Candidate Forum Tackles Energy Rate Issues in Havasu Ahead of ACC Race

In a notable event for Lake Havasu City this past week, Democratic candidate Jonathan Hill received unexpected applause from a predominantly Republican audience. Attendees expressed their dissatisfaction with other candidates, vowing not to support them in the upcoming general election.

Residents had gathered at the Mohave County Library for a candidate forum focused on the Arizona Corporation Commission elections. Hill was the sole candidate to accept the invitation among six listed contenders for positions that oversee private utility regulation.

During the forum, Hill committed to voting for a reassessment of this year’s UniSource Energy Services (UES) rate case if elected in November. His promise stems from widespread concern over a recent decision allowing a 12% rate hike and an additional 8% surcharge that hit customers hard.

Last month, many residents reported drastically higher utility bills, prompting local organizations to file complaints against UniSource with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Hill addressed the rising costs, highlighting the challenges posed by utility monopolies and their lack of competition.

“When it comes to our utilities, we do not have a choice who we buy that service or product from,” Hill stated. “They’re monopolies. The Arizona State Constitution established the ACC to regulate these utilities, which is even more critical today.”

Hill emphasized that utility regulation should transcend partisan politics. “It doesn’t matter what letter comes after your name,” he remarked, underlining that utility issues affect everyone regardless of political affiliation.

Although Hill announced intentions to advocate for a reevaluation of the UES rate case, he refrained from speculating on how he might vote if the case came before him as a commissioner. He noted that any decision would require impartiality and adherence to legal standards.

Hill is among three candidates vying for seats on the Arizona Corporation Commission, where a majority vote is necessary to alter the current rate decisions. He mentioned fellow candidates Ylena Aguilar and Joshua Polachek as potential allies in championing consumer interests.

Current commissioner Lea Marquez Peterson, who previously sought a reexamination of the UES rate case, and other candidates were absent from the forum, leaving Hill the opportunity to present his case without opposition.