Water Code §49.056

(a) The board may employ or contract with a person to perform such services as general manager for the district as the board may from time to time specify. The board may delegate to the general manager full authority to manage and operate the affairs of the district subject only to orders of the board. (b) The board may delegate to the general manager the authority to employ all persons necessary for the proper handling of the business and operation of the district and to determine the compensation to be paid all employees other than the general manager. (c) Except as provided by Section 49.052 , a director may be employed as general manager of the district, but the compensation of a general manager who also serves as a director shall be established by the other directors.