TOP OF MIND

Top of Mind is a weekly question about an issue affecting New Mexicans.

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION Do you support having local government take over from PNM to provide electricity?

“Absolutely not. I totally agree — unusual — with Pat Davis’ ‘Point’ in the (Feb. 19 Sunday Journal) and he should know. Local authorities have neither the expertise nor the time to control a utility. Some can barely control their cities. I totally disagree with Steve Fischmann’s disparaging comments about PNM in the same issue.”

— Joe Stehling, Tijeras

“Considering how corrupt PNM is, and the looming merger with Avangrid, which is even more corrupt, yes, I would support our government managing our electric system.”

— Lois Fuller, Albuquerque

“Absolutely not. The New Mexico power grid is a part of a much larger dynamic regional grid that requires a high level of technical expertise to manage. Putting it in the hands of local politicians would lead to a devastating outcome.”

— Dan Sparacino, Albuquerque

“Yes, and about time.”

— Joe Rodriguez, Albuquerque

“The idea of local governments managing utilities is beyond ridiculous. Their inability to manage the bus system, our homeless issue, increasing crime, police staffing issues, etc., are indicative of the disaster waiting to happen should we decide to enter the energy business. Dumb idea.”

— Kurt Loutzenhiser, Albuquerque

“I do. Without the need to answer to investors on Wall Street, the utility should be able to provide necessary services at a reasonable rate. PNM has a need to provide a certain return. Having reliable energy should be a homeowner’s or tenant’s right.”

— Patrick McCaffrey, Los Lunas

“No, it is unnecessary. This will become a partisan fight every election cycle. Most local governments do not have infrastructure or resources needed to maintain services and for billing.”

— Faith Brandt, Albuquerque

“I do not trust the government when it comes to anything. They don’t even know how to run this state. I do not want them having anything to do with our electricity.”

— Jennifer Collins, Edgewood

“Let’s make a deal: If PNM will stop dragging its feet on switching to clean energy and stop trying to merge with Avangrid, then local communities will stop asking to manage their own electricity. And how about a timetable for upgrading power lines so that everyone can have rooftop solar?”

— Dee Myers, Albuquerque

“You might call that a Hobson’s choice to ponder: Somewhat akin to saying ‘do you want electricity delivered by CYFD or the Sopranos?’ I’d probably opt for the latter.”

— Tim Kraft, Albuquerque

“Whenever someone proposes a big change like this, rest assured there is lots of money to be made by someone. In this case, probably attorneys, power brokers and who knows who else. Always assume they are more interested in lining their own pockets than they are improving the public welfare.”

— Duane Meneely, Albuquerque

“Sure. And while we’re at it, have PNM take over the running of the Albuquerque Journal. Both make equal sense.”

— Kenneth Cooper, Albuquerque