Atmos Rates Increase Sparks Concern Among Local Nonprofit in Bryan-College Station

BRYAN, Texas – Atmos Energy Rate Hike Expected To Impact Both Residential and Commercial Customers

The coming fall will bring not only a change of weather for the residents of Bryan-College Station, Texas but will also experience a hike in utility bills. Atmos Energy, a local energy company, announced rate increases starting from October 1, affecting both residential and commercial customers. The move has provoked concern among local nonprofits who fear the impact this could have on struggling families, particularly as the temperatures drop.

Details Surrounding The Rate Increase

A collaborative effort among a committee of 181 cities in Texas, which includes Bryan and College Station, alongside Atmos resulted in the adjustment of the energy rates. The company reasons that the upcharge is requisite for growth, embracing modern amenities, and making pipeline improvements. Although the agreed increase is below what was originally requested by Atmos, it will still result in a 6% increase in residential bills, averaging an additional $5 monthly. Commercial customers will also see their bills increase, with a 3.4% rate adjustment leading to an average rise of $13 each month.

Despite the unanimous approval of the increased rates from city councils of both Bryan and College Station, only the representatives of College Station challenged the automatic approval.

Ross Brady, the College Station city manager’s chief of staff clarified: “Atmos is a private company. They are providing the service. They would be able to increase the fees whether we accept it or not.”

Concern From Local Nonprofit, The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army of Bryan-College Station, a nonprofit that assists those in need with their utility bills, has expressed concern over the impact of this increase on people’s ability to pay. Tanisha Pickney, a representative from the nonprofit, explained, “The bill increase was kind of shocking, because families are already struggling to make ends meet and having to decide, you know, whether to pay my utility bill or get food for my family.”

The transition from summer to winter already sees a rise in energy usage, leading families to face even higher bills than anticipated. Although the Salvation Army receives donations from Atmos for its utility assistance program, Pickney voiced a hope that the energy company would increase their contributions due to the impending need.

Revenue for Atmos

The new rates will generate an additional $164 million for Atmos, which is $30 million less than their original request. As families adjust their budget to bear the cost, the decision already creating ripples among the community, leaving many to brace for the impact as the weather changes.

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