Letters to the Editor
Letter to the Editor | Why Paul Alvestad must remain on the PenLight board
For 26 years, Paul Alvestad has been one of the few directors consistently fighting for the rights of PenLight’s member‑owners. He has the experience, the backbone, and the historical knowledge that this cooperative cannot afford to lose.
Paul has been the board’s strongest voice for transparency, accountability, and member oversight — especially on major projects that could impact rates for years. When others were comfortable keeping plans behind closed doors, Paul insisted that members deserved the truth early, not after decisions were already made.
A cooperative works best when directors ask hard questions, challenge assumptions, and protect the interests of the people who actually own the utility. That’s exactly what Paul has done for decades. Removing a watchdog doesn’t strengthen a board — it weakens it.
PenLight needs independent thinkers, not rubber stamps.
It needs experience, not silence.
It needs Paul.
Joyce McCamman
Gig Harbor