August 10, 2007
TO ALL WHO PAY AN ELECTRIC BILL
TO
BENTON COUNTY ELECTRIC SYSTEM
Before we begin the journey ahead of us and in the interest of clarity, may I say once again that my beef is with the MANAGEMENT of the Electric System.
Let us start at the beginning.
During the 1930’s and 40’s the Tennessee Valley Authority was born and began building dams on the Tennessee River. The General Assembly in Nashville, Tennessee passed what we know today as the MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC PLANT LAW OF 1935. This provision cleared the way for counties to own and operate electric systems. Sometime during the late thirties Benton County adopted this law, enabling the citizens to receive electricity throughout the county.
Members of Boards and Commissions out number elected officials and are necessary because of the growth and complexity of the government in meeting the needs of the people. We must realize that complete accountability of these members is an absolute necessity. There are laws that enable us in this cause but we must use them. In the case before us the Board’s performance has been indifferent and lackadaisical at best. Their lack of understanding regarding the duties and responsibilities of the Board has caused hardships on YOU the owners. This Board and many others operate under the authority and auspices of the County Commission. This august body has the responsibility to enforce the law.
For over a decade I have received numerous phone calls and have been engaged in many face-to-face conversations concerning our Electric System. One common misconception among the people was
“I thought the Electric Company was privately owned.” Of course, many complaints were discussed across the spectrum from the mundane to some very serious allegations. To say the least I was intrigued, realizing that where there is smoke the possibility of fire always exists. With folks reluctant to come forward and facts in short supply all one could do is listen.
Now things have changed and we must avail ourselves of this remarkable gift. That’s right. A very brave and courageous person(s) has blown the whistle on the Benton County Electric System. Alarming facts have come into the light of day for the first time in the history of the Electric System.
The ever-present undercurrent of anger and fear flowing across the county now has a chance to be heard. I will attempt to speak before the County Commission’s monthly meeting on August 20th. By resolution the Commission will be given a golden opportunity to approve a hearing on this matter. Yes, this is your chance to present facts and voice your displeasure.
If the County Commission approves the resolution calling for a hearing I will present my evidence of MALFEASANCE, MISSFEASANCE AND NONFEASANCE of the Benton County Electric System Board. I am prepared to present documented evidence and quote the necessary T.C.A. One way or the other our Commission is going to be on the record in this matter.
The SUN is up, come on down to the Courthouse and be a part of the hope that many never lived to see. There is no going back!
In closing, to those of you who have expressed your support of my endeavor to uncover the facts I say thank you.
Yet, the real thanks belong to the whistleblower and I say THANK YOU, WHISTLEBLOWER.
Henry Berry