No energy for answers

It's the time of year again when rate hikes are in the news (NHR, by Luther Turmelle). But consumers should take solace in the notion that our elected officials are showing a great deal of concern (AP) for us (said tongue in cheek). With UI requesting a 38% rate hike for households and 50% for businesses, the AP reported the following this past week:

"House Democrats on Monday ruled out a special legislative session to take up energy legislation, choosing instead to schedule a public hearing before the end of the year. Rising energy prices have become a political issue, putting pressure on elected officials to at least try to find solutions."

This definitely was one of the issues I heard repeated the most by people this fall. And I think it's great that there's going to be a public hearing. But will they ever take action?

People wanted action a year ago, but nothing has happened yet. I think our "citizens' legislature" is overcomplicating this and getting too involved in the details.

Tim White
Town Council, 4th District