Hay quits as Nevada utility regulator

Tuesday, Dec. 22, 1998 | 11:47 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- After months of internal battling, Timothy Hay said he will resign from the state Public Utilities Commission effective Friday.

Gov. Bob Miller said he is consulting with Gov.-elect Kenny Guinn and hopes to name a replacement this week. Hay was appointed to his three-year term in July 1997.

A policy and personality clash developed between Hay and Commission Chairwoman Judy Sheldrew in the last year. Earlier this year he vowed to submit his resignation to the incoming governor.

Hay, 44, an attorney, said he has been talking with Guinn officials about the possibility of another appointment in government. And he said he may go into "the private sector."

Miller said the post cannot be left vacant long because of the important work before the commission, which must decide by Jan. 4 on the proposed merger of the two major electric companies in the state -- Nevada Power Co. of Las Vegas and Sierra Pacific Power Co. of Reno.

Hay declined to comment on his differences with Sheldrew, who could not be reached for comment.

Another commissioner, Galen Denio, resigned last year after policy and other battles with Sheldrew.

"He has served the state of Nevada well during his time associated with the Public utilities Commission," Miller said. "While I am sorry to see him leave public service, I am confident he will be successful in his future endeavors."

Hay was general counsel to the Public Service Commission before his appointment in 1996 as a member.