Letter: Power company gets fat while customers pay

Friday, Feb. 2, 2001 | 10:14 a.m.

In a July letter I wrote about a fair and honest way for the power company to raise its rates and also show consideration to seniors and those of low income so we wouldn't need government subsidies, which eventually reflect back to us taxpayers.

Those in the state Public Utilities Commission should read letters to the editor. They may just learn something and not be so lenient in giving out rate hikes (lately every other month). Are you examining and questioning all other options before you do so? Will you put more families in poverty?

It seems power companies want the public to buy their equipment and buy expensive furniture for their high-priced executive offices. I believe some cats are getting exceptionally fat. Maybe the higher salaries are questionable. If these companies are suddenly in such a money crisis, no one is putting off substantial raises for employees or executives at negotiation time.

One representative said on the news how sorry he was for those subscribers who may suffer, but that our power is no longer free. A real intelligent remark to the public. When was it ever free?

Sounds like the day before Pearl Harbor. If a recession does come, some of the blame belongs on these large companies asking for rate hikes and the commissions approving them.

CHARLES A. HAGEN