GRANT COUNTY PUD

Reader endorses Ron Baker

I have known both Bob Bernd and Ron Baker, personally and professionally, for over 25 years.

I the September 2010 edition of Venue Magazine, Bob states, "Since 2004, residential rates have gone up only 2.8 percent." Bob failed to mention the 4 percent increase that went into effect in April of this year and another 4 percent increase that was voted to go into effect 2011. He also stated, "In the past two years the PUD received less revenue than expected." These statements are blatantly, and materially, misleading.

Why has this happened, we ask? The real reason is that the PUD over-estimated revenue and under-estimated expenses two years in a row. Where is this blank check coming from? The PUD ratepayers, you and I.

I personally like Bob, but can no longer support or afford his misunderstanding of budgets and rate increases. I am voting for Ron Baker for PUD Commissioner. As a professional engineer, Ron understands budgets, cost estimates, contracts, and rate increases. Ron is a United States veteran and he is uniquely qualified to be a PUD Commissioner.

Katherine Waters

Moses Lake