Harrison council approves opt-out natural gas aggregation with Energy Alliance

The Harrison City Council voted unanimously May 6 to approve a natural gas aggregation agreement between the city and Energy Alliance, Inc., a move Mayor Ryan Grubs said aims to leverage group purchasing to secure lower rates for residents.

Council members debated the mechanics of enrollment before the vote, with city officials emphasizing the program uses an automatic enrollment model with an opt-out provision "so you are not legally obligated to participate," as the mayor said. Staff clarified that residents already enrolled with third-party providers would not be automatically swept into the city program and that there is no penalty for leaving the aggregation provider once enrolled.

The resolution approving the agreement passed on a roll-call vote in which present councilmembers — Mr. Do, Mrs. Van Cleave, Mrs. Wilson, Mr. Nyer, Mr. Eggner and Mr. Wit — voted yes. One member, Mr. Samuels, was excused. The council did not identify a formal mover and seconder in the recorded discussion.

The mayor said letters would be mailed to households outlining the program and the opt-out process. Officials said the program is intended as an opportunity for bulk purchasing to produce savings but that participation remains a consumer choice.

Outcome and next steps: the agreement is approved and eligible households should expect notification by mail with opt-out instructions and contact information for Energy Alliance, Inc.