Council Member Marc Duchen opposed most budget amendments and voted against the overall budget while proposing a rate increase for Austin Energy to generate $63 million. Austin Energy has not kept pace with inflation, leading to a projected $43 million shortfall in 2026. The utility proposed increasing the customer fee slightly from $15 to $16.20 per month. Mayor Kirk Watson supported Austin Energy's plan, which contrasts with proposed fee reductions, aiming to balance service costs with necessary revenue without shocking customers.
Austin Energy has worked diligently to avoid shocking ratepayers with higher bills, having approved a reduction in the average customer's monthly bill by $4.89.
Council Member Marc Duchen opposed or abstained on most amendments to next year's city budget, voting against the overall budget while proposing a $63 million revenue increase.
Mayor Kirk Watson expressed strong support for Austin Energy's plan, noting the tension between providing necessary services and asking citizens for more money.
The utility proposed a small increase to the monthly customer fee from $15 to $16.20 for the 2025-26 budget to address a projected $43 million shortfall.
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