Svendsen named new PUD manager

Svendsen said some of the biggest challenges the PUD is dealing with are the water and sewer projects for Lyle, Klickitat, and Glenwood.

"This is more and more demanding. We're chasing a changing target," Svendsen explained. "We're scrambling to keep up and investing a lot of effort, time and money to make sure our projects are up to date."

Svendsen, 50, lives in Goldendale. He has been with the PUD since 1976, when he graduated with a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Washington.

During his more than 25 years with the PUD, Svendsen has served in many capacities. He was the engineering and operations manager for 19 years, and then became the PUD's power manager, a position he held for almost five years.

Svendsen had a major role in the PUD's power generation projects, including the H.W. Hill Landfill Gas Plant, the McNary Dam Hydroelectric Project, and a wind generation partnership with the Last Mile Electric Co-op in Roosevelt.

The general manager position had been vacant since June, when Brian Skeahan left to take a similar position elsewhere.

"We are pleased with the board's decision and look forward to working with our new general manager," said Nadine Huxley, assistant manager for the PUD. "Tom's extensive knowledge of our utility's operation and local roots will make the transition straightforward."

Svendsen said he doesn't anticipate making any major changes.

"We have a good staff here, and I'll rely on them to continue what they're doing to keep the lights on and the power flowing," he explained.