PUD manager appoints two assistant GMs

by Erik Olson<br>Herald Staff Writer
| May 4, 2004 9:00 PM

PUD treasurer, fisheries scientist to assume extra duties

Commandeering the Grant County PUD is a big job.

Now, General Manager Tim Culbertson has two assistants to make it a bit smaller.

Culbertson yesterday announced the appointments of two assistant general managers: PUD Treasurer/ Controller Laura Lyon and senior fisheries scientist Joe Lukas.

"Managing Grant PUD is an intensive job," Culbertson said in a news release. "By adding Joe and Laura as assistant general managers, I can focus on regional issues and know that we're well cared for at home. It will allow us flexibility that we have not had for some time."

Culbertson said the changes are the first step in a succession plan. In the next few years, a number of directors will be eligible for retirement, and the new management structure will allow other employees to prepare to step in for those who leave, he said.

"We need to be proactive in how we fill these positions," Culbertson said.

He added that his second goal is formulating a strategic plan for the PUD, and hashing out a succession plan is the first step.

Lyon's new title will be strategic assistant general manager. She will tend to power management, communications and external affairs, accounting and financing and strategic planning, according to a PUD news release. She will keep her responsibilities and treasurer/controller.

Lukas, who is the new operations assistant general manager, will oversee hydro operations, human resources and support services, customer service, telecommunications and natural resources, according to the news release.

The transition period for the new managerial structure will take between four and six weeks, according to the news release.

"We are pleased with the decisions Tim has made," PUD Commission President Tom Flint said in the news release. "The changes he is implementing will help us better meet the needs of our ratepayer-owners and once again establish Grant PUD as one of the leading utilities in the

region."

Additionally, Culbertson announced the promotion of Melinda Barnes to director of finance and accounting. Tony Webb and Craig Jorgensen will also serve as new directors of human resources and support services.