Edison Exec Explains Delays, Lack of Answers (Video)

Listing myriad problems that slowed down the power company's response to , Southern California Edison Regional Manager Ronald Garcia apologized for not having the answer those in the dark still want to know: "When will I get my power back?''

Garcia addressed La Cañada Flintridge City Council Monday night, referencing the city's damage and devastation in surrounding communities. He ticked off a litany of unexpected problems the storm, with its hurricane-force winds, brought to their restoration efforts. Going forward, crews will not touch wires that have fallen into trees until they're grounded at both ends, he said.

Oil spills from transformers that required HazMat cleanup were another hinderance, he said, noting in his 44 years with the power company this was the worst storm he'd experienced.

Garcia admitted to a breakdown in communication between the company, the cities and customers--but he said he didn't have information to communicate. And by the time he received that information, the higher priority was the safety of removing and re-energizing downed lines.

"It was impossible to meet the needs of everyone asking for help,'' he said.

Although Garcia reiterated several times a message that is posted on the company's website--to call 911 if you see a downed line--LCF Council member Don Voss pointed out that a few residents who called 911 were told to call SoCal Edison.

The coordination between emergency personell and the power company is one of the topics the city plans to discuss with executives at SoCal Edison in upcoming meetings. 

Garcia speaks to all the issues he encountered and why he couldn't pass along information to the public, as well as explains why some people had fleeting power restoration, in this article's video.