Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Utilities Rates topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Alice council adopts resolution to oppose Centerpoint Energy rate increase
Summary
The Alice City Council voted to adopt a resolution objecting to a Centerpoint Energy filing to pass infrastructure costs to customers under the GRIP portion of the statute and authorized continued participation in coalition representation and reimbursement of municipal rate-case expenses.
The Alice City Council on March 17 adopted a resolution to object to a rate increase notice filed by Centerpoint Energy that seeks to shift infrastructure costs to customers under the applicable statutory process. Council discussion framed the action as the routine municipal objection and authorization for the city to participate in coalition representation on the matter.
Council members and staff explained the procedural rationale for objecting under the so-called "GRIP" portion of the statute, saying the resolution preserves the city's right to review and contest claimed costs. "We're saying, 'Hey, look, Centerpoint, we're going to object to this,'" a speaker explained during the agenda item.
Mr. Garcia, who staff identified as present from Centerpoint, responded briefly during the discussion; the council then moved, seconded and adopted the resolution by voice vote.
Why it matters: objecting preserves municipal standing to challenge proposed utility pass-throughs that could raise customer bills if regulators allow the company to recover infrastructure expenses. The action does not itself set rates; it initiates or continues municipal review and participation in the regulatory process.
The resolution also authorizes the city to continue participation in a regional coalition of cities and to seek reimbursement of municipal rate-case expenses as allowed by law.
