Mason PUD News

The Mason County PUD No. 3 Board of Commissioners approved vouchers in the amount of $173,000.

PUD 3 Commissioners approved the sale of surplused equipment (two recloser control panels) in the amount of $2,450 to Lewis County PUD.

Louis Cofoni of Shelton expressed his concerns about competition for renewable energy sources with California, while at the same time the ability to site new generating facilities in Washington State is becoming problematic. Mr. Cofoni cited shortcomings of various renewable energy projects and the opposition that has delayed or terminated them.

Commissioner Bruce Jorgenson stated that a bill in last year’s legislative session would have provided relief by allowing Washington State utilities to purchase renewable energy from more sources throughout the western U.S. Commissioner Jorgenson said that changes in the state’s renewable energy law has been opposed by environmental groups.

John Komen of Grapeview read a statement asking the commission to reconsider its decision to move forward on the construction of the new Johns Prairie Operations Center. Mr. Komen expressed his concern over various industry-related issues that could have impact on utility costs. He requested a survey be done about the project.

Mr. Cofoni also spoke about the operations center project. He said that the commission had the facts before them to make an informed decision about the facility. Cofoni said that similar to delaying home improvement projects, construction of a new operations center will cost more in the future if it is delayed or deferred. He referred to a newspaper article that described the interest of the Mason County Senior Activities Association in purchasing the PUD’s downtown buildings. He said he thought the arrangement would be a win for both entities.

Commissioners authorized renewal of the PUD’s benefits plans for 2010.

Commissioners approved Resolution 1487, declaring a 1986 International Harvester cab and chassis as surplus. (The flatbed dump platform and lift will be removed from this unit for use on a new vehicle.)

Commissioner authorized the purchase of a 2010 International Harvester cab and chassis off Washington State Contract in the amount of $66,000 plus tax.

Jay Himlie, Power Supply Manager, discussed a change in the way that the Bonneville Power Administration charges for wholesale electricity. Although his analysis indicates that the overall rate impact is not much, Washington State’s renewable energy mandates will have an effect. Himlie pointed out that regardless of the affect on wholesale rates on an annual basis, the new rate structure will result in more volatility in some months, which will require close management of reserves.

Matt Samuelson, Senior Power Supply Analyst, reported that representatives of the Radar Ridge wind project’s participant committee will be meeting with members of the Congressional delegation this week. The delegation will receive an update on the project and be asked to ensure that the project receives a fair and unbiased review.

The next PUD 3 commission meeting takes place October 13, 2009 in the PUD 3 auditorium at 307 West Cota Street in Shelton at 10:00 a.m.