The Springfield Utility Board held its first public hearings on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, on proposed changes is rates for 2024 due to increased capital and operating costs. An overall 8 percent (8.0%) water rate increase was proposed with an effective date as of January 1, 2024, on all bills rendered on or after February 1, 2024; a 3.0 percent (3.0%) electric rate increase was also proposed with an effective date as of April 1, 2024, on all bills rendered on or after May 1, 2024, and a 6.0 percent (6.0%) dark fiber rate increase was proposed and to be effective on all fiber bills rendered on or after May 1, 2024. The Board also held its first public hearing on SUB’s proposed 2024 Utility Operating Budget.
The second public hearings will be held during the regular Board meeting on Wednesday, December 13, 2023. Following the second public hearings at the December meeting, the Board is expected to consider taking action on Resolutions to adopt the proposed changes to water, electric, and dark fiber rates for 2024; and a Resolution to adopt the proposed 2024 Utility Budget.
The December 13 regular Board meeting will be held in SUB’s Board Room located in the Annex Building at 223 A Street in Springfield, and is to commence at 6:00 p.m. The public hearings will be held under Business from the Board portion of the meeting.
Members of the public are invited to join the public hearings during the regular Board meeting and to share input with the Board in-person or remotely via phone or internet. Prior to the meeting, the agenda, with instructions to join remotely, will be available on the website under Board Meetings. The public may also submit public comment in advance to be entered into the record by Noon on December 13 by using the email link provided on the agenda.
Information on the proposed rate increases and budget will be available for public review prior to the meeting on SUB’s website. To receive copies of the proposed rate structure or proposed budget by mail, or to obtain answers to questions, please call Meredith Clark at 541-744-3794.