Senator Beyer Shares: “Why CUB Matters”
Posted on November 27, 2017 by Bob Jenks
Tags, General Interest
In 2005 I had the privilege of working on behalf of consumers when Enron’s implosion resulted in a possible sale of PGE to Texas Pacific. It was fortunate for Oregon’s residential utility ratepayers that Lee Beyer, now a State Senator from Springfield, was at the helm of the Public Utility Commission (PUC). He had the wisdom and the courage to work with his colleagues on the commission, PUC staff, and community stakeholders to make the very difficult decision to reject that sale.
I have the front page of the Oregonian, beautifully framed on my wall, announcing the PUC’s decision and quoting Chair Beyer as saying, “The bottom line is the potential harms or risks to PGE customers outweighs the potential benefits.” In my 25+ years working for CUB, I believe that what the PUC did in that instance is the most courageous decision ever made by a sitting Oregon Public Utility Commission.
So, you can imagine how honored I was that Senator Beyer agreed to share his thoughts about CUB in time for #GivingTuesday. We asked him “Why CUB Matters” and here is what he said.
“I have worked with CUB in several capacities over my career as a Legislator and as the Chair of the Public Utility Commission. Throughout my time interacting with CUB I find that they can be trusted to bring accurate analysis, raise practical concerns, and offer reasonable solutions. Just as importantly, other stakeholders in the energy industry trust their work. What’s more, CUB’s consistency in examining utility rate cases and resource planning documents keeps the utilities honest; and THAT is really good for consumers.”
I am always proud of CUB and the work we do; however, it is particularly gratifying to have Senator Beyer share such powerful words about “Why CUB Matters”. Tomorrow is #GivingTuesday and we are asking you to tell us “Why CUB Matters” with your online donation. It’s a great way to kick off this season of goodwill. Your gifts are tax deductible and you will be joining the CUB ranks to keep utilities affordable, accessible, reliable, and clean.
And if Lee’s words aren’t enough, please check out why staff and supporters tell us “Why CUB Matters” to them or read our “Top Ten Reasons why CUB Matters”. And Give today!
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11/27/17 | 0 Comments | Senator Beyer Shares: “Why CUB Matters”