http://ipraudio.interlochen.org/LightPowerQAs.mp3
A few months back, officials at Traverse City Light and Power were in the hot seat over a plan to burn wood to generate electricity at a new in-town power plant. Fierce public opposition swashed that plan. But the debate is not over.
This November, city voters will have to decide whether they're happy with the way the utility is structured.
TC Light & Power enflamed some of its critics again this week with a flier critics feel was too political.
Former Mayor Mike Estes says it's time for major change. Current Mayor Chris Bzdock says it's not so wise to put the public's safety into the hands of politicians.
Play the audio above for our chats with Estes and Bzdock on the utility.
Petition language for the related two proposals city residents will find on their ballots this November:
Petition for an election, on a request to amend the Traverse City Charter, to provide that the City Commission shall have the exclusive jurisdiction, power and duty to construct, acquire, expand and operate the light and power system, and to limit the Light & Power Board['s] power to acting in an advisory capacity to the City Commission.
AND
Petition for an election, on a request to amend the Traverse City Charter, to provide that any decision to build or acquire a power generation facility shall be subject to referendum by the voters, in the manner set forth in the Traverse City Charter.