Tacoma Power Superintendent Steve Klein announced his intention to leave Tacoma Power to become general manager of Snohomish County PUD. The appointment at the Everett, Washington, utility is expected to be effective April 10.

Klein, a Tacoma native and 28-year veteran of Tacoma Power, said the public utility district offers new challenges and opportunities.

“Steve Klein has made Tacoma Power a leader in the utility industry, both regionally and nationally,” said Mark Crisson, director of Tacoma Public Utilities. “We are sorry to see him leave, but are grateful for all he has accomplished during his career at Tacoma Power.”

Under Klein’s leadership, Tacoma Power completed federal re-licensing on its hydroelectric projects; began its telecommunications network and Click! Network; weathered the 2001 West Coast energy crisis; and maintained Tacoma Power rates among the lowest in the region.

“I am confident that the Tacoma Power team has the expertise and dedication to continue our traditions of high-quality, innovative, customer-focused service,” Klein said.

Crisson said he plans to confer with the Public Utility Board about a process for selecting a successor for the superintendent’s position.