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Crockett joins alliance and hires special counsel to contest Encore distribution rate increase
Summary
Council approved a resolution to join the Alliance of Encore Cities and authorize special counsel (Herrera Law & Associates) to participate in Public Utilities Commission (PUC) proceedings over Encore's proposed distribution rate increase estimated at about $7 per month for customers.
The City of Crockett approved a resolution to join an Alliance of Encore Cities (AOC) and authorize special counsel to represent the city in upcoming Public Utilities Commission proceedings over Encore's proposed distribution rate increase.
City staff summarized a packet of materials sent by Encore, saying the company submitted a voluminous filing and that the Alliance coordinates city intervention before the PUC. Staff told council the average distribution increase would amount to roughly $7 more per month on customer bills. Under PUC procedures described by staff, Encore is required to cover the cost of legal representation for cities that participate in hearings tied to Encore's filing. The council approved hiring Herrera Law & Associates as special counsel, the firm the AOC has retained for PUC hearings.
Staff described the filing as extensive and said the special counsel will attend PUC hearings and seek to limit the proposed increase where possible. Council moved, seconded and approved the resolution; staff said the decision allows Crockett to enter the alliance and have representation at the PUC without the city bearing counsel cost under PUC rules.
Council directed staff to proceed with alliance membership and retain Herrera Law & Associates as the alliance's designated special counsel in the Encore proceedings. Staff said they would update council as the PUC process unfolds.
