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Needles City hires rate-study consultant, forms ad hoc committee to weigh solar options
Summary
The council authorized a comprehensive water/electric/wastewater rate study (Bradfellas Financial Consultants, not to exceed $98,774) and appointed an ad hoc committee (Chairman Campbell, Brown and Mike Schneider) to work on solar-project input and funding scenarios.
The Needles City Council voted to accept a single qualifying bid from Bradfellas Financial Consultants to conduct a comprehensive electric, water and wastewater rate study at a cost not to exceed $98,774.
Staff said the firm is experienced in municipal rate analyses and that the study is routine work performed every five years to verify revenue requirements, assess service charges and evaluate capital projects. Council members asked that the analysis explicitly include scenarios for a proposed municipal solar project and factor in capital-improvement funding and potential grants.
During the meeting a board member outlined how the study should include the solar project in the electric-utility revenue requirements so the city can decide whether to build, lease or purchase renewable capacity. Staff confirmed the study team will examine expenditures, revenues, demand-meter options and how capital projects will be covered.
The council moved and seconded approval of the contract; the motion passed on a roll-call vote. The council then appointed an ad hoc committee to engage throughout the study and to help evaluate funding options and project siting. The committee members named in the motion were Chairman Campbell, Brown and Mike Schneider.
Next steps: staff will work with Bradfellas and the ad hoc committee as the firm develops its five-year revenue forecasts and a recommendation on rate adjustments and project inclusion.
