CPS Energy, the public utility serving San Antonio, has appointed Frank Almaraz as its interim CEO following the retirement of Rudy Garza. The announcement was made during a board meeting on Thursday, where CPS Energy Board Chair Francine Romero expressed gratitude for Garza’s contributions and introduced Almaraz as the temporary leader.

Rudy Garza, who announced his retirement earlier this week, will be taking on a new role at the Lower Colorado River Authority in Austin. His leadership at CPS Energy was marked by strategic planning and stabilizing the utility after Winter Storm Uri, earning praise from San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones.

Frank Almaraz, who has been with CPS Energy in various capacities since 2011, returns to the utility after serving as CEO of Braya Renewable Fuels and interim CEO for Young Brothers, LLC. Almaraz emphasized continuity, stating that he plans to maintain the strategic direction set by the board.

The CPS Energy board has activated its CEO Search Committee, led by Francine Romero and board member Erika Gonzalez, to find a permanent successor. Romero assured a thorough selection process to ensure the right candidate is chosen to lead CPS Energy into the future.

As CPS Energy navigates this leadership transition, it also faces considerations regarding its budget and potential rate increases. Earlier this year, San Antonio City Council advised caution in decision-making regarding rate changes, as the city also contemplates adjustments in water rates and property taxes.

Original reporting: San Antonio Report — read the source article.