PUD to offer general manager new contract

EPHRATA — Grant County PUD commissioners will vote on proposal to offer general manager Kevin Nordt a five-year contract at the Dec. 11 commission meeting.

The proposal was discussed during Tuesday’s business session. While it was proposed by commissioner Tom Flint, commissioner Bob Bernd said the entire commission had discussed it.

“We did have a chance during executive session to review the wish of the commission to recognize Kevin’s considerable experience, his performance and his successfully managing our utility,” Bernd said. “We want to express a commitment between the commission and Kevin – and to the community – that this is intended to be lasting and durable.”

Nordt was hired as general manager in 2016, and previous contracts had been year-to-year. Nordt started at the PUD in 2004 as coordinator for the hydroelectric projects owned by the three public utility districts along the mid-Columbia River. He became Grant PUD power manager in 2008, finance director in 2011 and chief financial officer in 2012.

“We’ve kind of had Kevin on a probationary status for quite a while,” Flint said. “Moving forward I think it’s appropriate for us to have him have the opportunity to represent the district as the CEO on a more permanent basis.”

Commissioner Larry Schaapman said he likes the direction the PUD is going. “We’re on a good path.” Nordt has been part of the work done to improve the PUD’s financial position, Schaapman said, an effort that’s starting to pay off. “When I first was on this commission, we had six and eight percent increases.” The proposed rate increase for 2019 is two percent overall, and is projected at one percent for 2020. Commissioners adopted a plan in 2014 that projected two percent rate increases through 2024, and it’s being revised halfway through, Schaapman said.

“That speaks well to (Nordt’s) ability to lead and try and zero in on costs and efficiencies.” Nordt has worked to meet the goals included established by the commissioners, Schaapman said, and he wants to keep that momentum going. “I think it’s the right thing to do.”

Commissioner Terry Brewer also expressed support for the proposed contract, but said he would wait to comment until the Dec. 11 meeting.

Cheryl Schweizer can be reached via email at education@columbiabasinherald.com.