56 



Changing Bonneville's status froni a federal agency to a government corporation may be 

 a way of achieving these goals, but there may be other approaches available that will work just as 

 well. The Western Public Agencies Group would support an effort to investigate thoroughly the 

 option of changing Bonneville's status to a government corporation to determine if it is the best 

 means to achieve a responsive and efficient Bonneville. 



Conclusion 



In summary, the Western Public Agencies Group suggests that: 



□ Giving Bonneville a one-time opportunity to refinance appropriated debt, if it can 

 be done without rate increases to Bonneville customers, should be pursued. 



□ Bormeville's future borrowings should continue to be financed at current rates 

 from the Treasury, and within Bonneville's current borrowing authority. 



□ Changing Boimeville's status from a federal agency to a government corporation 

 may result in a less constrained and more responsive Bonneville. 



□ There should be a thorough examination of the impacts of changes to 

 Bormeville's legal status, including ways of dealing with Boimeville's monopoly 

 market power as a government corporation. 



The Western Public Agencies Group appreciates this opportunity to offer our thoughts on 

 these issues, and we look forward to working with you to improve Bonneville and the power 

 system in the Pacific Northwest. 



