In Memoriam: Jonas Minton, True Friend of the Firm
September 12, 2022Jonas Minton, Director of the Planning and Conservation League’s (PCL) water program for two decades, passed away suddenly on June 22. Jonas worked tirelessly on water issues in California, applying thoughtful, methodical pressure to help build science-driven consensus on water use in the Delta, the Monterey Peninsula, and elsewhere. His work brought transparency and open communication to contentious water issues.
His colleagues at PCL wrote that “when polarization drove people apart, Jonas brought stakeholders together. He constantly sought ways, both big and small, to solve problems and make the world a better place.”
Fran Layton, Richard Taylor, Gabe Ross, Edward Schexnayder, and several other attorneys at Shute, Mihaly & Weinberger worked closely with Jonas over the years. Gabe said that “in addition to his many contributions to progress in the fields of water, drought, and climate change, he was eternally cheerful and a true friend to us at SMW.” PCL has set up a Jonas Minton Water Warrior Fund to continue his critically important work of creating sustainable water resources for all Californians and building a resilient water future in the midst of the climate crisis.