The San Antonio Water System (SAWS) bestowed a hefty $133,254.06 bonus on its CEO Robert Puente, a show of solid approval for his stewardship during trying times. Puente's incentive comes as part of a deferred compensation package from 2021 and is a slice of the $593,838 salary pie he currently enjoys after last year's 15% raise, as the San Antonio Report disclosed.

However, the SAWS chief must remain at his post for another year before dipping into the bonus pool. Back in 2022, he netted about $100,000, and in the preceding year, $94,000. SAWS Spokeswoman Anne Hayden revealed salary and bonus recommendations came on the heels of assessments by consultants from Williams Consulting Partners and OneDigital/Paradox, the San Antonio Report said.

The utility's board trusts that Puente’s skillful navigation through 2023's severe drought and subsequent infrastructure strains justify the payout. "We think he had a very successful year," SAWS Chairwoman Jelynne LeBlanc Jamison lauded, "It was a tough year for us. With all of the drought issues and the significant main breaks and trying to be responsive and have our customers understand the severity of the issues. It was tough and even with all of that, the employees really came together and they responded and supported Mr. Puente," as told to the San Antonio Report.

Puente’s response was of humble gratitude for the vote of confidence from his team and board members. "It always feels great to be recognized by your bosses that you’re doing a good job," he expressed post-board meeting, as per the San Antonio Report. “It truly is a matter of getting the right team in place.” Puente has helmed SAWS since 2008, following his stint in the Texas House of Representatives and has been at the center of its evolving storyline, with the recent bonus pointing to yet another chapter of leadership and monetary recognition.