By Walter Moore, Candidate For Mayor Of Los Angeles, WalterMoore For Mayor.com

The Department of Water and Power (DWP) is managed by the Board of Water and Power Commissioners, whose members are appointed by, and serve at the pleasure of, Mayor Villaraigosa.

On February 8, 2008, the DWP Board voted to raise electric rates 9% over three years, and water rates by 6% over two years. 

However, just four days later, on February 12, 2008, that same commission approved the transfer, to the City, of over $215 million in so-called “surplus funds” from the sale of water and power last year.

In other words, Villaraigosa’s commissioners operated the DWP at a profit; transferred that profit to the City’s general fund; and want to raise your rates despite that massive profit.

That profit, moreover, is in addition to, not instead of, the taxes you pay for your water and power. 

You really need a new mayor, my friend.  You need someone who’s on top of this stuff, and who will appoint commissioners that won’t gouge you. 

Getting mad isn’t enough.  If you really want a good mayor, contribute to my campaign and urge your friends to do the same.  We can win, but it’s going to take some of your “surplus funds.”