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Commission approves Duke Energy fast chargers at Largo Central Park; city to supply parking spaces, Duke to operate
Summary
Largo approved a site-host agreement with Duke Energy that lets the utility install, own and operate DC fast chargers at Largo Central Park. Duke will provide equipment, operation and below-market pricing; the city will provide two parking spaces. Commissioners asked about lease term, phone support and end-of-lease removal/purchase.
The Largo City Commission on July 15 approved a site-host agreement with Duke Energy to install DC fast chargers at Largo Central Park as part of Duke’s Park & Plug program.
Under the agreement Duke will own, install and operate the fast-charging equipment and provide ongoing maintenance, warranty and network operations. Duke representatives said the proposed chargers are intended for 24/7 public access and provide substantially faster charging (roughly 30–60 minutes per session) than the city’s existing Level 2 chargers.
City responsibilities and options If the commission authorizes the agreement, Largo would provide two parking spaces at a site to be selected in coordination with parks staff and Duke engineers. Duke would handle electrical consumption and billing to drivers; staff said Duke planned to offer below-market rates. At the end of the program the city could either purchase the chargers at book value, request removal, or allow Duke to continue management.
Commissioner questions Commissioners asked whether there would be non-app options for reporting problems (phone number), who pays for removal at lease end, lease term length, and whether the city would receive any rent or revenue for hosting the chargers. Staff said Duke provided multiple support channels and that the lease term discussed during the presentation was 10 years. The city will not receive rent or a host fee under the agreement; staff described the chargers as an amenity rather than a revenue source.
Vote and next steps The commission approved the site-host agreement by a 6-0 vote. If the agreement is executed staff will coordinate site selection with Recreation and Parks and Duke Energy engineers and return with implementation details as needed.
Quote "They've looked for locations with public access available 24/7, near amenities, safe locations, and near major corridors," said Shelby Beauchimen, a city staff presenter. "If this passes this evening, we will meet with Recreation, Parks and the Duke Energy engineers to select a viable location for two parking spots."
