April 10, 2017
Province Appoints New Members to Public Utilities Board
The Manitoba government has appointed Robert Vandewater and Michael Watson to the Public Utilities Board (PUB), which regulates the rates charged by all water and sewer utilities outside Winnipeg as well as by Manitoba Hydro, Manitoba Public Insurance, and gas and propane utilities in the province, Finance Minister Cameron Friesen announced today.
“As our government charts a course of fiscal responsibility, we welcome these talented Manitobans to the Public Utilities Board,” said Friesen. “Their extensive knowledge and experience in the areas of finance and accounting make them valuable additions to the PUB as it makes decisions in full consideration of the best interests of Manitoba taxpayers and ratepayers.”
Vandewater has worked in the investment industry for 54 years and recently retired as vice-president and member of the senate for CIBC Wood Gundy. His experience extends beyond the investment industry, having served on a variety of boards across Canada. Additionally, he is an active volunteer on the investment committees of a number of charities and not-for-profit corporations including the Chartered Accountants of Manitoba.
Watson has worked in the hotel industry for more than 20 years including most recently as controller at the Fort Garry Hotel. He operates both an accounting and consulting business as well as a real estate development company. In his spare time, Watson coaches and manages various sports teams and participates in the local Rotary Club.
The new board appointments are three-year terms effective immediately.
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