Development News for Millcreek, Utah

Program Design Committee Advances Implementation and Addresses Key FAQs

The Program Design Committee reported on their ongoing work with Rocky Mountain Power (Pacific Corp) on implementation, including bi-weekly calls and specific calls with customer service and treasury departments. They supported community ordinance adoption processes by attending meetings. The committee collaborated with the communications committee to update FAQs, synthesizing questions received from community staff, elected officials, constituents, and businesses. The committee is addressing FAQs regarding the $4 program charge, project locations, construction timelines, and the role of local governments in the power sector. They are also working on the startup cost agreement, press release review process, clarification of the low-income surcharge, Schedule 100 tariff sheet, and noticing letters. Discussions are ongoing regarding rate collection, prep, planning, resource valuation methodology, and program accounting. A branding meeting is scheduled to discuss potentially consolidating the program and coalition names.

Low Income Plan Committee Focuses on Outreach and Data Analysis for Program Launch

The Low Income Plan Committee provided an update on its activities, including its work plan for low-income outreach and receiving updates from the program design committee regarding the opt-out process and notices. The committee has been receiving and analyzing monthly reports from Rocky Mountain Power containing aggregated data on customer participation, eligibility for bill credits, and payment status for low-income assistance. The committee is planning outreach to organizations serving low and fixed-income customers, including adding contacts to a listserv, sending updates, and hosting quarterly virtual meetings. Tasks for board members and staff include distributing posters and FAQs, and offering one-on-one meetings with organizations.

Communications Committee Addresses Community Concerns and Prepares for Program Launch

The Communications Committee provided an update on their activities, including social media engagement, website launch, and managing community feedback during the ordinance adoption phase. They discussed common concerns raised by communities, such as whether the program is 'greenwashing' and the program's opt-out nature. Media coverage, including a piece by NPR and an article in Politico, was also noted. The committee is working on updating FAQs and developing new communication assets, including a flyer and stickers, for the program launch. A discussion regarding rebranding the program or coalition is also planned.

Board Members Reflect on Ordinance Adoption, Highlight Collaboration and Future Opportunities

During the board member comments, discussion focused on the recent votes of Cottonwood Heights, Kearns, and Colville to not adopt the ordinance. Appreciation was expressed for their financial contributions and participation in the process. There is hope that the program's success over the next 1-3 years will lead to advocacy for reopening the program to additional communities. Midvale is anticipated to adopt the resolution, bringing participation to nearly 95%. The collaborative nature of the program development and the contributions of all participating communities, including those that opted out, were highlighted.