New Illinois commerce commissioner appointed    

[DEC. 28, 2004]  CHICAGO -- On Monday Gov. Rod Blagojevich named Robert F. Lieberman as the fifth member of the Illinois Commerce Commission. Lieberman brings over 25 years of experience in economic and energy policy as well as extensive management expertise. Prior to his appointment, Lieberman served as chief executive officer of the Center for Neighborhood Technology, where he developed innovative ecological and economic strategies for urban regions throughout the United States. Lieberman, whose term will begin Feb. 1, will fill the vacancy left by Mary Frances Squires.

"It is a privilege to welcome someone with Bob's career and experience to the ICC," said Gov. Blagojevich. "His impressive knowledge of consumer and energy affairs will be valuable to the commission as it considers issues that directly impact the lives of people in Illinois."

Lieberman will join Commissioners Erin M. O'Connell-Diaz, Lula M. Ford, Kevin K. Wright, Edward C. Hurley and ICC Executive Director Scott Wiseman.

"I am honored to be offered the opportunity to serve in this significant time," Lieberman said. "As the evolution towards competitive markets continues, the commission needs to ensure not only that consumers continue to be protected, but that they also have the tools, skills and knowledge to benefit from the opportunities presented by these new emerging markets."

Lieberman's range of experience includes nearly 20 years with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, where he served as manager of the Division of Energy and Environment Assessment, director of the Office of Research and Planning, manager of the Energy Planning Section, and policy analyst for the Office of Coal Development.

During his tenure at the Center for Neighborhood Technology, he developed and implemented a series of creative strategies to expand public access to technology and increase neighborhood energy efficiency. These include the Energy-Smart Pricing Plan, which saves participants 15 percent to 20 percent off their electric bills by giving them access to market prices; the I-GO car sharing program, which saves participants $200 a month while reducing neighborhood congestion; and wireless community networks, which provide low-cost broadband access to low-income communities.

Lieberman received his B.A. from Oakland University and an M.P.P. in public policy studies from the University of Michigan.

The Illinois Commerce Commission oversees utility service and operation in Illinois, inspection of railroads and natural gas pipelines, the development of local 9-1-1 emergency telephone systems, and a number of other consumer protections. The commission has five members, one of whom is designated as chairman by the governor. Each commissioner is appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Illinois State Senate for a five-year term.

Lieberman, a Democrat, will earn $99,414 as an ICC commissioner. His term will expire in January 2010.

[News release from the governor's office]