Item 5 Passed 9-0
In plain language — from the agenda backup
Council is taking the second-reading vote on a 10-year franchise that lets Texas Gas Service (a division of ONE Gas) keep its natural gas lines in Austin's public rights-of-way and easements, replacing a franchise ordinance dating back to 2006. The agreement matters because it governs how the gas utility uses city streets and land for distribution. The deal is expected to bring in about $10,832,000 a year in franchise revenue for the city.
The official agenda language
Approve second 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 Raphael Schwartz urged delaying the gas franchise second reading
- CM Duchen called it not a great deal but the best realistically achievable
- Negotiators secured a 10-year term and low-income assistance program
The roll call
Approved on Consent 9-0
- Kirk Watson Mayor Yes
- Natasha Harper-Madison D1 Absent
- 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