Two named to NY Public Service Commission

Tracey Edwards and John Howard were confirmed by the New York State Senate to serve as commissioners of the New York Public Service Commission (PSC).

“I am pleased to welcome Tracey and John to the Commission,” Commission Chair John Rhodes said. “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.”

They were both nominated by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

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

“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,” Edwards said.

Howard has worked in the energy sector for 16 years. He also served in Cuomo’s administration since 2011, most recently as Director of Chamber Operations. Further, he worked as the Chief of Staff for Rep. Paul Tonko when he was chair of the Assembly Energy Committee.

“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,” Howard said.

Gregg Sayre, who had been on the commission since 2012, will depart.

“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,” Rhodes said. “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.”