Governor Kay Ivey announced four appointments to the Public Service Commission (PSC) on Wednesday, filling the seats created when the Legislature expanded the commission from three members to seven during the last regular session.
Ivey appointed retired three-star General Ron Burgess, rural telecommunications executive Fred Johnson, Maynard Nexsen associate Demarcus Joiner, and Alabama State University President Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr. All four appointments take effect January 18, 2027.
“For Alabama to remain the best state in which to live, work and raise a family, we need good people serving in public office, including on our Public Service Commission,” Ivey said. “I am proud to tap these four experienced leaders to serve their fellow Alabamians in this capacity. I expect these individuals to serve with honesty and integrity.”
The expansion came through House Bill 475, which froze electric rates and broadened representation on the commission after Alabama’s utility costs drew statewide scrutiny during the 2026 legislative session. The law requires the governor to appoint two commissioners from majority party nominations and two from minority party nominations, submitted by legislative leadership from both chambers.
Burgess served as the 17th Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency during a 38-year Army career and most recently served as Executive Vice President at Auburn University. Johnson brings more than 40 years of experience in rural electric distribution, including 23 years as CEO of Farmers Telecommunications.
Joiner previously worked in public policy at the University of Alabama System and served as UA Student Government Association president. Ross has served as ASU’s president and previously represented his district in the Alabama State Senate.
The four join PSC President Cynthia Almond, whom Ivey also appointed. Two other seats on the PSC will be filled in the November general election.
Sawyer Knowles is a state and political reporter for Yellowhammer News. You may contact him at [email protected].
