Lisa Lotte Hardiman

3726 4^th Ave. N.

Great Falls, MT 59401

406-455-6412

PSC

1701 Prospect Ave.

P.O. Box 202601

Helena, MT 59620

Dear PSC:

Normally I would gladly see the city of Great Falls enter into a Utility so that its residents can achieve a cheaper rate of electricity. However, this time I must say I have severe reservations on this venture. The city has entered into a contract with the SME and to build a coal generating power plant and has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars, disregarding any concerns of the citizens. There has never been a vote on this venture nor a mill levy to spend so much money. The entire Electric City Board is people with an interest in generating electricity only through the Highwood Coal Plant and there are no people on the board who are actively pursuing renewable energy.

I am concerned about mercury and pubic health, the use of water rights, CO2 and global warming. The last public meeting I helped organized was in Havre. The meeting was constantly interrupted by the SME attorney and engineer and a representative from the PipeFitter’s Union. I think to have diverse opinions is part of living in a democracy, but to actively deny other opinions is a disrespect to a democracy. There is also a conflict of interest. Coleen Balzarini is the executive director of the Electric City Power and the fiscal manager of the city. The city manager’s office talks as if there is a cash cow waiting for the city. I am greatly concerned that the lack of diverse opinions on their electric board and lack of citizen involvement has created a board that doesn’t follow democratic due process. Is the city of Great Falls ready to be a public Utility, I don’t think so.

Sincerely yours,

Lisa Lotte Hardiman