Rethink rate hike, Avista

Rate increases again? Maybe corporate needs to weed out extraneous administrative managerial expenses – like tax-deductible business entertainment, lunches and trips for the same time frame that it takes our economy to recover. Say, 10 percent for each year that we are in this recession. I am sure that your general work force gets the same considerations for raises, bonuses and benefits as those in top managerial positions.

All other businesses have had to cut or freeze wages. Why can’t Avista do the same? I know that they are unionized. Why not give bonuses when appropriate and freeze or cut wages until this economy speeds up, like what is happening with the majority of Avista’s customers and small business?

As far as Avista keeping up salaries and bonuses with other utilities, why not modify that thinking with keeping pace with other business in the area rather than other utilities?

If you keep going with the rate increases with the economy’s continual downward spiral, there will be more people waiting in line for help than there are people donating to the assistance program you sponsor – if that isn’t the case already.

Carol Echtenkamp

Spokane