< Back

For Immediate Release: 06/21/19

John B. Rhodes, Chair

Contact:

John Chirlin | John.Chirlin@dps.ny.gov | (518) 474-7080

http://www.dps.ny.gov

http://twitter.com/NYSDPS

 
   
19056
June 21, 2019

Edwards and Howard Confirmed to Serve as PSC Commissioners

Public Service Commissioners Advocate for New York’s Ratepayers, While Ensuring Reliability and Safety of Utility Service

ALBANY — The New York State Public Service Commission announced today that Tracey A. Edwards and John B. Howard were confirmed by the New York State Senate to serve as a commissioners of the New York Public Service Commission (PSC). Consistent with the Public Service Law, the two were nominated by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo.

“I am pleased to welcome Tracey and John to the Commission,” said Commission Chair John B. Rhodes. “I am confident that their talent, wisdom, and experience will help us drive policies that are right for New York and that stand up for New York’s customers.”

Tracey A. Edwards has significant experience in the telecommunications industry, working for Verizon and its predecessor for nearly 40 years. She served on the Huntington Town Council from 2014 until 2017.

John B. Howard brings more than 16 years of experience in the energy sector to the Commission. He has served in Governor Cuomo’s administration since 2011, most recently as Director of Chamber Operations. He also served as the Chief of Staff for Congressman Paul D. Tonko when he was Chair of the Assembly Energy Committee.

Ms. Edwards said: “I thank Governor Cuomo for giving me the opportunity to join the Public Service Commission. I am honored, and upon assuming the role of PSC Commissioner, my focus will be on meeting the Governor’s clean energy and carbon goals to combat climate change and continue the excellent work of the PSC to reform the energy industry to be more consumer-focused, efficient, and environmentally friendly.”

Mr. Howard said: “I am deeply honored to be joining the Public Service Commission in New York. I share the Commission’s commitment to build an energy system that is cleaner, affordable and more resilient through the greater use of renewable energy and energy efficiency. I am honored that Governor Cuomo has entrusted me to help advance New York’s robust clean energy initiatives.”

Departing Commissioner, Gregg C. Sayre was appointed on June 21, 2012, his term began on July 9, 2012 and ran through February 1, 2018. On March 9, 2017, Governor Cuomo designated Mr. Sayre as Interim Chairman of the Public Service Commission and Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Public Service, he served in this capacity until June 21, 2017.

“On behalf of Governor Cuomo, I would like to express my utmost appreciation for the work Commissioner Sayre has done over the past seven years to help ensure the citizens of New York State receive safe and reliable utility service,” said Chair Rhodes. “Commissioner Sayre has played a key role during his tenure as Commissioner, including being called upon by Governor Cuomo to oversee the agency for a four-month period in 2017. Commissioner Sayre has been engaged in all issues put before the Commission, most notably in the telecommunication sector. His advice and counsel have always been highly sought after and valued by other Commissioners and staff. For me personally, he has been a terrific colleague and friend.”

The PSC regulates the state's electric, gas, steam, telecommunications, and water utilities. The PSC also oversees the cable industry. The PSC is charged by law with the responsibility for setting rates and ensuring that adequate service is provided by New York's utilities. In addition, the PSC exercises jurisdiction over the siting of major gas and electric transmission facilities and has responsibility for ensuring the safety of natural gas and liquid petroleum pipelines.

Bipartisan by law since 1970, the PSC consists of up to five members, each appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the State Senate for a term of six years or to complete an unexpired term of a former Commissioner. 

###
Copyright © 2024 New York State. All rights reserved. | Our Privacy Policy
Back