EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 The Texas Railroad Commission has approved a reduced natural gas rate increase for Texas Gas Service customers in El Paso on Thursday.<\/p>\n
According to the City of El Paso, the originally proposed 27% increase was lowered following negotiation efforts. <\/p>\n
Small residential customers may see their bills rise by about 10%, translating to an additional $3 to $4 per month. Larger residential customers could experience increases closer to 19%, or about $11 more per month, depending on usage.<\/p>\n
The company says the increase is needed to cover service costs and maintain reliable service.<\/p>\n
The El Paso City Council previously rejected the Texas Gas price hike proposal back in November of last year.<\/p>\n
City officials have also expressed opposition to the increase and are currently reviewing the decision and considering next steps.<\/p>\n
RELATED: El Paso City Council unanimously rejects Texas Gas price hike proposal<\/a><\/p>\n Residents expressed concerns about the financial burden the hike would impose, with Mary Woodruff-Herman highlighting potential hardships such as cutting back on medications and travel. <\/p>\n Angel Ulloa criticized the utility’s justification, saying, “Their explanation felt extremely incomplete.”<\/p>\n El Paso Water also increased its rate last month.<\/p>\n