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Consider a resolution suspending for 45 days the effective date proposed by Atmos Energy-Mid-Texas Division (Atmos-MidTex) in its application filed on or about February 24, 2023 pursuant to section 104.301 of the Texas Utilities Code.
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On or about February 24, 2023, Atmos-MidTex filed for an increase in gas utility rates under the Gas Reliability Infrastructure Program (“GRIP”). Atmos-MidTex’s application, if approved by the Railroad Commission, will result in increases to the monthly customer charges as shown on the attached resolution. The proposal raises monthly customer base charges 14% for residential customers and 17% or more for commercial and industrial customers.
The City is a member of the coalition of cities known as Atmos Texas Municipalities (ATM). ATM is comprised of about 50 cities and has been represented by the law firm of Herrera Law & Associates, PLLC (through Mr. Alfred R. Herrera) to assist in reviewing applications to change rates submitted by Atmos Energy-MidTex.
The City’s ability to review and effectuate a change in Atmos Energy-MidTex’s requested increase, through partnership in the ATM coalition is limited. Nonetheless, to allow for a limited review of Atmos-MidTex’s GRIP application, it is recommended that the City suspend Atmos-MidTex’s proposed effective date of April 25, 2023 for forty-five days as allowed by state law, so that the City may evaluate whether data and calculations in Atmos-MidTex’s rate application are correctly done, and whether Atmos-MidTex’s application otherwise conforms to the requirements of the GRIP statute. Approval of this resolution will suspend the proposed effective date until June 9, 2023.
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