Chugach Consumers

2009 Chugach Consumers Endorsed Candidate Statements

Uwe Kalenka

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Kwik Log Subdivision
38 Years
Retired Property Manager
N/A
B.A. History, Univ. of Alaska Anchorage
B.A. Justice, Univ. of Alaska Anchorage
NRECA Credentialed Cooperative Director
Board Leadership Certificate

Nominated by: 
Incumbent: 
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Petition
No
None

Candidate Statement

With hard economic times and declining gas supplies, controlling costs and finding reliable fuel sources are absolutely critical. 

I will act only for the benefit of the 70,000 consumer/ratepayers and not for any special interests. My record proves it. My Chugach Electric board votes earned outstanding pro-consumer ratings (98%); IBEW Union-backed opponents Jim Nordlund scored only 5% and Pat Kennedy 29%. (See www.chugachconsumers.org).

I will support:

• Aggressive negotiations for reliable long-term natural gas supplies at the lowest possible price.
• Moving from over-reliance on natural gas to a mix of the most cost effective renewable and alternative sources of energy.
• Combining generation and transmission assets with other utilities for substantial cost reductions.
• Controlling labor costs. IBEW Union contracts are up for renegotiation. IBEW spends vast sums to get their allies on your Chugach board. The last IBEW-backed board majority unfairly and irresponsibly gave 18% raises, boosted pension contributions 30%, with no limits on health costs!  Did your income and benefits go up like that?

In this economic environment, it is crucial that every penny is spent wisely. Please vote for me, Uwe Kalenka, and fellow independent, Steve Pratt.

 

Steve Pratt

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Turnagain View
Member since 1995
Energy/Economic Consultant
Steve Pratt Enterprises
B.S. Economics and Political Science,
University of Wisconsin, Madison

Nominated by: 
Incumbent: 
Declarations:  

Nominating Committee
No
None

Candidate Statement

While fuel supply issues are critical, Chugach cannot lose focus on the need to invest in safe, clean, economical energy technologies that promise stable prices and efficient energy use. We have a huge stake in power supply and grid evolution.

My background includes 3 years in Corporate Planning at Wisconsin Electric, 5 years on the ML&P Commission, 8 years with the Alaska Regulatory Commission, 12 years in senior utility management, and 7 years providing economic consulting services. I was appointed by the Mayor to serve as an expert on the MLP/Chugach advisory committee that recommended joint operations to save money.

I have presented educational workshops on gas pipeline issues, reviewed the differing goals and objectives of Alaska utilities, and worked on energy planning with the Alaska Power Association. In every energy scenario, Chugach customers play a major role.

To remain competitive for capital, labor, and customers, Chugach’s mission will be a collaborative one. Working with other utilities, agencies, and consumers, we can maximize benefits for cooperative members.

I bring a unique, experienced, independent, and substantive voice to Board oversight of utility operations and appreciate both your dialogue and your vote.

 


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