Why not spend the money on the Utility Division?
Mayor, bearing in mind that the council and yourself were well aware that the Utility Division needed an infusion of approximately $1 million to put it in good shape, thus negating the need for a large increase in rates for the people in Fresno, why didn't you and the council use approximately 10% of the $10 million windfall to make that infusion? The projects you spent on, while commendable, could certainly have been scaled back just a bit!!Leonard E. Goldberg
Leonard,
I am extremely sensitive to any utility rate increase. It's an increase we all have to bear. But our most vulnerable citizens, specifically seniors and the disabled are hit the hardest. That's why I appointed a commission to examine the need for increases. Having said that, I don't think it is sound economic policy nor in the best interest of the ratepayers to use one-time funding for an ongoing utility bill.
Mayor Autry
Comments
The windfall the Council spent recently was approx. $10 million. The 61.5% utility rate hike recommended by Sept. 1, 2010 will bring in $48 million a year in higher rates. It just shows the magnitude of the increase. That assumes 500,000 homes here and 4 persons to a home. 125,000 residential customers.
Posted by: Loran Harding | December 13, 2006 11:42 AM
I am still waiting for an explanation for the unauthorized sewer line relocation throughout town. The sewer division filed a R.O. order against me rather than help or offer any explanation for what went on. If residents knew the truth about what has been done to structures in-between sales over the past 40+/- yrs, mass hysteria would ensue.
Posted by: Marla | January 13, 2007 10:38 PM