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Matt Gentry on Transparency, Utility Rates, and the Alabama Public Service Commission Race
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry, a candidate for the Alabama Public Service Commission, says transparency, rising utility costs, and regulatory accountability are central issues driving his campaign for statewide office.
Gentry, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran with more than 27 years in law enforcement, has served as Cullman County sheriff since 2014. He is now seeking a seat on the Alabama Public Service Commission, the three-member body responsible for regulating utilities including electricity, natural gas, trucking, railroads, and certain infrastructure projects.
What the Alabama Public Service Commission Actually Does
The Alabama Public Service Commission regulates utilities and infrastructure that directly impact everyday life. According to Gentry, the PSC oversees electricity providers, natural gas, trucking companies, railroads, broadband, and other infrastructure tied to growth and development.
These decisions can influence monthly power bills, natural gas costs, transportation and shipping costs, and more. Because many of these industries operate as regulated monopolies, PSC decisions can have a direct effect on household budgets.
Matt Gentry's Focus on Rising Utility Costs
During the interview, Gentry pointed to increasing electricity costs as one of the primary concerns he hears from voters. He said repeated rate increases have placed additional pressure on households already struggling with the rising cost of living.
Gentry argued that commissioners should more closely examine proposed increases and explore ways to reduce costs for ratepayers. He also suggested reviewing operational spending and identifying areas where savings could be passed on to consumers.
The conversation also highlighted how PSC decisions extend beyond electricity. Regulations affecting trucking and infrastructure can influence the cost of goods, meaning commission decisions may indirectly impact groceries and other everyday expenses.
Calls for Greater Transparency
Gentry said many Alabamians are currently unaware of when or how PSC meetings take place and proposed expanding public access.
He suggested rotating meetings across different regions of the state and live streaming proceedings to allow greater public participation. Gentry said improving communication between commissioners and constituents would help restore trust and accountability.
Debate Over PSC Structure
The interview also addressed legislation aimed at restructuring the Public Service Commission, including proposals to add appointed members.
Gentry expressed opposition to removing voters’ ability to elect commissioners, noting the PSC has been elected since 1915. He said decisions about the commission’s structure should remain in the hands of voters.
He also raised concerns about proposals that would allow appointed members to take office before elections are completed, saying such changes could shift control of the commission.
Campaign Independence
Gentry described his campaign as grassroots-driven, supported primarily by small businesses, individuals, and industry endorsements. He emphasized independence as a key factor in maintaining public trust and said commissioners should avoid situations that create the appearance of conflicts of interest.
The discussion included questions about political action committee donations and whether candidates should accept contributions connected to regulated utilities.
Priorities if Elected
If elected, Gentry said his first step would be meeting with PSC employees to better understand operations and identify areas for improvement. He compared this approach to early audits conducted after he became sheriff, which he said helped reduce unnecessary spending.
He said his priorities would include reviewing rate increases, improving transparency, and identifying ways to reduce costs for Alabama residents.
A Growing Statewide Issue
As electricity rates, infrastructure expansion, and PSC legislation continue to draw public attention, the race for the Alabama Public Service Commission is gaining increased scrutiny.
Gentry said the position plays a critical role in balancing economic growth with protecting consumers, adding that decisions made by the commission directly affect households across all 67 counties.
The PSC primary election is expected to draw continued interest as voters weigh candidates’ approaches to utility regulation, transparency, and long-term energy planning.
Listen to the Full Interview Now
Listen to the full interview on Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Links to listen on other platforms including Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and more can be found here.
Episode Resources
Candidate Information
Matt Gentry for Public Service Commission website: https://mattgentryforpsc.com/
Matt Gentry for Public Service Commission Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MattGentryForPSC/
Matt Gentry for Public Service Commission Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/gentryforpsc/
Alabama Public Service Commission
Alabama Public Service Commission website: https://psc.alabama.gov/
Legislation Discussed
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