I am pleased to announce my candidacy for reelection for Pacific Public Utility District commissioner #2 for another term and look forward to continuing to serve our community.

Pacific PUD is your locally controlled, not-for-profit public utility company. It is owned by the customers/ratepayers in Pacific County to provide electricity and wholesale telecommunication to the community. During open, public board meetings three elected board members (including myself) oversee the utility operations, while the dedicated employees do a wonderful job of “keeping the lights on” day in and day out!

The last time I ran for election, I promised to be a “voice for the community” and to be both transparent and accountable to you — the public. It has been busy and here are some of the accomplishments we have worked on.

• Hired a new general manager/chief executive officer after a nationwide search that manages the utility.

• Kept PUD financially sound. Passed annual budgets and this year all current bonds will be paid and we will be debt free.

• Kept rates low with no rate increases the past two years.

• Currently working on a strategic plan that addresses the needs of the utility today and in the future.

• Awarded $5 million grant for telecommunication build out that is happening now in the Bay Center area. In addition, we purchased the rights to wireless spectrum in the county for telecommunication.

• Increased participation in energy rebates (windows, heat pumps, insulation) and network metering (rooftop solar).

• Increased low-income assistance and the Warm Hearts program, giving priority to serve those in greatest need.

I have lived, worked and been an active community member on the Long Beach Peninsula for 47 years. I welcome the opportunity to use my experience to continue to serve this community. If you would like to discuss my candidacy, please reach out via the email below.

DEBBIE OAKES

Long Beach

DebbieOakes4PUD.com

Phone: 360-777-3873