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Rate increase recommendation on horizon
NEWPORT – John Janney, General Manager of Public Utility District No. 1 of Pend Oreille County (PUD), has announced his retirement. Janney informed the PUD Board of Commissioners of his decision, and the Board announced his departure at its Tuesday, Feb. 4 meeting. Janney, who began as General Manager in December 2023, will remain at the PUD through Wednesday, Feb. 26. During his tenure, he led the utility through significant operational and financial initiatives, positioning it to navigate industry challenges while working to maintain competitive rates and reliable service for PUD customers.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision, but after much reflection, I know it is the right one for me and my family,” Janney said. “It has been an honor to work alongside such a dedicated team. The people at this PUD care deeply about their mission and the communities they serve, and I have no doubt the utility is in good hands moving forward.”
Before joining the PUD, Janney brought more than 30 years of experience in the energy, utility, and banking sectors, including leadership roles at Chelan County PUD, Grant County PUD, and Klickitat County PUD. He holds a master’s degree in finance from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in business from the University of Montana.
PUD Board President Dave Rick expressed gratitude for Janney’s leadership. “John stepped into this role with dedication and a clear vision for strengthening the PUD,” Rick said. “His leadership helped guide the organization through important transitions and laid the groundwork for a strong future. We appreciate his service and wish him the very best in his well-earned retirement.”
PUD proposes 4.25% rate increase for electric service
Also at Tuesday’s board meeting, PUD staff recommended a 4.25% rate increase for electric service, citing rising costs and the need for critical infrastructure investments. The proposal follows a comprehensive financial review and public outreach initiative.
Several rate scenarios were presented, including a no-increase option that could lead to financial shortfalls, a delayed increase in 2026, and alternative adjustments of 4.0% or 5.0%. The Board is set to take action on the proposed increase at its March 4 meeting, with new rates taking effect on April 1 if approved. The average residential customer would see an increase of about $5.50 per month.
A public hearing will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 9:30 a.m. at the PUD’s Newport office, giving customers the opportunity to provide input.
“Like our customers, we have seen costs rise significantly in recent years. We know that no one likes to see rates go up, and we don’t take this decision lightly,” said April Owen, Director of Finance for the PUD. “However, rising costs of energy, labor, materials, and expensive state regulations are outpacing our existing revenues. This adjustment is necessary to sustain the reliable service our customers expect and ensure we’re making the infrastructure investments needed for the future.”
If approved, the increase will help cover increasing expenses due to inflation, regulatory compliance costs and help fund essential system upgrades such as new substations.
“We’ve held rates as low as possible for as long as possible,” Owen said. “For years, we’ve absorbed rising costs, but we’ve reached a point where that’s no longer sustainable. This adjustment ensures we can continue to provide safe, reliable service while planning for the future.”
For more information, call the PUD at 509-447-3137 or visit www.popud.org/ top-links/about-your-pud/our-rates.
