A public business plan is now available as part of the City of Red Deer’s Electric Utility Modernization Project, offering residents an in-depth look at a potential shift to a new governance model for the City’s electric utility.
The business plan outlines how Red Deer’s electric utility could transition to a municipally controlled corporation (MCC) — a model in which the utility remains publicly owned but operates with greater independence, agility and business flexibility.
“This is about modernizing how we operate our electric utility so we can better respond to industry changes, plan for future growth and continue delivering reliable, sustainable power to Red Deerians,” said Jim Jorgensen, utilities manager.
“The release of the business plan marks a critical milestone in this project, and we invite citizens to review the plan and supporting documents to better understand what an electric utility MCC could look like in Red Deer.”
Highlights of the business plan include:
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The benefits of moving to an MCC, including operational agility, improved access to capital and long-term sustainability.
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A financial and market impact analysis — including an estimated 2 per cent increase in the distribution portion of customer bills.
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Confirmation that the City would remain the sole shareholder, maintaining public ownership of the utility.
The business plan is available at the city website.
In addition to the business plan, citizens can learn more about the project through a series of public open houses being held throughout the community. These events offer residents the opportunity to ask questions, speak directly with the project team and learn how to provide feedback through the upcoming public hearing process.
Open House Dates and Locations
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May 29, 1–4 p.m.
Northside Community Centre
6391 76 St. -
June 3, 4–7 p.m.
Bower-Kin Community Hall
85 Boyce St. -
June 5, 3–6 p.m.
City Hall, Main Floor
4914 48 Ave. -
June 7, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Bower Place
4900 Molly Banister Dr. -
June 11, 2–4 p.m.
Golden Circle Senior Resource Centre
4620 47A Ave.
A public hearing will be held on June 23 at 5 p.m. in Council Chambers to provide an opportunity for council to hear feedback directly from the community before making a decision.
Citizens are invited to share their input in person at the hearing or submit written feedback by June 13. For details on how to participate, visit the city website.
With information from the City of Red Deer.
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