Commission approves placing Citizens Gas franchise language on November ballot after public hearing

The Adrian City Commission opened a public hearing on a proposed franchise agreement with Citizens Gas and heard from company representatives before voting to place ballot language before Adrian voters.

Molly Lumper Coy, introduced as a regional manager for DTE Energy representing Citizens Gas, said Citizens Gas has served Adrian for decades, highlighted local employee participation in civic organizations, and said the company plans roughly $1,000,000 in local investment this year and about $4,000,000 over the next five years to maintain and improve infrastructure. Joseph Lucci (identified as county manager for Citizens Gas) emphasized local staffing and customer service and described the company’s inspection and leak-detection practices.

During commission discussion staff clarified two points for the public: placing language on the ballot is distinct from granting a franchise; and the Michigan Constitution requires a 60% affirmative vote of city voters to approve the franchise. Commissioners discussed the nonexclusive nature of a franchise (staff noted it does not inherently bar other providers but that multiple utility networks would be difficult to operate) and historical vote percentages for earlier franchise measures were referenced and disputed in remarks.

Commissioner Roberts moved to adopt Resolution R25-050 to approve ballot language for the Citizens Gas franchise; the motion was seconded and carried on roll call with all present voting 'yes.'