State Representatives Teresa Martinez and Chris Lopez have raised concerns with the Residential Utility Consumer Office (RUCO) regarding its response to residents of Legislative District 16. These residents sought assistance in two rate cases involving Picacho Water & Sewer Company, a foreign-owned utility that has filed for what they consider excessive rate increases.
In a letter addressed to RUCO’s Director, the representatives criticized the agency for its slow response and refusal to intervene on behalf of constituents. “RUCO exists to stand up for utility consumers, not ignore them,” said Representative Martinez. She highlighted the frustration of constituents facing steep hikes and receiving no support from the Governor’s office.
The letter from Martinez and Lopez requests detailed information from RUCO about how it manages consumer inquiries, including logging and tracking calls, response timelines, and handling of constituent contacts related to the Picacho cases. They also seek specific dates when calls were received and responses given.
Representative Lopez emphasized the need for accountability: “We’re pressing for answers because these families deserve accountability,” he said. “Ratepayers shouldn’t be left in the dark when they turn to the very office meant to advocate for them.”
Martinez was elected as a Republican representative in 2023, succeeding John Fillmore in Arizona’s 16th House District. The full text of their letter can be accessed at https://www.azleg.gov/press/house/57LEG/1R/250929MartinezLopezRUCO.pdf.
Information from this article can be found here.
