Board confirms Anson Moran to Public Utilities Commission after divided debate and failed continuance motion

The Board of Supervisors confirmed Anson Moran to the Public Utilities Commission by roll call vote after multiple supervisors debated his qualifications and philosophy and after rejecting a request to continue the confirmation for one week.

Supervisor Campos said he voted against the nomination in committee and raised concerns about Mr. Moran’s record as a former general manager of a utilities agency and whether his philosophy aligned with supporters of public power. Campos said that while Moran had relevant experience, ‘‘experience alone does not mean that you should sit on one of these commissions’’ and urged more vetting. Supervisor Abelos and others requested a one‑week continuance to speak with the nominee about past workplace and pay equity allegations that arose during Moran’s earlier tenure; Moran was not present at the meeting.

Supervisor Daly and others who supported the nomination said Moran had answered committee questions thoughtfully and had relevant management experience. The motion to continue the nomination to July 21 failed 5 ayes, 6 noes. The Board then voted on the underlying appointment; the roll call recorded nine ayes and two noes and the appointment was approved.

Why it matters: The Public Utilities Commission handles utility regulation and franchise oversight and will play a role if the city pursues municipal energy or community choice aggregation efforts.

Votes and next steps: The continuance motion failed (5–6); the confirmation passed on roll call (9–2). Moran will fill the seat for the unexpired portion of a two‑year term ending 08/01/2010.