Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett has resigned from his position as the commission’s chairman to focus on receiving treatment for his alcoholism. This decision comes after accusations were made that he had inappropriately touched someone in public during a business trip.
He has not only resigned from his position as chairman, but he has also delegated his responsibilities of representing Oklahoma on the board that manages the Southwest Power Pool, the power grid that Oklahoma is linked to.
On Wednesday, Hiett expressed that having more time would enable him to prioritize his recovery, spiritual healing, physical health, and family. He further added that he is dedicated to serving his constituents and fulfilling his duties with professionalism. As any investigation proceeds, he requests the public’s understanding and patience while he works extra hard to maintain the people’s trust in him.
Recently, it was revealed that Hiett has been battling alcoholism, a struggle that he has openly admitted to. The disclosure was made after a whistleblower report from the Kansas Corporation Commission surfaced, detailing an incident involving Hiett at a regulatory conference in Minnesota.
The report alleges that Hiett, while under the influence of alcohol, groped a man who has business dealings with utility regulators in various states, including Kansas and Oklahoma, during the event.
According to Hiett, he resorts to alcohol as a means of dealing with his problems and is willing to seek treatment. However, he cannot recall the particular incident related to the accusations against him.
Last week, Commissioner Bob Anthony urged Hiett to resign, stating that the incident had tarnished the image of the commission, particularly since the man who was allegedly groped is someone who conducts business with the OCC.
Last week, Anthony expressed his opinion on the agency’s impact, liability, and responsibility. He believes that the agency’s primary responsibility is to ensure the integrity and honesty of their process.
Following Anthony’s demand for his resignation, Oklahoma House Democrats have requested Governor Kevin Stitt to convene a special session to impeach Hiett.
Although Commissioner Kim David did not demand the resignation of Hiett, she emphasized the need for an impartial agency to investigate the incident before making any decisions regarding his future. During the latest meeting of the OCC on Wednesday, David commended Hiett and expressed her surprise at being entrusted with the role of chairman and the Southwest Power Pool seat. Nonetheless, she acknowledged the necessity of the appointments.
David expressed that he had not intended for the person to step down from the two positions. He had planned to wait and leave the decision up to them. David believed that stepping back and taking time to heal was necessary for the person to return and work for the people of Oklahoma with dignity. He acknowledged the person’s years of hard work and thanked them for it. David ultimately decided to accept the positions to relieve the pressure from the person and aid in their healing process.
Next week, a formal vote will take place regarding Anthony’s attempt to file a motion that would prevent the OCC from destroying any documents related to the incident.
In the coming days and weeks, additional details will emerge regarding the potential investigators who may lead the investigation.
It is uncertain whether Hiett plans to take a leave of absence from his commissioner responsibilities in order to undergo treatment, or if he will continue with his duties while managing a reduced workload.
