Print
In the latest development in the pursuit of a new electric and gas franchise for the city of San Diego, San Diego Gas & Electric might stop collecting more than $100 million in surcharges that go into city coffers if a new deal between the utility and the city is not reached before the existing pact expires on June 1.
SDG&E said it is just following state regulations and the move “does not change our commitment” to reach a deal with the city. But the City Attorney’s Office accused SDG&E of “trying to assert leverage in the negotiations” and said it would take the utility to court if the surcharges are eliminated.
Print
The San Diego City Council has called a special meeting for Wednesday to vote on granting an extension to the soon-to-expire SDG&E franchise agreement, which covers electric and gas services within the city limits.
However, Mayor Todd Gloria’s office would not disclose the length of the extension the mayor will put before the council. And by the close of business Monday, SDG&E officials declined comment to the Union-Tribune about any details or negotiations it has had with the city about a possible extension.
According to the San Diego City Attorney’s Office, any addition to the existing franchise agreement must be approved by both the city and SDG&E.