By Bob Strohm
bstrohm@wbcowqel.com
It was announced at Crestline’s Village Council meeting that the electric rates in the village will be increasing by 15 percent.
Ohio Edison representative Dan Deville was on hand to explain the reason for the increase and to answer questions. Deville noted that the reason for the increase is due to the generation side.
“The Regional Transmission Operator or RTO explained that congestion is the cause on the increase in price,” Deville said.
Deville explained that auctions are held quarterly on the energy supply in order to soften prices.
“There are not usually large ups and downs. The RTO said that certain parts of Ohio have congestion due to the closure of coal fire power plants,” Deville said. “Aspects are being done to help recover the loss of the generation, but those take time.”
Deville noted that while he can’t help with selecting a supplier, or negotiate contracts with a supplier, he can help the village with coaching on questions to ask a supplier before the village makes a final decision.
Council member Allen Laferty asked Deville if the 15-percent increase would roll back down in the future, Deville responded by saying that through the transparent research from 2015 to 2016 he anticipates the prices to recede.
Council member Gene Toy asked if the council should seek other opinions on electric rates. Deville said that he encourages seeking other opinions.
In Crestline Fire Department Chief Mike Weisman’s report to council, Weisman announced that Captain Joe McElvain was going to be retiring after 25 years of service. Weisman also introduced the newest member of the Crestline Fire Department, Roger Chambers.
Council will next meet at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday to consider the appointment of a new council member.