Title
Consider a resolution suspending for 45 days the effective date proposed by Atmos Energy Corporation - MidTex Division in its application filed for a rate increase.
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On or about June 13, 2019 Atmos Energy filed for an increase in gas utility rates under the Gas Reliability Infrastructure Program (“GRIP”). Atmos Energy’s application, if approved by the Commission, will result in an increase in the monthly customer charges of $2.84 per month for residential customers and $8.74 per month for commercial customers. This increase, if approved, will result in a systemwide increase in Atmos Energy’s revenue of about $67.1 million.
The City is a member of the coalition of cities known as the Atmos Texas Municipalities (ATM). ATM is comprised of about 50 cities and has been represented by the law firm of Herrera Law & Associates, PLLC to assist in reviewing applications to change rates submitted by Atmos Energy.
The City’s ability to review and effectuate a change in Atmos Energy’s requested increase, through partnership in the ATM, is limited. Nonetheless, to allow for a limited review of Atmos Energy’s GRIP application, it is recommended that the City suspend Atmos Energy’s proposed effective date of August 12, 2019 for forty-five days as allowed by state law, so that the City may evaluate whether data and calculations in Atmos Energy’s rate application are correctly done.