Grant PUD Commission terminates general manager

EPHRATA, Wash. – After a three week personnel review, Grant PUD commissioners today agreed to terminate General Manager Tim Culbertson.

“In our judgment, Mr. Culbertson’s decision to maintain a relationship with another utility employee makes it impossible for him to discharge his unique responsibilities as general manager without the appearance of a conflict of interest,” said Commission President Tom Flint. “The potential for such conflicts, whether actual or apparent, undermines the trust and confidence that the Board of Commissioners and utility employees must have in his professional judgment for him to continue to effectively lead the organization. This is why we believe a change is necessary. Our concern is the potential effects of that relationship on the utility. Whereas here, we believe those effects are or likely will be adverse to the utility’s interests, we must act accordingly. Mr. Culbertson made many positive contributions to our collective success and led the District with great skill for several years. We are grateful for his past efforts, and we wish him success in the future.”

Concurrent with this action, commissioners placed Grant PUD Assistant General Managers, Chuck Berrie and Anthony Webb, in charge of utility operations until a hiring process is determined.