V. Comments on Draft Decision

The draft decision of the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) in this matter was mailed to the parties on June 15, 2001, in accordance with Section 311(g)(3) of the Public Utilities Code.

At the PHC, the ALJ discussed whether the time for commenting on the draft decision should be shortened so that a decision regarding the well drilling could be issued in a timely manner. (PHC, R.T. p. 19.) None of the parties who attended the PHC objected to the two-phased approach, or to shortening the time for filing comments on the draft decision.

Rule 77.7(f)(9) provides for reduction or waiver of the 30-day period for public review and comment when public necessity requires such reduction. We must balance whether the public necessity of adopting an order outweighs the public interest in having the full 30-day period for review and comment. We are convinced that this decision falls under Rule 77.7(f)(9), and for that reason, we establish a shortened period for comments on the draft decision. As discussed herein, the decision must be issued expeditiously so that well drilling can begin soon.

The proposal is intended to increase the supplies of flowing gas and to help avert electricity blackouts. Parties may file comments on the Draft Decision with the Docket Office no later than June 25, 2001. Anyone filing comments shall serve the parties to the service list by electronic mail, or if no electronic address is available, by overnight mail. No reply comments will be permitted.