The utility rate study committee, hereinafter referred to as the “committee,” shall be composed of five members appointed by the city council. Two of the members shall be councilmen of the city council.
(2001 Code, sec. 13.602)
The members of the committee and its chairman shall be appointed annually by the city council at the time of appointment of the other boards and authorities which it now appoints.
(2001 Code, sec. 13.603)
The purpose of the committee is to study and consider requests for utility rate increases of any and all descriptions in accordance with the Public Utility Regulatory Act, V.T.C.A., Utilities Code, chapter 11 et seq., from the various companies that provide the city with natural gas, synthetic natural gas, electric power, and telephone service.
(2001 Code, sec. 13.604)
The committee shall be empowered, in accordance with Utilities Code, chapter 11 et seq. to select and engage rate consultants, accountants, auditors, attorneys, engineers, or any other person of expertise in the utility being studied, or any combination thereof, to conduct investigations in behalf of the city.
(2001 Code, sec. 13.605)
The costs incurred by the committee shall be borne by the individual utility company seeking an increase in rates; otherwise the costs shall be assumed by the city.
(2001 Code, sec. 13.606)