Having lived in Arizona for 25 years, I've witnessed firsthand the tremendous growth and transformation of our state. Our communities are expanding, new data centers are emerging, and our population is becoming more diverse. Yet, amidst these changes, one critical aspect remains unchanged: the exclusion of over 250,000 Salt River Project (SRP) ratepayers from having a say in utility governance. This lack of representation is unacceptable, and now more than ever, we must address this issue to prevent escalating utility costs and potential energy shortages in our future.

SRP, unlike other utilities in Arizona, is not regulated by the Arizona Corporation Commission, the body responsible for overseeing utility companies and ensuring they operate fairly and transparently. Instead, SRP operates independently, and as a result, many of its decisions regarding crucial matters such as decarbonization, rate hikes, and the establishment of new power plants are made without consulting the majority of its customers. Shockingly, many SRP customers are not even aware that SRP conducts elections that influence these significant decisions.

This is a call to action for the Arizona Legislature and SRP to take steps toward inclusive governance. Every ratepayer should have the right to vote and voice their concerns about decisions that impact their everyday lives and financial well-being. Alternatively, we believe that the logical step is to subject SRP to regulation by the Arizona Corporation Commission to ensure that decisions made are equitable and serve the best interests of all Arizonans.

With the influx of data centers and increased demand for energy, it's crucial that we act now. If left unaddressed, we risk facing outrageous utility costs and the nightmare of rolling blackouts due to inadequate capacity. The voices of all SRP ratepayers must be empowered to shape a sustainable and fair energy future for Arizona.

Please join me in urging SRP and our state legislators to update SRP's governance and include all ratepayers in the decision-making process. Your signature can make a difference in bringing about necessary regulatory changes that will benefit us all. Sign the petition now to ensure a more inclusive and sustainable future for Arizona's energy management.