GCRCD is governed by a volunteer Board consisting of 5 Directors. Division 9 of the California Public Resources Code provides for the Board of Directors to be elected to their positions, but because of the County of Santa Clara costs associated with biennial elections, the GCRCD Board of Directors adopted a resolution in 2004 allowing appointment by the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors. Terms coincide with General Election years, and filing deadlines for appointment are established by the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors.