title
Appendix A - Schedule of Fees, Rates and Charges for Utilities Relating to Rental Fees for Public Streetlight Fixtures, Outdoor Light Fixtures, Public Streetlight Poles, and Poles Supporting Rental Light Fixtures (B)
Ordinance No. 190514
An ordinance of the City of Gainesville, Florida, amending the Code of Ordinances relating to Appendix A, Schedule of Fees, Rates and Charges for Utilities; by amending the fees for rental of: public streetlight fixtures, outdoor light fixtures, public streetlight poles, and poles supporting rental light fixtures; providing directions to the codifier; providing a severability clause; providing a repealing clause; and providing an effective date.
recommendation
The City Commission adopt the proposed ordinance.
explanation
STAFF REPORT
On October 1st, 2019 the new FY20 rates for Rental and Public Lighting and Poles became effective as adopted in Ordinance No. 190210. Adjustments to existing light and pole types were increased due to increases in material costs. In addition to increasing rates for existing light and pole types, rates for new LED (Light Emitting Diode) fixtures were included. Although the rates are appropriate and necessary for customers signing new rental and public lighting/pole contracts, there were unintended consequences for the existing rental and public lighting/pole customers that must be evaluated further.
For that reason, we recommend that the City Commission roll back the rental and public lighting and pole rates to the FY19 levels, effective October 1, 2019, until we can develop a better transition strategy that will take into account the increased cost of replacement materials. The rates for new LED fixtures added by Ordinance No. 190210 are included in this ordinance. At a later date, GRU staff will bring forward a change to the rate structure that will better transition increased costs of replacement materials.
This ordinance requires two readings. The first reading is scheduled for November 7, 2019. The second reading is scheduled for November 21, 2019. The new and amended fees, rates, and charges shall be applied to all monthly bills which are for the first time rendered and postmarked after 12:01 AM, October 1, 2019.