“The last proposed increase was outrageous, and opposition to it was successful,” said Mayor James Cahoon on July 1 as he spoke out against Dominion Energy North Carolina’s plan to raise electric rates across its service area.

The mayor was also successful. Alderman Hal Fleming introduced a resolution opposing the rate increase, and it passed the board of aldermen unanimously, and without discussion.

Text of the town’s resolution reads:

“Whereas, electrical service is a necessity of modern day life that is required by all residents and businesses, and is essential in building and sustaining a healthy, safe, productive and vibrant community; and

“WHEREAS, Dominion Nonh Carolina Power which serves the Town of Columbia and surrounding Tyrrell County area is seeking a 9.1% average residential rate increase; and

“Whereas, the proposed rate increase now before the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC Docket No. E-22 Sub 562, and Docket No. E-22.Sub 566) would result in an average monthly increase of $l0.33 ($123.96 per year) for Columbia residents using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month; and

“Whereas, the rate increase sought by Dominion North Carolina Power would have a dramatic and negative impact on residential and business customers, far exceeding the cost of living index; and

“Whereas, the proposed rate increase harms Columbia families, many of whom live below the poverty level or with minimal fixed retirement incomes, and causes economic hardship for the small business owners that are the backbone of the Columbia business community,

Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that the Town of Columbia Board of Aldermen strongly opposes the rate increase requested by Dominion North Carolina Power, and urges the North Carolma Utilities Commission to deny the request.