To quote the late comedian Joan Rivers, “Can we talk?” I’m serious. The Public Service Commission has scheduled a number of public comment hearings over the next few months, and we really want to hear what you have to say.
Several large utilities recently filed cases that could seriously affect your rates. Lots of people write to us or file their comments online, and we read every single one. But there is something special about being able to meet someone face-to-face and hear their voice. That kind of connection is special. That’s why Commissioners Larrick and Raney and I will travel all over the state all summer and into the fall to hear from you personally.
To get the most out of a public comment hearing, it helps if you understand what it is – and what it isn’t. This is not the time to demand answers from the utility company or the Public Service Commission. However, utility representatives will be available after the hearing to answer questions. It is not an opportunity for open debate. A public comment hearing has one purpose only, and its name says it all. This is your chance to tell the Commission, in person, how you believe the case will affect you and your family and what you would like us to consider when making a decision.
If you have an interesting suggestion about how we could make things more equitable, we would love to hear it. I’ve heard a number of truly intriguing recommendations from people at these hearings.
Our goal is to get as much feedback from the public as possible at public comment hearings. Your input is a critical element in our decision-making process, so the more people we hear from, the better. Most of our public comment hearings are well attended. We’ve had a few recently that were standing room only. But there have also been occasions when almost no one showed up. It is so disappointing to drive two or three hours and have no one come.
Here are a few tips to make the most of your time when speaking at a public comment hearing. First, either make notes or write out your comments. This will help you make sure you have included all the points you want to make and that you haven’t left out anything important. Also, remember that the court reporter is recording what you say for the official record, so please speak clearly.
I look forward to seeing and hearing from you soon.
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