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Goodland adopts scaled low‑income utility rate tied to 2024 federal poverty guideline
Summary
The commission unanimously adopted ordinance 17-83 to revise the city’s low‑income utility program, tying eligibility to the 2024 federal poverty guideline (e.g., $20,440 for one person) and scaling discounts by household size; staff said only about 10–12 customers currently use the benefit.
The Goodland City Commission voted unanimously on Oct. 7 to adopt ordinance 17-83, which revises the city’s low‑income utility rate program to use the 2024 federal poverty guideline and to scale discounts by household size.
City staff explained the ordinance changes would shift eligibility from a static income number to the federal poverty guideline for the 48 contiguous states (adjusted by household size). Staff said the change increases the single‑person threshold to $20,440 from a previously cited $18,000 figure and that the per‑customer monthly discount currently amounts to roughly $24 ($21 meter charge plus a $3 average usage reduction) for existing participants.
Staff told the commission that only about 10–12 customers currently participate; commissioners asked for and discussed the possible revenue impact if enrollment increased to a larger share of qualifying households (staff estimated a local poverty rate near 13 percent and projected up to about 275 accounts could be eligible if take‑up matched the poverty estimate). The city manager and staff cautioned that larger enrollment would reduce utility transfers to the general fund and that future budget adjustments could be required.
Commissioner Redland moved and Commissioner Howard seconded adoption of ordinance 17-83; the measure passed by unanimous roll call.
Staff said they will monitor enrollment and return with budget recommendations if the program expands significantly.
