Councilman: No rush on choosing gas company

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

McCOOK, Neb. -- The City of McCook's representative on the ACE board of directors is encouraging residents to review all options before choosing a natural gas supplier during the 2017 selection period.

"You may be receiving offers to sign up now with a particular supplier. By the end of December, you should receive information from all of the suppliers of natural gas in Nebraska. At that time you could compare the price proposals from all and select which supplier offers you the best price for your needs. If you have questions you may call me at 340-5746," said City Councilman Gene Weedin in a press release earlier this week.

Weedin is the city's representative on the ACE board. ACE, the Public Alliance for Community Energy, is one of several natural gas suppliers which compete annually for business during the Nebraska Choice Gas program selection period.

The 2017 selection period will be the 20th anniversary of the program and is scheduled from April 13 through April 27, 2017.

According to Weedin's release, ACE is a community-owned, not-for-profit natural gas supplier owned by 72 Nebraska communities and one public power district. It supplies natural gas to more than 22,000 customers.

Created in 1998, the mission of ACE is summarized in three publicly stated goals; Lower rates for all consumers through competition; Advocacy for the consumers by keeping abreast of issues that impact their gas bill; Providing a direct benefit to communities through the revenue return program.

The City of McCook was a charter member of ACE and has received more than $87,000 through its revenue return program.

"The City of McCook has used this money for playground equipment, restoration of the band shell in Norris Park, and help to build the skate park in Kelley Park," according to Weedin's release.

Revenue received by the City of McCook from the ACE natural gas selection program spiked to more than $10,000 this year, prompting city leaders to express their gratitude and encourage more residents to participate. City Council was presented a check for $10,879 in March and received just shy of $8,000 the year prior.

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