Avista Chairman and CEO Scott Morris earned $3 million in total compensation last year, the utility reported today. Avista’s annual proxy lists earnings for the company’s top five executives. The proxy was filed this morning with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Morris has held Avista’s top executive job since Jan. 1, 2008. His 2009 compensation package included a $630,000 salary; $1.1 million in stock awards; $582,026 in cash incentives; and $11,025 in other compensation, including company matches for 401(K) contributions. The increased value of Morris’ pension plan is also calculated as part of his total compensation. Last year, the value of his pension increased by $691,983/Becky Kramer, SR. More here.

Question: Is this reasonable compensation for the Avista CEO at a time when many customers are struggling to make their month utility payments? Where's Dan_at_Avista?