Lima to vote on electric aggregation

LIMA — Across Ohio, cities and municipalities are utilizing ways to bring group utility rates to their area.

The City Council Utilities Committee met Monday evening to discuss electric aggregation locally. According to Trebel Energy, governmental aggregation is simply defined as an effective way for a large group of consumers to receive discounted pricing on their energy bills. Utility Council Chairman Todd Gordon weighed in on the meeting.

“In May, the residents will get to vote and should they pass it then the aggregation company will send everyone a letter,” said Gordon. “They will be placed in this program. It will be a large group that will be able to buy electricity and it will help save money.”

Gordon also said some council members were concerned about residents becoming ‘stuck’ in the program if they do not want it. Treble Energy Founder Scott Belcastro said community members will have the option to opt out of the program if it is passed by the residents.

Residents in Lima have the opportunity to decide if aggregation is right for them. On Jan. 23, Lima City Council placed the resolution to put electric aggregation on the ballot on a second reading. Council held a special meeting to officially approve the submission to the Board of Elections at the end of January.

The electric aggregation will be on the ballot for Lima in the primary election. If passed, consumers can further decide once the electric aggregation becomes available. Residents will also be notified by mail before the program is set to begin if passed.

The meeting was held in preparation for a public meeting Tuesday evening.

According to the City of Lima’s website, an informational meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday and at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 6, at 50 Town Square. Community members are welcome to attend with questions regarding the program before making a decision on election day.

For more information www.cityhall.lima.oh.us.

Reach Precious Grundy at 567-242-0351.