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First public meeting scheduled for Oct. 30
NEWPORT – Pend Oreille Public Utility District (PUD) is launching a series of public meetings to discuss its recently presented 2024 Revenue Requirement Forecast and outline the financial challenges facing the utility over the next decade, the PUD announced in a news release. The first public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 30, at Newport High School at 5:30 p.m.
The 2024 Revenue Requirement Forecast was initially presented during a PUD commissioners meeting Sept. 23. This financial tool provides a comprehensive view of the PUD’s anticipated operational costs, power supply needs, and critical infrastructure investments, which are expected to total over $113.9 million between 2024 and 2034. The forecast will guide discussions on whether the current revenue streams are sufficient to meet these expenses and whether rate adjustments may be necessary to maintain the PUD’s financial stability and ensure reliable service.
Key issues raised in the forecast include: Rising Costs and Infrastructure Needs: The PUD faces rising costs driven by inflation, supply chain disruptions, and new regulatory requirements.
These costs include critical infrastructure projects, wildfire mitigation efforts, and upgrades to the aging electric system, all of which are essential for maintaining reliable service.
Potential Rate Adjustments: Although no final decisions have been made, the forecast outlines one scenario that includes potential annual rate increases of 3% to 7% starting in 2025. These increases would help cover rising operational and regulatory compliance costs, in addition to significant capital expenditure.
Staffing and System Resiliency: Ensuring a stable and skilled workforce is critical for the PUD to maintain and upgrade its systems, especially as the utility faces retirements in the coming years. The forecast underscores the importance of attracting and retaining talent to meet future demands.
The public meeting on Oct. 30 will serve as an opportunity for customers to learn more about these challenges, ask questions and provide feedback. Additional presentations are being planned at various locations across the county, with details to be finalized and announced soon. The PUD will also present its financial forecast at several city and county meetings throughout November and December.
“We want our customers to be fully informed about the material factors driving PUD operations, finances and rates,” said John Janney, General Manager of Pend Oreille PUD. “This is a critical aspect of the ongoing dialogue about how we can ensure the longterm sustainability of the PUD while continuing to provide reliable, affordable services to our communities.”
Pend Oreille PUD encourages customers to participate in these discussions and provide their input on the utility’s future direction. For more information on the 2024 Revenue Requirement Forecast and upcoming public meetings, visit our website at popud. org or contact us at 509447-3137.
