Fenty’s PSC Choice in Doubt

Mayor Fenty's PSC Nomination is Facing Questions About Qualifications

The Public Service Commission (PSC) is an independent District agency that regulates the electric, gas and telephone companies in D.C. Since last June, Mayor Adrian Fenty has faced an onslaught of criticism over his appointment of Lori M. Lee to head the PSC.

The first strike came from the D.C. Council, who feared that Lee’s background in immigration law at the Justice Department did not adequately prepare her to head a board that regulates electric, natural gas and telecommunications companies. Confirmation hearings with the Council did not go well.

The second strike came in the form of a Washington Post opinion piece from the paper’s editorial board. The board highlighted the relationship between Lee and Fenty’s wife and brought up the possibility of cronyism in the Fenty administration. The final conclusion of the Post was this, “Given, though, the substantial and valid objections to this appointment, Mr. Fenty should reconsider his position and withdraw Ms. Lee’s name.”

The final strike has come from Friends of the Earth, who have begun circulating a petition that urges the D.C. Council to find a “real candidate for this position.” Friends of the Earth’s belief is that Lee’s lack of experience prevents her from hitting the ground running, which will have a negative impact on important issues like global warming, air pollution and energy conservation.

If you would like to read the Washington Post’s editorial on Lori M. Lee’s appointment to the PSC on their website, click HERE.

To read and sign the petition by Friends of the Earth on their website, click HERE.

CC-licensed by Flickr user Mike McCaffrey