Counsel under Governor Jerry Brown. Her vast experience includes advising on critical water challenges, wildfire resilience, and high-stakes litigation, making her a formidable leader in the environmental sector. Peer’s contributions to the legal community were further recognized through her appointment to the Board of Directors of the Klamath River Renewal Corporation (KRRC) by Governor Newsom. Doug Coty, joining BKS as Of Counsel in July 2022 before his elevation to principal, has an extensive background in public agency law. His expertise spans a broad range of issues including water rights, public agency governance, environmental law, and regulatory compliance. Coty currently serves as General Counsel to several significant California water districts and has been a pivotal figure in legislative and regulatory matters affecting water and wastewater management. In praising the new principals, BKS firm president Andrew Ramos stated, 'We are immensely proud to welcome Kristin and Doug as principals of our firm. Kristin’s unparalleled expertise in water law and policy, combined with Doug’s comprehensive understanding of public agency law, position BKS at the forefront of water and public law practice. Their dedication to excellence and their visionary leadership are invaluable assets to our team, our clients, and the communities we serve.' The elevation of Kristin Peer and Doug Coty underscore BKS’s commitment to providing exceptional legal services and to fostering sustainable solutions to the environmental and public agency challenges facing California and beyond. Their leadership will be instrumental in guiding the firm's future direction and in reinforcing BKS’s reputation as a leader in water and public agency law.