EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 El Paso’s delegation to the Texas House of Representatives has urged the City of El Paso to reject Texas Gas Service’s proposal to increase rates for local customers. <\/p>\n
In a letter sent ahead of the city’s hearing on the matter, Speaker Pro Tempore Joe Moody and Representatives Dr. Mary E. Gonz\u00e1lez, Eddie Morales Jr., Claudia Ordaz, and Vincent M. Perez emphasized the financial strain such an increase would impose on residents. <\/p>\n
“We\u2019re writing to say very clearly that our people can\u2019t afford an increase,” they stated.<\/p>\n
Read the full letter below:<\/p>\n
El Paso residents could soon be paying more for utilities as several companies move forward with rate changes that combined, could add up to about $40 more a month \u2014 though the final amount will depend on pending decisions.<\/p>\n
According to Texas Gas Service, the utility is proposing a 27% rate increase for El Paso customers. A change that would raise the average residential bill by about $10 to $14 per month. The company says the increase is needed to cover service costs and maintain reliable service.<\/p>\n
Texas Gas Service is holding a series of community meetings through Thursday to hear from the public before the plan heads to the Railroad Commission of Texas for a final decision expected early next year.<\/p>\n