PORT TOWNSEND — Jefferson County Public Utility District is entering into contract negotiations with Larry Dunbar for the general manager position that has been vacant since September.
Commissioners Jeff Randall and Kenneth Collins voted unanimously Friday to offer the position to Dunbar. Wayne King was absent.
Dunbar will replace Jim Parker, who left in September.
Since 2012, Dunbar has been energy services director for the city of Ellensburg. He previously was deputy director of power resources in Port Angeles for 12 years.
“After a long and lengthy process, we’ve selected our next general manager,” Randall said.
‘Has dealt with the issues’
“Larry stood out as a good fit for our PUD and for our current and future issues. He’s spent his entire career in utilities and has dealt with the issues we will be facing.”
Randall said the PUD has basically had the same manager for 23 years and “This is a critical opportunity as we are still evolving into the electrical utility it can be.”
“I’m looking forward to the general manager opportunity with Jefferson County PUD. I know my skills and abilities will be able to move the utility forward,” Dunbar said Saturday.
“I spent [last] Saturday through Tuesday exploring and getting reacquainted with the area. I’m familiar with the [North Olympic] Peninsula as I lived in Sequim for 12 years. It’s a beautiful place.”
Thirty people applied for the position, 18 of whom were forwarded on by the selection committee. Five people were interviewed Jan. 22-23, and two were recommended.
“On Thursday, Feb. 22, the finalists were interviewed and both were totally qualified,” Randall said.
The next step is for the PUD and Dunbar to begin discussions. The negotiating team includes Randall, counsel Don McDaniel, consultant Scott Fry and attorney Joel Paysner.
”Operations Manager Kevin Streett has done an outstanding job as acting interim general manager,” Randall said.
“We’ve been dealing with rate adjustments in electricity, water rates, facilities plans as well as the meter program. Kevin has been leading this organization very capably.”
Randall said he believes this negotiation will develop quickly and decisions could come as early as this week.
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Jefferson County Editor/Reporter Jeannie McMacken can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at jmcmacken@penin suladailynews.com.
