I had the opportunity to have a pizza lunch with Joshua Polacheck, who is running for the AZ Corporation Commission during this 2024 election cycle.
For those who do not know (probably most people), the Corporation Commission is charged with regulating all public-benefit corporations in Arizona such as electric, gas, water, telecommunications, television, railroads, etc. You will mostly see their power come into force when they are asked to approve or deny utility rate increases. They usually approve without thought. One example is the 2007 1000% rate increase for sewer in San Manuel.
Joshua comes from a background of lifelong civil service, particularly with the State Department. He has done his homework on the state of the Commission, and I enjoyed his thoughts on what he hopes for the future. Unlike many, he has a very firm understanding of, and is open about, the possibilities and limitations that come with the role of commissioner.
Vote for who you think is best, but I would encourage you to check him out.
Brendan Trachsel © Copyright 2024 
