San Bruno calls for PG&E, CPUC watchdog group

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- San Bruno's mayor is calling for the creation of a watchdog group to keep a close eye on PG&E and the California Public Utilities Commission.

Mayor Jim Ruane said he supports the $1.6 billion penalty proposed against PG&E for the deadly gas pipeline explosion in 2010. But he wants an independent monitor to ensure safety is the top concern at the utility.

"It would provide much needed assistance by working as a fact gatherer and fact checker to analyze and audit PG&E data, and to flag potential safety violations and concerns," said Ruane.

PG&E told ABC7 News that it does not see a need for an independent monitor, and it wants the penalty it will pay to go toward gas pipeline safety.