Longview Approves Utility Rate Changes

LONGVIEW – Utility rates were one of the topics before the Longview city council Thursday. The Longview News Journal reports the council approved a rate decrease for AEP Southwestern Electric Power Co. For the typical customer, it amounts to about $3.66 a month. They also limited the proposed rate increase sought by Atmos Energy Corp. They had been asking for a rate hike of over 7%. At the advice of city attorneys, the council approved a 2% increase. If the company approves the lesser amount, the increase will take effect in a week. If they oppose it, they can appeal to the Texas Railroad Commission.