Henderson City Commission Tables Contentious HMP Electricity Rate Increase Proposal
The Henderson City Commission has decided to table a proposed 21% electricity rate increase over two years by Henderson Municipal Power & Light (HMP&L). The proposal, which included four incremental increases starting January 1, 2027, was met with significant public opposition from residents concerned about affordability, particularly those on fixed incomes. HMP&L General Manager Brad Bickett advocated for the increase, citing a 15% rise in energy contract costs HMP&L is entering into in mid-2027 as part of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO). Bickett warned that without the rate hike, HMP&L risks losing revenue, depleting its reserves, increasing debt, and potentially defaulting on power contracts. Commissioner Robert Pruitt opposed the increase, highlighting the disparity between the proposed 20% hike and typical 2-3% cost of living adjustments. Mayor Brad Staton acknowledged a previous request to delay the proposal until after the November election to allow for an objective discussion. T...
