Pay, Utility Rates Are Sensitive Matters

“Gauging the Sensitivity of CEO Pay Pays Off Big Time” (Jan. 8) describes John Bryson’s compensation package as low-risk. In fact, the SCEcorp board in successive steps has made Bryson’s compensation one of the most performance-based in the utility industry. Approximately two-thirds of Bryson’s compensation is totally at risk based on company results.

In the view of SCEcorp’s board of directors, these steps have resulted in a sound balance between base salary and performance-based compensation for the chief executive of one of the nation’s leading energy providers.

CHARLES D. MILLER

Chairman,

Compensation Committee

SCEcorp Board of Directors

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As utility customers, we are concerned, to say the least, about the approved rate increases for Southern California Edison and Southern California Gas Co.

Even though we--and I must believe, others--commented upon the proposed increases, our “unresponsive government” approved such requests. Haven’t the PUC members read about the economic conditions that exist--they haven’t gone away yet--and the continued layoffs?

What about the bonus plans that people like SCEcorp’s CEO receive even though they are rated lowest on the scale of risk or “accountability”? Haven’t the PUC members read about that either?

The next time that a news story is carried about layoffs, companies moving out of California, or right-sizing, the PUC should carefully read and listen to what is being said and then recall the bonus plans and the accountability the utility execs are receiving.

With all the economic conditions that exist today, it is imperative that utility cost increases be controlled.

PETER and LINDA BRYAN

Rancho Cucamonga