Winnfield council adopts ordinance defining electric service standards

The Winnfield Mayor and City Council on Sept. 10 adopted Ordinance No. 10, establishing Section 19-9 of the city code to define standards of electric service and limit the city’s liability for interruptions and irregularities in supply. Councilperson Caldwell introduced the ordinance, and Councilperson Miller seconded the motion; the minutes record the ordinance as adopted.

The ordinance states the city will "strive to supply its customers with a steady and reliable supply of alternating current electricity at 60 Hertz" but does not guarantee uninterrupted service. It lists events that relieve the city from liability, including storms, lightning, flood, strike, riots, accidents, breakdowns, third-party failures, governmental action, acts of God, and automatic or manual load shedding declared by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO). The ordinance also advises customers to consider installing surge arresters or voltage stabilizers behind the meter and to consult a licensed electrician.

Council records show the ordinance was introduced by Councilperson Caldwell and passed with the members present recorded as voting in favor; the minutes list four yeas, zero nays and one absence. The ordinance text states it becomes effective upon publication as provided by law.

The ordinance clarifies the municipal utility’s approach to customer expectations and liability but does not create new customer-facing programs or funding. City Clerk Katina Smith attested to the ordinance and Mayor Gerald Hamms declared it passed.