Commissioner Bentz Proceeds in Review of Total Environmental Solutions, Inc.(TESI)

Commissioner Leonard Bentz responded to Total Environmental Solutions, Inc (TESI) customers on Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at the Special Public Hearing regarding allegations against (TESI) of violation of rules and regulations governing public utility service.

“TESI has failed as a whole to give its customers information or reasonable assistance, provide adequate service, or to respond to customer complaints. I have regulated a lot of utility companies in my time at the Commission, and none, not even the ones with a lager customer base, have the issues that TESI has,” Bentz said.

About 35 TESI customers filled room 205 at the State Building in Biloxi. Many told of the problems with discolored water, water with extreme sediment and/or water with a bad odor, and the lack of proper notification of boil water notices.

The Commission may find that TESI is subject to a penalty for $5,000 for each violation for each day that the violation continues. Because the allegations affect quality of service, TESI’s certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to operate and provide service may also be forfeited if the deficiencies are not corrected.

Consumers may contact Commissioner Leonard Bentz’s office at 1-800-356-6429 for any questions regarding a utility or the No-Call List.

The Public Service Commission regulates telecommunications, electric, gas, water and sewer utilities. The Public Service Commission also regulates the No-Call List. The agency is charged with assuring that rates and charges for services are just and reasonable, that the service rendered is reasonably adequate, and that any facilities constructed or acquired are required for the convenience and necessity of the public. Additionally, the agency exercises safety jurisdiction over gas pipelines and has area jurisdiction over all public utilities. In carrying out its responsibilities, the Commission answers complaints, conducts investigations