Council approves slight increase in electric rates
Hillsboro City Council approved an increase Tuesday of the city's electric rates, the first one in more than three years.
The monthly residential and commercial rate will go from $.0869 per KWH (kilowatt hour) to $.0915. The base charge of $5 per month remains the same.
Steve Garrett, city administrator, reported to the council that the rates remained level until last summer.
The city's rates are based on the amount of electricity used during the peak season, which is July.
"The public needs to be educated about using electricity during the peak usage time," said Matt Hiebert, council member.
Delores Dalke, mayor, said there was a time when letters were mailed to the city's electric customers to remind them of the peak times.
"The city's bill is $6,000 a month higher now than last year due to the usage in July," said Dalke.
Residential rates outside of the city limits also will be slightly increased from $.0965 per KWH for first 4,000 KWH used to $.0919. Over 4,000 KWH used will be charged $.0915.
Rates for temporary service and private property lights will remain the same. The increase will be reflected in the April 4 billing.
