Public can speak on SDG&E plan at hearings on Thursday

Ramona residents can voice their opinions at public participation hearings on Thursday, April 5, on whether San Diego Gas & Electric should be allowed to include uninsured 2007 wildfire costs in a balancing account.

The hearings will be held by the California Public Utilities Commission at Al Bahr Shriners Center, 5440 Kearny Mesa Road. The first session will begin at 2 p.m. and the second session will start at 6 p.m.

SDG&E is seeking to establish a Wildfire Expense Balancing Account mechanism that would include the uninsured costs. Opponents say this will lead to ratepayers covering the uninsured costs through increased rates, and less incentive for the utility company to establish safety measures.

For more information on public participation hearings, go to www.cpuc.ca.gov. For more information about the Mussey Grade Road Alliance’s opposition to SDG&E’s proposal, contact Diane Conklin at 760-787-0794.