Athens citizens might see a new ballot issue in May that would enable city officials to purchase natural gas from a cheaper and more environmentally friendly source than the current provider, Columbia Gas.
City Council members introduced the new ordinance at yesterday's meeting that, if approved within the next few weeks, would put the option to bid for different gas companies on the ballot.
In the end
we would be able to save money for the average citizen Mayor Paul Wiehl said.
A representative from the company Volunteer Gas told council members in December that under his contract the city could save $8,000 a year in city administration buildings alone, Wiehl said. Council members would consider many other gas providers if voters pass the issue in May.
Columbia Gas is also expected to get more expensive because the company is about to increase delivery charges, Wiehl added.
Choosing a different natural gas company could also reduce the city's carbon footprint as well, said Kent Butler, D-1st Ward. Some of the eligible gas companies can get natural gas from the methane produced by landfills, which reduces waste, he added.
If the issue passes, city officials would start browsing the market for alternatives to Columbia Gas, but wouldn't necessarily change contracts, Wiehl said.
Citizens would also have the opportunity to stick with Columbia Gas on an individual basis even if the issue passes, he added.
Elahu Gosney, D-at large, had introduced the ordinance to council members, but was not at the meeting because he attended the Presidential Inauguration.
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Caitlin McGlade
