Item 9 Passed 10-0
In plain language — from the agenda backup
This is the first reading of a 10-year franchise deal letting Texas Gas Service Company (a division of ONE Gas) keep its natural gas lines running through Austin's public rights-of-way and easements, replacing a franchise ordinance on the books since 2006. The agreement matters because it sets the terms for how the city's gas distribution operates and what the city gets paid for the use of public land. The city anticipates about $10,832,000 in franchise revenue each year under the deal.
The official agenda language
Approve first reading of an ordinance granting a non-exclusive franchise and right to enter public rights-of way and public easements for a period of ten years to Texas Gas Service Company, a division of ONE Gas, Inc., to provide natural gas distribution services, and repealing Ordinance No. 20061005-023 Funding: Estimated annual franchise revenue in the amount of $10,832,000 is anticipated under this franchise agreement.
What got said
- Paul Robbins and resource management commission members urged full capital recovery fees and conservation programs
- Approved on first reading with direction to continue negotiations on low-income assistance and emissions reduction
The roll call
Approved on first reading only 10-0
- Kirk Watson Mayor Yes
- Natasha Harper-Madison D1 Yes
- Vanessa Fuentes D2 Absent
- José Velásquez D3 Yes
- José "Chito" Vela D4 Yes
- Ryan Alter D5 Yes
- Krista Laine D6 Yes
- Mike Siegel D7 Yes
- Paige Ellis D8 Yes
- Zohaib "Zo" Qadri D9 Yes
- Marc Duchen D10 Yes