It’s amazing what you hear when you really listen.

Since taking office on the state Corporation Commission, I have continued efforts to meet with Oklahomans from all sectors to listen and learn about ways to work together to improve and increase the effectiveness of state services. I have logged more than 5,000 miles at my own expense and participated in more than 90 meetings across the state, in addition to the regular daily public meetings the commission holds. I consider it investing in good government.

What have I heard? Plenty.

I have heard surprise, appreciation, enthusiasm and perhaps a touch of understandable skepticism here and there.

I have heard worry. Worry from our oil and gas producers facing needless federal regulation on hydraulic fracturing and massive tax increases that could put some out of business. Worry from consumers concerned and frustrated by rate increase proposals from two of our largest utilities. Worry from the utility companies about their ability to maintain reliable, cost-effective service without increases. Worry from my agency’s employees, facing unpaid furlough days for at least six months because of a cut in state funding.

The worry is not only about finances, but about the impact on the state’s economy and regulated businesses, as the agency will close once a month from at least August through January.

I heard a desire to move forward with business and job development, while still taking into account the rights of others. Such was the case at a recent meeting I chaired with over 200 oil and gas producers, mineral owners, surface owners and others on issues involving horizontal drilling, or at a meeting with officials on railroad projects for the Avard and Ardmore areas, or at the sessions I’ve had with other state commissioners, utility professionals and ratepayer groups discussing current issues on transmission and energy matters.

Listening can open doors that lead to action. As a result of the meeting on horizontal drilling, the commission is forming working groups to address the issues raised.

Although the commission does not have authority over siting of transmission lines and poles, affected residents and local officials voiced concern about the placement of such poles and lines. I helped open lines of communication among these groups, the utility company and local legislators, who are working together to find solutions.

Journalist Walter Lippman observed, “While the right to talk may be the beginning of freedom, the necessity of listening is what makes the right important.”

Let’s keep listening and talking so your Oklahoma Corporation Commission can better serve you in the future.

Commission Web site: Click Here

Commissioner Murphy can be reached at the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, P.O. Box 52000, Oklahoma City, OK 73152-2000.