Utility rate increases

Urged the city to reduce payments in lieu of taxes on utility bills to soften rate hikes, and to take a firm stance against Duke Energy's 'misinformation.'

Said rates are already hard to afford and asked the city to do whatever it can to keep utility rates from going up.

Backed reducing PILOT transfers so utility money stays in the utility, and said the city must address affordability concerns before pursuing a public takeover of Duke Energy's grid.

Asked council to consider creative alternatives before finalizing another across-the-board rate increase, including temporarily cutting PILOT transfers and ensuring the sewer capacity fee makes development pay its full cost.