BPA/Council thank-you letter to participants and commentors concluding the Phase I public input period

[BPA and Council letterhead]

November 4, 2002

Dear Interested Persons:

The public process jointly sponsored by the Northwest Power Planning Council (Council) and the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) regarding potential changes to BPA's power supply role after 2006 has now ended. We have received over 400 comments and/or proposals. In addition, nearly 1,000 people attended the six public meetings held throughout the region.

We would like to thank each and every one of you who took the time from your busy lives to develop and present proposals and comments regarding these important regional energy issues. We are equally grateful to those who attended the six public meetings that were held in late September.

The Council is now formulating recommendations to the region and BPA based on your input and the Council's own analyses of the issues. These recommendations will be presented to BPA by early December for its consideration as BPA develops its draft proposal. During the next few months, BPA will continue discussions with customers, the Council, and other interested stakeholders in order to share ideas and further understand proposals and comments. In early 2003, BPA intends to publish its draft proposal, at which point there will be a formal public process, including public meetings and a comment period. A final decision from BPA is expected in mid-2003.

We look forward to your continued interest and participation regarding these important regional energy issues.

Sincerely,