FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information contact:
Britni Wickens, Director of Communications and Board Administrator
253-857-1567
media@penlight.org
PenLight Board of Directors Remove Member Due to Confidentiality Violations
GIG HARBOR, WA [March 19, 2026] – Today, in a special Board of Directors meeting, the Peninsula Light Company (PenLight) Board of Directors (Board) voted to remove member, L. Paul Alvestad effective immediately. Following a deliberate and extensive investigative process, the Board was compelled to take action as a result of multiple violations of Board confidentiality requirements.
The Board based its unanimous decision on the results of an independent investigation conducted by Miller Nash, a law firm with no previous relationship to PenLight. Miller Nash’s investigation found that Mr. Alvestad improperly disclosed confidential information to the public on multiple occasions, in direct violation of long-established PenLight policy. It also found that he engaged in other conduct that created a hostile environment for PenLight staff and fellow Board members.
Separately, in May 2025, Mr. Alvestad sued PenLight CEO, Jafar Taghavi, demanding certain internal PenLight records. Even though PenLight provided Mr. Alvestad with all of the records that he demanded, he has still refused to dismiss his lawsuit. The lawsuit has driven up PenLight’s legal costs, made it difficult for Board members to communicate openly in meetings, and taken Board members’ time and attention that should be devoted to improving PenLight service. Yesterday, Mr. Alvestad filed a second lawsuit against PenLight, in an effort to prevent the Board from meeting to address the findings from the investigation report. For the reasons above, the Board believes its decision is in the best interest of PenLight and its members.
“This decision was not made lightly,” said Board President, Debra Ross. “The Board members recognize that Mr. Alvestad contributed in many important ways during his 26 years on the Board, and we appreciate his contributions and service. Unfortunately, Mr. Alvestad’s recent conduct does not reflect PenLight’s values. This action will not keep us from continuing our work in service to our 35,000 members.”
For more information about the PenLight Board of Directors, visit: www.penlight.org
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About PenLight
Founded in July 1925, PenLight is a member-owned electric cooperative serving more than 35,000 homes and businesses across 112 square miles, including Gig Harbor, the Key Peninsulas and Fox, Herron and Raft Islands. Membership is available to residents within its service territory. PenLight is a full-requirements utility of the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), delivering power via BPA and Tacoma transmission systems. In addition to electric service, PenLight provides water services to almost 4,000 members.