Governor's undiplomatic firing of 'pit bull' hurts Utahns

A most unfortunate incident took place in our state government two weeks ago: the firing of Roger Ball, the director of the Consumer Service Committee.

I am sad, mad, chagrined and embarrassed that our state government would stoop so low. The firing was uncalled for and the method was outrageous, to say the least. Roger was called into the commerce director's office, fired and told to be out of his office in 20 minutes. No ifs, ands or buts. No reason. Orders from the office of the governor.

I don't think that our diplomatic governor has ever had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Ball, but the method of the firing certainly doesn't fall into the category I know of "diplomacy."

Most times under a new governor, changes are made. As an ex- legislator, I'm very aware of this. But most employees are given notice and time to resign or otherwise be replaced or step down from their appointed positions. Mr. Ball was not.

The public needs an explanation. As a former member of the Consumer Service Committee, I need an explanation. Mr. Ball has served the state for seven years. I was on the committee when he was hired, and we spent considerable time choosing someone who knew the utility business and was of the caliber to deal with all the players.

Now I read where some players thought he was a "pit bull" and could not get along with the utility lobbyists. That he was not fair with them. My experience says otherwise.

Roger was paid to look out for the citizens of this state and keep utility bills as low as possible without hurting the utility companies. Many times the raises they asked for were approved by our committee as being fair. Of course, if you don't get your way at all times, it isn't "fair." Kindergarten thinking.

This committee was set up to protect the public. It was deemed to not be involved in politics. It is paid for by the utility users, and the committee serves without pay. It officed away from the power brokers, so as not to be bound by political rhetoric or undue influence.

It seems like when the politicians can't control it, they get rid of it. If it protects the public interest, it must be a bad thing.

Roger did what the committee and the public wanted him to do. He did it well. He stood up for the citizens' welfare and ruffled some feathers. Political ambitions and campaign promises are trying to scuttle the last committee in Utah to serve the public interest. It will be a sad and bitter ending.

I can only say: Thanks, Roger. I would like to volunteer to be the chairman of the "Pit Bull" volunteers of Utah and would be honored to have you on my team. Thank you so much for service rendered.

Beverly J. White of Tooele is a former Utah state legislator.

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