In a dimly lit room filled with concerned residents, the Maryland Public Service Commission held a public comment hearing on March 26, 2024, where frustrations with Pepco's service took center stage. One resident passionately voiced their grievances, highlighting a troubling pattern of neglect and miscommunication from the utility company.

The speaker, who identified themselves as a long-time Pepco customer, expressed deep dissatisfaction with the company's failure to address ongoing issues, including frequent power outages and safety hazards created by improperly managed infrastructure. They recounted a personal experience where their complaints about outages went unheard until they attended a previous hearing, illustrating the limited avenues for residents to voice their concerns.

For over two years, the resident had been trying to get Pepco to address the dangerous blind spots created by newly installed metal poles in their neighborhood. Despite repeated calls and assurances from the company, the situation remained unresolved, putting the community at risk. "We seriously could not see incoming traffic," they lamented, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.

The resident also criticized Pepco for what they perceived as deceptive practices, claiming that the replacement of wooden poles with larger metal ones exacerbated visibility issues rather than improving safety. Their frustration culminated in a plea for better communication and accountability from the utility provider, urging Pepco to stop treating customers with "apathetic" disregard.

In a final note, the speaker pointed out the deteriorating condition of a transformer located in their yard, which had not been maintained for decades. They expressed a sense of helplessness, stating that their only option seemed to be to paint it themselves after numerous unsuccessful attempts to get Pepco to take action.

As the hearing concluded, the resident's call for change resonated with many in attendance, highlighting a broader sentiment among Marylanders: the need for Pepco to prioritize customer care and community safety. The Public Service Commission's role in facilitating these discussions remains crucial, as residents seek a more responsive and responsible utility service.