Focus Put On 2000 By Utilities Panel

The Idaho Public Utilities Commission has created a new position to help make sure that the state’s utilities are prepared for computer problems in 2000.

David Schunke, utilities division deputy administrator, will take on a temporary assignment as commission coordinator for the year 2000.

“There’s a lot of work that needs to be done, but we’re optimistic that our power will be on and telephones will work January 1st of the year 2000,” Schunke said.

Schunke will work with utility companies under the commission’s jurisdiction.

Electric, natural gas, telecommunications and large water companies already have submitted reports to the commission outlining how they will prepare for computer problems in 2000.