Letter: West Supports Pacino, Mancuso for RMLD Commissioners

Editor's note: Marsie West is a current RMLD Commissioner and candidate for the Reading Board of Selectmen. 

Dear Editor, 

Reading Municipal Light is a valuable, well-managed asset to the town of Reading, providing revenue to the town through an annual return on investment and payment in lieu of taxes.  It supplies electricity to 4 communities as the largest municipal utility in New England, providing low rates and high reliability.

A recent article on top town salaries was misleading since our utility has a separate $96 million dollar budget, larger than the entire town. RMLD competes with public and investor owned utilities for staff.  Additionally, the ranking included all pay, with overtime from linemen who work many extra hours to ensure reliable electricity is available to the community in storms and other situations.

On April 2nd, town residents will have an opportunity to elect 2 Commissioners to a full 3 year term on the Board.  It is important that Commissioners reflect the experience and focus mandated by state law in the oversight of municipal utilities.  This mandate is to create policies and oversee the general manager, while the GM retains responsibility for the utility’s ongoing operations.   

Phil Pacino has many years as an RMLD Commissioner and provides continuity with his past 26 years of oversight.  Dave Mancuso has extensive experience with energy commissions and national industry contacts which will benefit the RMLD Board. As an individual resident, I will be supporting Phil and Dave in this year’s election as the most qualified candidates to manage the policies and procedures of RMLD. 

Marsie West, Precinct 4