"Can't tell you. It's a surprise!"

[This article was originally published on January 17, 2007]

When the Publisher's Clearing House is on the way to your home with that "big check" and a bouquet of roses, it's ok for your in-the-know neighbor to keep the arrival a surprise. But, if what is headed to your home is another rate hike in your electric bill, then forget about the "surprise" and let's have community involvement in the decision making process.

Ron Ward, Jewett City Party candidate for Warden of the Borough of Jewett City, has a plan that gives consumers served by the Jewett City Department of Public Utilities (JCDPU) a seat at the table where the decisions are made. Ward stated, "By creating the JCDPU Consumer Board of Utility Control, rate payers will have a role to play in the management and performance of the Jewett City Department of Public Utilities."

As a candidate for Borough Warden, Ron Ward emphasized, "Introducing and passing an ordinance creating the Consumer Board of Utility Control will be a priority for my administration." The Board of Warden and Burgesses will immediately address how best to lower both the electric and sewer rates.

The JCDPU is publicly owned by the residents of Jewett City. It is governed by a three member Board of Commissioners. These commissioners are appointed by the elected Board of Warden and Burgesses of Jewett City. State of Connecticut statutes and regulations that created Citizen Advisory Councils for Cable Television providers will serve as a model for the proposed Consumer Board of Utility Control.

There is a good reason that the fox isn't put in the hen house to keep a watchful eye on the hens.