Debate Over Qualifications Marks PSC Appointment of Jed JohnHope to Oversee Ferry Rates

Commissioners debate the qualifications of Jed JohnHope, a non-attorney consultant, in a heated meeting that concluded with his approval to investigate ferry franchise rates.

At Thursday's meeting of the Public Services Commission, Jed JohnHope was appointed hearing examiner to conduct rate reviews for the ferry franchisees. Mr. JohnHope, who briefly served on the board of the Water and Power Authority, is now a consultant who focuses on business development and innovation, according to his LinkedIn profile. Sandra Setorie, PSC executive director, said that agency staff recommended Mr. JohnHope as being best suited for the task after considering their list of previous hearing examiners as well as new respondents to a request for qualifications.

“He certainly meets the qualification for hearing examiner,” said Ms. Setorie, after disclosing that Mr. JohnHope was not an attorney. When asked whether he had any experience with ferry franchises, she said “with utilities, yes, but not specifically ferry franchises.” PSC Commissioners Raymond Williams and David Hughes spoke in favor of the appointment. “I know the individual and their capacity,” said Mr. Raymond Williams. Mr. Hughes declared that he “strongly supported” Mr. JohnHope, citing his personal and professional knowledge of the person in question.