An e-mail from Indiana Senator David Long:
Providing Electricity + Protecting Property Rights
Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission schedules Fort Wayne area meeting on Sept. 29 to inform stakeholders and gather public testimony
An important meeting has been scheduled by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) concerning electric utility tree trimming practices.
The Office of Utility Consumer Councelor (OUCC) will conduct an informational meeting at 5:30 p.m., on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at the Wayne High School Auditorium, 9100 Winchester Road, Fort Wayne. Public testimony on the issue will follow during a 6 p.m. hearing with the IURC.
I would encourage any citizen concerned about this issue to attend this meeting.
Recently, the OUCC – the state agency that represents the interests of residential, commercial and industrial utility customers – recommended establishing uniform vegetation management standards for all electric utilities under its jurisdiction. Their recommendation included guidelines for providing notice to property owners before trimming, appropriate dispute resolution practices and enhanced consumer education.
If you cannot attend the upcoming meeting, you may submit comments by e-mail or by mail to:
Consumer Services Staff
Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor
115 W. Washington St. Suite 1500 South
Indianapolis, IN 46204Written comments should include name, mailing address and a reference to IURC Cause No. 43663. Additional information on this case – including a link to the OUCC’s testimony – is available here.
Together, I believe we can maintain infrastructure necessary for safe, dependable electric service while at the same time respecting rights of property owners.