Bevin appoints Florence businessman to state agency that regulates utilities

Gov. Matt Bevin appointed Florence businessman Robert J. Cicero to the state Public Service Commission Tuesday, filling one of two vacancies on the three-member panel.

Cicero replaces Roger Thomas of Smiths Grove, whose appointment was not confirmed by the state Senate in the recent legislative session.

Thomas was appointed to the commission last year by former Gov. Steve Beshear. His term was to expire July 1. Cicero will serve the remainder of Thomas’ term and be eligible for reappointment to a full four-year term.

Since 2011, Cicero has been co-owner of High Performance Coolers LLC, which sells high-end coolers for personal and commercial uses. He previously was owner of MCM Clinical Research LLC and chief financial officer and treasurer of Aristech Acrylics LLC.

The Public Service Commission regulates most utilities in the state.

This story was originally published April 26, 2016 at 5:40 PM with the headline "Bevin appoints Florence businessman to state agency that regulates utilities."