Reading Municipal Light Department Welcomes Two New Commissioners

[Reading, MA - March 12, 2024] - The Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) announces the election of two members to its Board of Commissioners, effective immediately: Pam Daskalakis and Raymond Porter. Pam and Ray bring a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to community service, further enhancing RMLD's mission of providing reliable, low-cost, and increasingly non-carbon energy solutions to residents and businesses.

Pam Daskalakis assumes her position after serving in an interim capacity on the RMLD Board of Commissioners since July 2023, temporarily filling the seat of former commissioner John Stempeck. Pam currently holds the role of Chief Supply Chain Officer for NOBLE, where she oversees critical functions such as supplier development, category management, and procurement.

While serving her interim position on the Board, Pam played a pivotal role in enhancing RMLD's non-carbon energy certificate program. Following her request for a review, the Board and RMLD leadership identified cost-effective strategies to achieve RMLD's 50% non-carbon energy source goal six years ahead of schedule. With a background spanning Fortune 500 companies including Amazon, Keurig Dr Pepper, Avon Cosmetics, and Accenture, Pam's extensive experience and strategic vision will continue to greatly benefit RMLD and the communities it serves.

Raymond Porter brings over 40 years of experience as an environmental consultant, specializing in air quality permitting for municipal and industrial clients. Throughout his career, he has facilitated the permitting of power plants in compliance with the Clean Air Act and local environmental regulations. As the sole proprietor of Porter Odor Science, based in Reading, he serves as a knowledge leader in odor management services.

In addition to his consultancy work, Porter actively contributes to environmental sustainability efforts in Reading. He has been a member of the Reading Climate Advisory Committee (RCAC) since its inception in 2007 and currently serves as its chair. Through his leadership, he has guided the town in reducing energy costs, improving energy efficiency for residents, and collaborated with RMLD to provide renewable energy options and incentives.

"We are excited to welcome Pam Daskalakis and Raymond Porter to the RMLD Board of Commissioners," said RMLD General Manager Greg Phipps. "Their diverse backgrounds and commitment to our community underscore our board's well-rounded experience and will help support our mission of providing reliable, low-cost, and increasingly non-carbon energy solutions to our customers. We are confident that their leadership will drive RMLD forward as we continue to meet the evolving energy needs of the communities RMLD serves.”

In expressing its gratitude, RMLD acknowledges Marlena Bita for her dedicated service and invaluable contributions during her tenure on the board. Marlena played a vital role in shaping RMLD's strategies, providing insightful guidance and exemplary leadership that greatly contributed to RMLD's progress during its transition to decarbonization.

"Marlena's tireless commitment and strategic vision have been instrumental in propelling RMLD forward," said Phipps. "Her contributions have left a lasting impact on our organization, for which are very thankful. She will be missed and we wish her well in her future endeavors."

As RMLD enters this new chapter with fresh perspectives and renewed enthusiasm, the organization remains dedicated to delivering exceptional service and value to the communities of Lynnfield Center, North Reading, Reading, and Wilmington.

About Reading Municipal Light Department:

Established in 1894, Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) is a municipal electric utility serving over 70,000 residents in the towns of Lynnfield Center, North Reading, Reading, and Wilmington. RMLD has over 30,000 meter connections within its service territory.