Last year, about this time, Ottawans saw a 9% increase in electric rates. It was the first increase in rates in nearly 15 years. The Ottawa City Commission is considering a proposal from the Utilities Department for another increase. Utilities Director, Dennis Tharp, says the increase last year and, the Department holding the line on spending, has led to a slight increase in needed cash reserves :
Tharp pointed out that Ottawa rates for a long time, have been up to 25% cheaper than neighboring cities. The electric rate increase will continue to be discussed at future meetings.
