By Jake Kincaid | Casa Grande Dispatch
Administrative Law Judge Sarah Harping, who presided over the evidentiary hearing on Johnson Utilities’ operations, has recommended that the Arizona Corporation Commission appoint an interim manager for the company owned by George Johnson.
The order and recommended opinion was released earlier than anticipated and orders staff to immediately begin efforts to obtain an agreement with an interim manager.
The judge also suggested that Johnson Utilities fully cooperate with the interim manager and hand over all necessary documents and records, whether they are in the possession of Johnson Utilities or related companies Hunt Management or Ultra Management.
The unusual management structure controlled by the Johnson family is the first thing stated in the conclusion.
“Ultimately something had to be done to right the Johnson Utilities’ ship, but this is going to have major short and mid-term impacts on developers and homebuilders with interests in Johnson’s service territory. Understanding the potential impact to timelines for development and cost changes is going to be essential.”
