Terry and Betty Crouson of Newcastle must have cheaper PG&E rates than I (“Vote yes on Proposition1 16,” Reader Input, March 15).

Proposition 16, the so-called Taxpayers Right to Vote Act, prevents the formation of local utility districts and prevents SMUD from expanding into other districts.

As of March 12, PG&E has given $15.5 million to the campaign for a “yes” vote on this measure, and is the only donor.

They expect to spend between $25 million and $35 million to get it passed. It’s cheaper for them, long-term, to spend that money than to wage an individual fight every time a local government tries to form a competitive utility district so they can provide consumers with lower cost electricity.

This is the worst kind of special interest ballot proposition, allowing one corporation to become a near-monopoly.

Check it out before you vote.

Chris Phipps, Auburn

Dog portrait impresses