HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Report - February 20, 1991 (59)0I
CITY OF LODI
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COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
AGENDA TITLE: Utility Rate Schedules for Low -Income and Disabled Citizens
MEETING DATE: February 20, 1991
PREPARED BY: City Manager
RECOMMENDED ACTION: None required. Information only.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: With the implementation of the new electric utility rate
schedules, the City Council requested that a report be made
at a Council meeting informing citizens of special
consideration with regard to utility rates in certain
circumstances. This report is for information only and
requires no action.
Two years ago (February, 1989) the City Council took action to implement a utility
rate (water, sewer and refuse) discount of 10% for citizens who qualified for
Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is Federally funded, and/or State
Supplemental Payment (SSP) which is State funded. Eligibility for these benefits is
determined by Social Security after a careful and most thorough review of the
individual's true financial position. While Social Security estimates there are
approximately 5,000 persons living in the Lodi area who receive these benefits, to
date only 69 citizens have applied for and are receiving this 10% discount. In
addition, in a previous electric utility rate adjustment, the City Council approved
the implementation of a "lifeline" rate that benefits low electricity users. The
residential rate schedule contains a lower, first block energy rate to provide a
minimum level of low-cost energy to all residential customers. On the assumption
that low-income persons and seniors generally use fewer energy consumptive devices,
thi provides a built-in benefit. In addition, residential customers with
qualifying medical conditions are entitled to a much larger block of energy at the
lower first block rate. This rate is designed to provide additional lower cost
energy for electrically powered life-support devices, wheelchairs, and, under
certain conditions, air conditioning and heating. The customer's physician makes
the determination of need. Currently, there are approximately 75 people on this
schedule.
APPROVED: e
THOMAS A. PETERSON W
City Manager
CC -1
Utility Rate Schedules for Low -Income and Disabled Citizens
February 20, 1991
Page Two
The staff will be pleased to respond to City Council inquiries in regard to this
program.
FUNDING: None required
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas A. Peterson
City Manager
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