Commissioner Tom Ramsey and State Representative Sam Harless Demand Answers from CenterPoint Executives
Amidst power outages affecting an extensive portion of Harris County, Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey and State Representative Sam Harless have demanded that CenterPoint Energy provide accurate, current information on their power restoration progress. The demands come in the wake of an outdated and vague outage map released by the energy company, showing Precinct 3, encompassing District 126, as one of the most afflicted areas.
Ramsey and Harless, both of whom represent constituents located in unincorporated Harris County, voiced their disappointment with CenterPoint's communication. “After specific requests to get answers, the most I received are generic maps. It’s completely unacceptable,” said Commissioner Tom Ramsey. “We’re asking basic questions like, ‘What is the plan for restoring power to residents? What are your priorities for power restoration?’ Yet we are getting nothing."
Aside from the distress of their constituents, the lack of precise information hampers local leaders' ability to effectively manage their response to the power outages. Both officials stand with their constituents in calling for specific and accurate updates on when power will be returned to residents. Throughout the week, Precinct 3 has demonstrated a timely and organized response to the havoc caused by Hurricane Beryl through a range of resources and services for constituents like cooling centers, food and water distribution, around-the-clock storm debris removal and more.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
In a recent press release, CenterPoint Energy assured that they are working tirelessly towards restoring power and expect to have service reinstated to 80% of impacted customers by the end of Sunday, July 14, 2024. The company also stated that by July 11, estimated restoration dates will be provided to 70% of currently disconnected customers, possibly even faster than predicted with subsequent progress.
The energy company, backed by a 12,000-strong workforce, explained their efforts focused on areas most affected by the storm, including Brazoria County, Fort Bend County, and the I-45 corridor to the Woodlands. These areas of substantial structural damage require significant work, including the installation of new distribution poles, overhead conductors, and other essential electrical equipment.
Despite CenterPoint Energy's assurances and efforts, the frustrations voiced by Commissioner Tom Ramsey and State Representative Sam Harless highlight a significant disconnect between the company's communication and the needs of the community. Accurate, timely information is critical in times of crisis, and the lack of it has left many residents and local leaders in the dark, both literally and figuratively. Ramsey and Harless's insistence on better communication is not only justified but necessary for building trust and ensuring effective response and recovery efforts.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
