Wapello County Supervisors speak out against increase in electric rates

Leaders of a south-central Iowa county are speaking out against a utility’s plan to equalize electric rates statewide. The Wapello County Board of Supervisors has approved a resolution urging citizens to contact the Iowa Utilities Board and urge regulators to oppose any rapid, rate-equalization pricing scheme for Alliant Energy. Supervisor Steve Segal says if the utility board approves the rate increase, it would be an economic disaster for the Ottumwa area, as some rates could skyrocket as much as 60 percent. The resolution notes Wapello County isn’t opposed to a “reasonable and affordable” increase that ensures continued reliability of the electric power supply.