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Cheektowaga board urges state oversight, opposes further NYSEG rate increases and rapid electrification mandates
Summary
The Cheektowaga Town Board on Aug. 26 passed a resolution urging state oversight of NYSEG rate increases and asking state officials and regulators for greater transparency and implementation of recommended fixes before approving more rate hikes.
The Town of Cheektowaga unanimously adopted a resolution opposing further electric rate increases proposed by New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG), a subsidiary of Avangrid, and called for fuller transparency and implementation of a set of recommended actions before additional approvals.
Resolution 2025‑595, sponsored by Council Members Pularski, Nowak, Filipsky, Bukowski and Thompson, voiced concern that rate increases are causing affordability problems and said the board supports renewable energy goals only if public safety, affordability and regional practicality are protected. The resolution directs copies be sent to Governor Kathy Hochul, the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC), NYSEG, Senator April Baskin, Assembly Member Patrick Chudlinski and the Erie County Legislature.
During debate, several members described recent electric bill increases affecting residents and voiced skepticism about implementing aggressive electrification mandates without stronger grid upgrades. Members argued the company’s corporate structure and investor returns should not be prioritized over reliable, affordable service for customers. Council members also discussed models such as public power utilities in other states as a long‑term solution to affordability concerns.
Council members said the board plans to produce a similar resolution addressing National Grid at a future meeting. The resolution passed by voice vote with no opposition.
