INDIANAPOLIS (September, 2 2009) - Sen. Mike Delph (R-Carmel) will join constituents tonight at the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) public hearing on its investigation into electric utility tree trimming practices. 

"This meeting is a great opportunity for people to share their views on the ways to improve the current practices used to trim trees in our communities," Delph said. "I believe we all need to work together to work towards a solution that protects Hoosier property owner's rights, while also maintaining the necessary infrastructure for safe and dependable electric service."

Delph has been working closely with the Traders Point Association of Neighborhoods, whose neighborhood's trees were trimmed in 2005.

"Local residents believe there is a way to allow the utility companies to trim as necessary to have safe and reliable power and still protect property rights and not butcher our trees," said Steve Jones, president of the Traders Point Association of Neighborhoods. "We hope to work with Indianapolis Power and Light and the state to find a common ground for future trimmings."

Delph said the meeting will be conducted at Pike High School, 5401 W. 71st St., Indianapolis, at 6 p.m. and he encouraged any citizen concerned about this issue to attend the meeting and share their opinions.

Before tonight's IURC's hearing, the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) will conduct a brief informational meeting on tree trimming at 5:30 p.m.

Recently, the OUCC - the state agency that represents the interests of residential, commercial and industrial utility customers - recommended establishing uniform vegetation management standards for all electric utilities under its jurisdiction. Their recommendation included guidelines for providing notice to property owners before trimming, appropriate dispute resolution practices and enhanced consumer education.

Delph said if people could not attend the meeting, they could submit comments by e-mail at uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov or by mail to:

Consumer Services Staff
Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor
115 W. Washington St. Suite 1500 South
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Written comments should include name, mailing address and a reference to IURC Cause No. 43663. Additional information on this case - including a link to the OUCC's testimony - is available at www.in.gov/oucc/2555.htm

Delph represents Senate District 29, which includes portions of Hamilton and Marion counties.

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