Public Utility District No. 1 - Commissioner District No. 2 · Clallam County

With over thirty years’ experience in the electric-utility industry, I know the industry, the players, and how things get done. Almost my entire career was spent working for public-power in power supply, transmission, or regulatory compliance. Our PUD faces a number of challenges: increasing regulatory-compliance obligations (potential rate impact: (7%), wildfire risks (?), BPA contractual issues (surcharge & Residential Exchange) (+2%), clean-building standards (?), low-water years (+2%), and the hiring and retention of highly skilled and specialized positions (?). These are just a few of the challenges that are putting upward pressure on power rates. (Note: these potential rate-impact estimates are from my back-of-the-envelope analysis). Our PUD requires commissioners focused on keeping rates as low as possible. Because of my knowledge and background, I know the difference between energy and capacity, I know what a flowgate is, and I know how BPA and the other federal agencies work. Thus, I will ‘hit-the-ground-running’ for ratepayers. If elected I plan to work directly with the GM and senior staff while formulating positions. I also pledge to do my best to keep rates as low as possible while ensuring reliable service.

Our PUD must be accountable to the people and businesses it serves. As your District 2 Commissioner, I will work to protect safe, reliable, affordable utility service and thoughtfully make transparent decisions that respect every ratepayer dollar. Customer rates cannot continue to grow 3.5% annually. For 34 years, I have led public works and infrastructure efforts in Northwest Washington and Alaska, building partnerships, improving service, and managing costs. I know how to succeed by living within a budget, maintain essential systems, communicate clearly, and plan responsibly for the future. The PUD faces rising costs, changing regulations, and a warming climate on hydroelectric power generation. We must work collaboratively with our power provider, Bonneville Power Administration, pursue grants, expand local capacity, and focus on essential priorities to strengthen resilience and hold down rate increases. This is the community my family calls home. My volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity, Clallam Mosaic, and Special Olympics reflects my commitment to service, accountability, and neighbors helping each other because we all matter. I would be honored to earn your vote and serve District 2 as your Clallam PUD Commissioner.