Forums Begin into Probe of Last Month’s Ice Storm Response

The first of three public hearings will be held beginning tonight to allow customers of the Lansing Board of Water and Light to talk with the man charged with finding out what went wrong during last month's ice storm and how to prevent a repeat in the future. 

Thousands were without power--some for nearly 2 weeks.  At issue is whether the company was prepared to handle the situation.  General Manager Peter Lark has been criticized for leaving town to visit his son after the storm hit.  He has since apologized calling it a bad decision.  But he says he was in constant communication with those conducting the operation to restore power.  Changes, including hiring more dispatchers and line workers, have already been offered in response to the issue.

Retired Brigadier General Michael McDaniel has been named by Lansing Mayor Virg Bernaro to head up the investigation.  Although he has had dealings with Lark in the past, McDaniel says there is no conflict of interest and he will show no special treatment to the beleagured utility chief or anyone else.

Tonight's forum is at 6 o'clock at the Hannah Community Center in East Lansing.  A meeting set for Thursday will be held in Delta Township with a final meeting on Friday in Lansing.