Title
Utility Tier for the Elderly in Gainesville RUC Referral Item #080520 (NB)
This was a referral to the Regional Utilities Committee.
Explanation
On October 16, 2008, the City Commission referred this item to the Regional Utilities Committee at the request of Commissioner Henry to determine if GRU could offer special utility rates to the elderly in Gainesville.
Staff has researched this topic with the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) and the City of Tallahassee. It was determined that the Florida PSC would not allow such a rate, as it would provide for interclass subsidies, which are not permitted. In speaking with staff at the City of Tallahassee, GRU staff found that such a rate is not offered by Tallahassee. Tallahassee does offer bill assistance to their low income and elderly customers but that occurs outside of the utility rate structure. This item was discussed at the January 14, 2009 Regional Utilities Committee meeting and it is being recommended that this item be removed from the referral list.
Recommendation
The City Commission remove the Regional Utilities item #080520 from the referral list.
Fiscal Note
None.
Drafter
Prepared by Bob Hunzinger, General Manager
Submitted by the Regional Utilities Committee