FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2020
Contact: Matt Garcia-Sierra, m.garciasierra@nmlegis.gov, 505-205-5486
Two PRC Members Pre-determined Positions in Closure Case of San Juan Generating Station
Farmington – Today, legislators from San Juan County expressed concerns with two members of the Public Regulation Commission, Cynthia Hall, and Steve Fischmann, as public record indicates both commissioners may have prejudged the outcome in the abandonment case of San Juan Generating Station (SJGS).
Public records indicate that PRC Commissioners Hall and Fischmann were biased in their efforts to close San Juan Generating Station as both Commissioners crafted language for the Energy Transition Act while also disparaging the continued use of a power plant many deem to be one of the cleanest in the nation.
“Through Inspection of Public Records Act requests there is clear evidence that both Commissioners Hall and Fischmann hold pre-determined positions in the closure case,” said State Representative Rod Montoya (R-San Juan), “Both Commissioners appear to have run for their current elected positions for the very purpose of closing down San Juan Generating Station.”
A proper and unprejudiced determination, in this case, is more imperative than ever. Moving forward with the closure of SJGS, in light of a prejudiced jury, will unfairly result in the loss of jobs relied on by 1500 families – Jobs that have been deemed “essential” during the current Covid-19 pandemic.
“New Mexicans expect impartiality, especially when 1500 jobs are at stake. You can’t be an impartial judge if you personally help craft language in the Energy Transition Act,” said Senator Bill Sharer (R-San Juan). “Any Commissioner who has already decided the fate of so many New Mexicans should immediately recuse themselves.”
Elected officials and community members in San Juan County have continued to express concerns that the closure of SJGS will dramatically harm the Central Consolidated School District, as 97% of the tax base for that school will be eliminated. In combination with the jobs and wages that will be lost, the permanent closure of San Juan Generating Station creates an impossible challenge for families living in the Central Consolidated School District.
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