Paskett, Lowenthall appointed to California High-Speed Rail Authority

The California State Senate Rules Committee has appointed Lorraine Paskett to the California High-Speed Rail Authority's (CHSRA) board.

Paskett fills a vacancy left by former vice-chair Jim Hartnett, who stepped down in March 2015 to become general manager and chief executive officer of the San Mateo County Transit District.

Paskett is an attorney and CEO of Cambridge LCF Group and Paskett Winery. She has more than 25 years of experience on water, energy and environmental issues. She also serves on the board of the Metropolitan Water District of Souther California.

Also appointed to the CHSRA's board is Bonnie Lowenthal, who succeeds Vice-Chair Thea Selby.

Lowenthal previously served as chair of the California State Assembly Committee on Transportation. She became an ex-officio member of the California Transportation Commission, where she oversaw public investment in highway, passenger rail and transportation projects, CHSRA officials said. She termed out of the Assembly in 2014.