Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda (Pos. 8, Citywide), chair of the Housing, Health, Energy and Workers’ Rights Committee, will oversee the confirmation process for the appointment of Debra Smith as Seattle City Light’s next Chief Executive Officer and General Manager.
Mayor Jenny Durkan announced the nomination of Smith earlier today. Smith has worked in the public utility industry for 22 years, most recently as General Manager of the Central Lincoln People’s Utility District in Oregon since 2013. If confirmed, Smith will assume the CEO and General Manager role at Seattle City Light beginning October 15, 2018.
“The confirmation process will be our opportunity as Council, and the public’s best opportunity, to not only learn more about Debra Smith, but also ensure that community priorities are her priorities,” said Councilmember Mosqueda.
“Over the last year, we have heard concerns about City Light, and the need for sufficient oversight and improved safety in workplaces – due to insufficient staffing for labor-intensive projects, or fear of workplace harassment and retaliation. We have also heard from customers who have received inflated and erroneous bills, and now is the time where we need a leader who can address these challenges head on.
“The next General Manager also has the opportunity ensure the Strategic Plan is properly implemented, that we identify the best and fairest rate design possible, and continue taking steps to become more energy efficient while ensuring that we are financially sound.
“I look forward to working with colleagues to learn more about Smith’s vision on these issues, and to ensure that the public has adequate opportunity to engage in the confirmation process. My staff and I will be working hard to ensure that questions are answered, and a clear picture is presented for what we can expect from the next City Light CEO and General Manager.”
Councilmember Mosqueda has established the following public hearing schedule for the City Council to consider the Mayor’s nominee for Seattle City Light CEO:
Housing, Health, Energy and Workers’ Rights Committee Meeting
Thursday, September 13, 2018, 9:30 a.m.
Council Chambers
Briefing & Discussion on Appointment
Housing, Health, Energy and Workers’ Rights Committee Meeting
Thursday, September 20, 2018 9:30 a.m.
Council Chambers
Briefing, Discussion on Appointment (along with other committee business)
Future committee meetings and full council vote on confirmation will be posted online at seattle.gov/council/issues/seattle-city-light-ceo
Members of the public can submit comments about the nominee via email to Teresa.Mosqueda@seattle.gov, by calling Council offices (206) 684-8888, or in person during the public comment portion of the scheduled meetings above.