Jones, Jones leave Grant County PUD

Married couple moving to Spokane, wife takes new job

EPHRATA — The Grant County Public Utility District announced Monday the resignation of its director of communications and external affairs, who is taking a position in Spokane with energy company Avista Corp.

Linda M. Jones will become the investor-owned utility's new director of corporate communications. She will be responsible for leading Avista's strategic communications with external and internal stakeholder groups.

During the last 15 years, Jones worked in a variety of positions for the PUD. Recently, she led the communications department and focused on governmental affairs.

Jones will start Dec. 12 at Avista, replacing Patrick Lynch, who will be Avista's new director of energy solutions.

"Avista is fortunate in being able to attract and retain such capable talent. Linda's direct utility and communications experience makes her an ideal choice to join Avista to lead it communications work," said Roger Woodworth, vice president of customer solutions in a press statement.

"It's an opportunity that came along I couldn't pass up," Jones said.

As a native of Spokane, Jones also said it was her long-range plan to return to that area.

Jones' husband, Larry, is currently the PUD's director of support services. He plans to resign from that position, she said.

In the meantime, he will begin a job search in the Spokane area, she said.