East Point leaders urged to address impending utility rate changes and billing errors

Concerns over rising utility bills and the need for improved city leadership dominated the East Point City Council meeting on March 3, 2025. Residents voiced their frustrations about the potential impact of federal disruptions on local life, urging council members to prioritize the community's needs over political infighting.

One resident expressed deep disappointment in the council's focus, stating, "The pain and suffering that our residents might be facing is real," and called for a more professional approach to governance. The plea highlighted the urgency for the council to engage in meaningful discussions about the budget and financial planning to prepare for upcoming challenges.

The meeting also addressed issues surrounding the city's power billing system. A resident raised concerns about discrepancies in utility bills, noting that many residents received bills that were "at least twice their usual" due to errors in the billing process. The resident emphasized the need for better oversight and accountability within the city's utility departments.

In response to these concerns, City Manager Thomas Mangrum presented an amendment to the ordinance regarding solar energy rates, which would align East Point with other cities in Georgia. The proposed changes included increasing the charge for bidirectional meters from $2.50 to $4.50 and introducing standby capacity rates for various customer categories. This amendment aims to ensure the city remains compliant with regulations set by the Electric Cities of Georgia.

Council members debated the timing of the ordinance's approval, with some suggesting it be tabled for further review while others pushed for immediate action due to the public interest in the matter. The council ultimately decided to place the ordinance on the agenda for the March 17 meeting, allowing for additional discussion and community input.

As East Point navigates these pressing issues, the call for stronger leadership and effective communication remains a central theme, with residents eager for their voices to be heard in shaping the future of their community.