2019-05-13 Quarterly Meeting with the PUDQuarterly Meeting with the PUD
May 13, 2019
2:31 p.m.
Present: Commissioner Jackson, Commissioner Stamper, Commissioner Fund, PUD Manager Chris Roden
Guests: Kai Nuce of Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler’s Office, Dr. Lindsey Pollock
Recorder: Rieva Lester
PUD Manager Chris Roden said the PUD will hold a workshop May 14 regarding a new budgeting process
that will extend to 2027.
Chris said one immediate change has been to manage the PUD’s cash positions, sweeping the PUD’s
cash accounts, which will improve the interest earned from $100,000 to an estimated $500,000
annually.
Chris said he is working on a legislative debrief.
Chris said he will be intently watching new carbon footprint rules. Chris said I-937 may change. He noted
that the PUD’s windfarm contract expires in 2027.
Chris said one of his staffers just spent two weeks in California with the group that runs the grid for that
area. He said it will be important to make sure the Northwest is able to maintain control over its power
in the future.
Chris said the PUD is working on a plan for fiber. He said he is looking into out-of-basin mitigation. He
said he’d be happy to work with any municipality on LED lights. He said grant dollars may be available.
Chris said the PUD has an ad hoc fiber backbone. He said legislation prevents the PUD from providing
retail access. He said grant funds and a partnership with a local provider would clear the path. He said
the PUD will hold a workshop about fiber later in the year.
Chris said the electric vehicle charging station push is moving forward. He said he is looking for potential
sites to make themselves known.
Commissioner Jackson left at 2:58 p.m.
Commissioner Fund discussed lodging taxes with Chris, who recently was appointed to the county’s
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC).
Meeting adjourned at 3:05 p.m.