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Aztec adopts electric-rate ordinance, directs staff to calculate customer credits
Summary
The Aztec City Commission gave final approval to ordinance 2025-562 adjusting electric utility rates and directed staff to compute and return credits to customers for the period since July 1; commissioners asked staff to present clear options and timelines before the next billing cycle.
The Aztec City Commission on Sept. 23 adopted ordinance 2025-562, a final rate adjustment for the city electric utility, and directed staff to calculate any customer credits resulting from the change.
Commissioners pressed staff for specifics on how credits would be computed and when residents would see them. Staff explained that city meters are read about a month behind and that exports to a spreadsheet are required to compute per-customer amounts. Commissioners asked whether the city would apply a simple percentage credit (for example, 10% across three months), issue individualized refunds based on usage, or revert rates to the previous level effective July 1 and provide a one-time credit.
The commission did not adopt a specific credit method at the meeting. Instead, it required staff to return with detailed calculations and a recommended approach before the next billing run so commissioners can approve the method and timing. During discussion, staff said they could export readings and "figure each customer and get that amount and then we will bring it to the mayor and have it blessed," indicating a per-customer calculation is possible once the data are complete.
Commissioners also debated language in the ordinance directing a new cost-of-service study. Several commissioners said they preferred staff-run spreadsheet options and a capital-project review before hiring an outside consultant; one commissioner moved to remove the immediate directive to implement a new cost-of-service study and instead to consider options at a future workshop. The commission approved the ordinance as presented, with the expectation that staff would return with credit figures and proposed implementation steps.
The next procedural step is for staff to finish the billing exports and present a recommended credit method and timeline to the commission; commissioners said they want the recommendation sent to all members by email so they can answer constituent inquiries promptly.
