Newton residents will have the final say on proposed utility franchise fees after petitioners collected enough signatures to force a special election. The City Council had enough votes to implement the fees, but the petitions shifted the decision to voters.
Franchise Fee Details
The franchise fee would begin at 2% in 2027, increase to 4% in 2028, and reach 5% in 2029. The fee would apply to Alliant Energy and Black Hills Energy bills. Monthly electric bills would increase by an estimated $1.50 in 2027, $4.50 in 2028, and $6 in 2029. Monthly gas bills would rise by about 38 cents in 2027, $1.13 in 2028, and $1.50 in 2029.
Mayor Randy Ervin praised residents for participating in the democratic process. “I applaud their efforts,” Ervin said. “I mean, if you think about it, that’s why we live in America.” Ervin said the city would still need to make budget cuts even if voters approve the fees.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
