MSR 2002-2 - Public Service Commission of West Virginia

Public Service Commission — Management Summary Report
systems, developed numerous new reports for existing systems, and efficiently rolled out
new computer equipment required to keep the PSC running effectively.
The Human Resources Section is responsible for administering a $13.6 million personnel
budget. The Section is also responsible for processing payroll, tax, benefits and other human
resources related directives for currently 298 permanent employees, to a potential maximum
of 335 permanent employees. In 2006 the Human Resources Section developed several new
policies for the PSC. One of these policies successfully implemented by the agency was a
revised Smoking Policy, incorporating changes to comply with the Clean Indoor Air Regulation
of 2003. The Section was also involved with the development of a new “Security and Loss
Prevention” policy. Other key policies are still in development. Also in 2006 close to 30 new
hires were necessary to fill positions left vacant by employee separations. A behavioral based
panel interview process implemented in 2006 by this Section made the hiring of new employees
a more challenging and time intensive process; however, we believe that this interviewing
process has helped bring better and more qualified new employees to the PSC. As a tool for
the hiring process and also a move toward electronic record retention, scanning of applications
and position posting materials allow these materials to be made available to hiring management
via a webpage. This internal accomplishment, coupled with the WV Division of Personnel’s
new register system and online application filing capability allow access and review of candidate
qualifications in a more efficient and timely fashion.
During 2006, the Public Information Section continued its efforts to disseminate the Public
Service Commission’s message and pertinent case information to members of the public,
media and government. The Section also maintained its presence at certain fairs, festivals and
public meetings throughout the state, and continued to send press releases regarding
Commission disposition of cases, information on new applications filed, public hearings
conducted and many other subjects. These releases were not only forwarded to statewide
media outlets, but also to trade magazines throughout the United States. In addition, the Section
fielded more than 900 media telephone inquiries and 275 email inquiries.
The Public Information Section also works closely with other Divisions in efforts to better
inform and educate the public. In coordination with the PSC’s Transportation Division, media
attention was facilitated for “Click-It-or-Ticket” and “Be Ready, Be Buckled” blitzes.
Additionally, a “Hot Topics” section was added to the PSC website as a result of the combined
efforts of the Public Information Section, Information Technology Section and the Executive
Secretary outlining current issues with widespread impact. Those individuals plus the Director
of the Water and Wastewater Division form the committee charged with the soon-to-be
launched Kid’s Corner of the PSC website. Included in this effort have been research, graphic
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