You’re invited: PUBCAP Goes Virtual

The Public Utilities Board Consumer Advisory Panel (PUBCAP) came back in September after a long absence because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but things were a little bit different this time: the meeting was held virtually.

PUBCAP serves a critical role for the Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB). Composed of 10 community members and one BPUB employee liaison, PUBCAP acts as a link between the community and BPUB. Panel members provide valuable input on BPUB project, bring up community concerns or problems, ask questions about BPUB practices, and allow customers to have a forum for feedback.
Shortly before the March PUBCAP meeting is when lockdown orders began circulating through Texas, causing a delay in PUBCAP meetings.

That delay lengthened as the pandemic intensified, but BPUB started working behind the scenes to figure out ways to bring back PUBCAP for its new year (which traditionally starts in September).

Webex was incorporated for the first virtual PUBCAP meeting, at which new PUBCAP members were introduced, new officers were appointed and a presentation that provided an overview of BPUB was given. Being the first meeting back, it provided an opportunity for questions to be asked about how BPUB has reacted under COVID-19 and what support has been available to customers during this uncertain time.

PUBCAP meetings will continue to be held virtually until further notice. While it’s unfortunate that the group isn’t able to meet in person, the advantage of this is that it makes it easier for the community to join in. Now you can listen to a PUBCAP meeting by dialing in on your phone. Use a tablet, computer or smart device to log in to the meeting and view any presentations as they are given or provide feedback yourself.

PUBCAP meetings are typically held the third Wednesday of the month. Information on how to access the meeting will be sent out in the days preceding the meeting. Be sure to like BPUB on Facebook or follow BPUB on Twitter for all the meeting details.