Public Power Week recognizes community-owned utilities, like the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), and all the benefits they bring to the communities that they serve. Some of these benefits include affordability, a commitment to clean energy, and accountability to the public.

The SFPUC delivers all the benefits of Public Power thanks to a dedicated and talented workforce. These SFPUC employees work tirelessly to construct, maintain, and repair infrastructure, ensuring that their customers receive high-quality utility services. 

One such employee is Terry Elisaia II, an electrical line worker for the Power Enterprise. After recently being promoted, Elisaia II now serves as the lead on the line crew. There has been an influx of new hires, and he has been instrumental in leading the growing team.

Community as a Driving Force
Born in San Mateo, Elisaia II is a proud Bay Area native. He aims to give back to his community every day, and one big way that he gives back to the Bay Area community is by keeping the lights on… literally. A large portion of his role focuses on San Francisco’s streetlights. On the job, Elisaia II spends much of his time troubleshooting: investigating the causes of power outages, locating damaged conduits, and finding solutions. Elisaia II explains the essential nature of his work and public power. “People aren’t always thinking about power, but people notice when the power isn’t working or when there aren’t streetlights walking down a dark street. Public power is public safety."

The best part of his job? The people. Many of his colleagues were also born and raised in the Bay Area – they share similar experiences, and a sense of community and camaraderie. They support each other onsite and offsite at weddings, birthday parties, and other big moments. 

Giving Back to Community
When asked about his life outside of work, Elisaia II immediately brought up his family. He’s proud to come from a big family and to have been married for 11 years with three kids.

Then he brought up coaching. For the past ten years, he has been coaching youth sports, namely basketball and football. He remarks that growing up, playing sports played a big role in his life and provided helpful structure. Accordingly, he sees coaching youth sports as another way to give back to his community.

The future of public power is bright with dedicated SFPUC employees, like Elisaia II, serving the San Francisco community daily. 
Learn more about the City’s efforts to expand public power in San Francisco here: www.publicpowersf.org.