The City Council in Walnut is set to meet this evening, beginning at 5 o’clock. On their agenda is continued discussion and possible action, with regard to a MidAmerican Energy Franchise Renewal. During their meeting on Oct. 3rd, the Council heard from MidAmerican’s Mark Reinders, who was asked also, about rumored, proposed rate increases, the last of which took place in 2013. Reinders said the energy company is not proposing a rate increase through 2029.

Mayor Gene Larsen asked Reinders if a franchise fee could be imposed at any time, during an Ordinance approving the Franchise Renewal. Reinders said MidAmerican tries not to do more than two cities per month, so as to not overwhelm their billing and I-T Departments. Other than that, a franchise fee can be put into place at any time. The process would take up to 90 days to get it up and running. Councilperson Linda Booth said that with the recent increase in the water bill, citizens she’s spoken with are opposed to a franchise fee. Mayor Larsen didn’t see any big issues with the budget and the Community Center.

Booth mentioned during last month’s meeting that she was still opposed to a 25-year franchise agreement, and hopes it will be reduced to 15, like the last agreement, and with no franchise fee. Mark Reinders told her the lowest MidAmerican will generally go, is 20-years. Afterward, the first reading of an Ordinance granting the energy company franchise rights for 20-years with zero franchise fees for an electric system, and communications facilities, was held. The motion failed, but was brought up again and approved, with the caveat that the second reading be held tonight, along with further discussion. Reinders then informed the Council that if they move forward with the franchise fees at a later date, the City would need to pass a Revenue Purpose Statement.