The Chelan PUD Board of Commissioners has extended the contract for General Manager Kirk Hudson through December 2029.
Hudson, a 28-year veteran of the utility, has served as General Manager since 2022, guiding Chelan PUD with a steady focus on its mission to deliver bold, enduring value for customers.
Under Hudson’s leadership, Chelan PUD has achieved major milestones, including:
• Service Center opening: Consolidating operations into a new campus to improve customer service and enhance efficiency.
• Financial strength: Maintaining AA+ bond ratings, among the highest in the nation for public utilities, allowing reinvestment into community priorities.
• Environmental stewardship: Successfully implementing habitat conservation plans, resulting in the best Chinook survival study in twenty years.
• Clean energy innovation: Hosting the region’s inaugural Clean Energy Expo and partnering with Helion to site the world’s first fusion power plant on PUD property.
• Large load framework: Implementing a policy to protect low rates and reliable service as power demand rises.
• Park upgrades: The largest series of improvements since their construction, adding the new splash pad, apple-themed playground, widened trail segments, and separate lanes for bikes and pedestrians along the Apple Capital Loop Trail.
“Kirk is the right leader to guide Chelan PUD into the future,” Board President Steve McKenna said. “His focus on customers, delivering reliable service, and preparing for the needs of future generations aligns with our Imagine 2075 vision – now and into the future.”
“Kirk has helped us imagine what’s possible and begin the work to make it happen,” Commissioner Garry Arsenault said. “This is exactly the kind of leadership we need right now, ensuring the PUD is focused on the best interests of our customers and communities.”
