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Richland City Council Considers Electric Rate Increase by Staff KNDO, January 4, 2012

Richland, Wash. - People living in Richland could see higher electric bills this spring.

The City Council is considering a 5.1 percent increase for residential electric rates, and a 10 percent increase for non-residential customers. Higher costs from the Bonneville Power Administration have depleted the utility's cash reserves, and they're trying to eliminate a $5 million deficit.

"I think it's a reality of life that energy costs are going up. I think what we'll have is one time in front of us now, and then I think before the year is out, we'll get more experience and have a better understanding, and we'll have to revisit it again," said City Council member Terry Christensen.

A public hearing on the rate increase is scheduled for later this month.

In other City Council news, Christensen and new council member Brad Anderson were sworn in Tuesday night, along with Sandra Kent and Philip Lemley, who were re-elected in November.

The City Council also voted to have Mayor John Fox serve another two year term as mayor. Dave Rose was elected to serve a two-year term as Mayor Pro Tem.