Political Philosophy for Cynthia R. First

Candidate for
Public Utilities District 1 Commissioner; District 3

I am running for this office because my knowledge of energy and environmental policy, combined with my legal skills and previous experience serving as a public official make me uniquely qualified for this position. The utility industry is changing rapidly. I want to help the District make the best possible decisions over the next six years. These decisions will have a significant impact on the residents and businesses of our service area--now and in the future.

The most important issue before the Commission is providing reliable and cost-effective electric and water services to our ratepayers. Embracing sound fiscal management policies, staying abreast of the changes in the energy marketplace, and negotiating the best power supply we can are all policies that should be incorporated in the organization. As the 12th largest public utility in the United States, we are well equipped to adhere to those guidelines.

I believe that the decision-making in our public utility should be thoughtful, informed, respectful, open and honest. I will strive to ensure that these values are embedded in the PUD's policy-making processes.