It is fitting and proper that the Governor vetoed the “Smart Grid” Bill. Commonwealth Edison, in all its iterations, has proven itself to be a poor steward of this precious manmade resource upon which we have come to greatly depend.
In failing to maintain equipment and continuing to deliver power in much the same manner as Thomas Edison did, they have demonstrated more concern for the shareholders than those paying for the service. In fact, it is my belief the failure of ComEd to do preventative maintenance is akin to criminally indifferent behavior, in that the lives of maintenance crews are put in jeopardy each time they must make repairs during a storm or inclement weather.
At public meetings we are repeatedly told by representatives that burying the lines to protect them from the weather is neither fiscally prudent nor efficient. I believe the financial aspect of that answer is the driving factor in all their action – that which produces higher dividends, not better service.
Tree trimming is done with indifference and callous disregard for homeowners. Communication with the service centers is difficult at best and information is often wrong or at best misleading.
The retort that we have alternative providers is also hollow, as ComEd is still the owner of the delivery system.
When you are the only game in town, you have the obligation to be the very best that you can be. Commonwealth Edison has certainly failed in all aspects save profit.
— John Quinn Mucker, Oak Lawn
