South San Antonio News

The San Antonio City Council has approved a 4.25 percent CPS Energy rate increase, with D6 Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda voting in favor. In a statement, Councilwoman Havrda explained that her vote was based on the principles of reliability and affordability. She emphasized the importance of securing a strong foundation for growth and ensuring that the city's power grid remains reliable for future generations.

Councilwoman Havrda also highlighted her support for a proposed amendment that would have reduced the rate increase by half. This amendment aligned with her original proposal to prioritize revenue transfer. While acknowledging the potential impact on economically vulnerable rate payers, she urged the Council to explore ideas for strengthening CPS Energy's low-income support programs.

The decision to increase rates was made with the long-term security and future of the city in mind. A reliable power grid is essential for creating favorable conditions for economic development and growth. However, it is crucial to strike a balance between the benefits of a reliable energy supply and the potential burden on low-income households.

As the approved rate increase takes effect, the Council's decision will shape the city's energy landscape for generations to come. The focus on reliability and affordability reflects a commitment to ensuring that San Antonio's power infrastructure remains robust and accessible.

The City Council's decision has generated both support and concern among residents. While some view the rate increase as a necessary step to maintain a reliable energy supply, others worry about its impact on their household budgets. The Council will need to continue working on finding solutions that address the needs of all ratepayers, especially those who are economically vulnerable.

As San Antonio moves forward with the implementation of the CPS Energy rate increase, the Councilwoman's emphasis on reliability and affordability will serve as a guiding principle. It is essential to strike a balance between providing reliable energy services and ensuring that the rates remain affordable for all residents. The Council's ongoing efforts to strengthen low-income support programs will play a crucial role in mitigating the potential impact on vulnerable ratepayers.

In conclusion, the approval of the CPS Energy rate increase by the San Antonio City Council, with Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda's support, reflects a commitment to prioritizing reliability and affordability. While the decision will have implications for economically vulnerable ratepayers, the Council's focus on strengthening low-income support programs demonstrates a dedication to mitigating these effects. As the city continues to grow, ensuring a reliable local power grid will be vital for future generations to thrive.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.sa.gov/Directory/News/News-Releases/D6-Councilwoman-Votes-in-Favor-of-CPS-Energy-Rate-Increase-Citing-Reliability-and-Affordability