Christy

HARRISBURG — Gov. Tom Corbett has nominated Pamela Witmer to replace Tyrone Christy of Renfrew as a member of the state Public Utility Commission.

Witmer’s nomination must be confirmed by the state Senate and should take a few weeks to complete.

Christy said Wednesday he appreciates the four years he has spent as a commissioner.

“I was given a fantastic opportunity when Gov. (Ed) Rendell appointed me to the PUC,” he said. “I am a registered Democrat and Gov. Corbett is a Republican, so I expected this when my term ran out.”

Christy, who has spent most of his professional career in the private sector, said it’s time to get back there.

“It’s time for me to get back to the private sector and back to energy projects,” he said.

Witmer currently leads the energy and environment practice for Harrisburg-based Bravo Group, a governmental and public relations firm. From 2000 to 2007, she was president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Chemical Industry Council, a trade association. She formerly served as a legislative liaison for the state Department of Environmental Protection.

Witmer earned a bachelor’s degree in public service from the Pennsylvania State University. She lives in Hummelstown, Dauphin County.

The PUC says its goal is to oversee utilities to see that they provide safe and reliable service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

The PUC has five, full-time members who serve staggered, five-year terms. Commissioners set policy on matters affecting utility rates and services, as well as on personnel, budget, fiscal and administrative matters.