(AUBURN) - The Auburn Common Council has taken the first step toward removing the city's electric utility from state regulatory oversight.
Council members approved the first reading of an ordinance that would withdraw Auburn Municipal Electric from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.
During discussion, questions were raised about what protections would remain for customers if the city opts out. Officials said residents would still be able to file complaints with the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, though concerns were noted about how that process would work outside IURC jurisdiction.
A second ordinance tied to the move would establish new electric rates and charges if the opt-out is finalized.
Proposed residential rates include an energy charge of $0.1040 per kilowatt hour with a $10 monthly customer charge. Additional rate structures were outlined for residential electric heat service, commercial users, and large power customers.
The rate ordinance is contingent on the city successfully withdrawing from IURC oversight.