Great Falls Tribune

May 13, 2009

Citing health reasons, Power Board member Gilbert resigns

By RICHARD ECKE
Tribune Staff Writer

An active member of the city of Great Falls' most controversial advisory board has resigned.

John Gilbert, a board member of Electric City Power, the city's electric utility, said he submitted his resignation by e-mail last week for health reasons.

Gilbert said doctors recently found a tumor in his bladder, and he underwent outpatient surgery two weeks ago in Great Falls. He said the condition is treatable and not life-threatening.

However, Gilbert said that given his condition, he would not have time to continue serving on the advisory group.

Gilbert said he received his diagnosis last month, on his 60th birthday.

In his half-year on the board, Gilbert used his accounting and government background to try to explain issues to the public at meetings. He also attempted peace overtures to the city's critics at board meetings, with mixed success.

"He did a great job," said fellow board member Bob Pancich. "He dug in and asked questions."

Gilbert was an early proponent of a consulting study to look at the city's electricity venture, a suggestion city officials are putting into action. City Manager Greg Doyon also spoke in favor of hiring a consultant.

Electric City Power Board meetings have sparked controversy, in part, because of the city's involvement in a proposed coal-fired power plant east of Great Falls. Power plant developers now may build a natural gas-fired power plant at that site instead, quieting objections by some people who objected to the coal-fired plant on environmental grounds.

The city's efforts to sell public power also prompted some criticism from residents.

Gilbert is a former Great Falls city commissioner.