SAN DIEGO — The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is holding multiple public meetings to discuss the future of rates for SDG&E customers in November. There are two meetings that people can attend in person in Escondido on Monday, Nov 6, and two virtually on November 20.
Monday's in-person public hearings are scheduled for 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Escondido City Council Chambers, located at 201 North Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025.
The Nov 20 virtual meetings will be held at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. with links to join here.
These meetings are to allow SDG&E customers the opportunity to share input on SDG&E's budget proposal and what the future costs of their electric bills should be.
This has been one of the hot topics for SDG&E customers, especially since the company has had pushback on its previous rate hikes.
Here's what you can expect at Monday's in-person meetings. This is phase 2 of SDG&E's 2024-2027 budget proposal that will guide the decisions for the next four years. The public forums will begin with a brief overview of SDG&E's electric rate schedule and then will allow public comment.
More than a dozen people spoke out during public comment at the afternoon meeting, including County Supervisor Jim Desmond .
He has been vocal about his opposition to the new fixed-rate bill proposal.
"I think it's terrible, it's based on how much money you make," said Supervisor Desmond during an interview with CBS 8 Monday morning.
"Here in California and San Diego County we pay already so much more than anyone else does, and then to have the fixed rate fee based on your income tacked on to me is just salt in the wound."
Last year, lawmakers passed AB 205, which directed the California Public Utilities Commission to come up with an income-based plan.
It is meant to help stabilize rates and make billing more equitable.
Nothing has been decided on this proposal yet. The California Public Utilities Commission has until next summer to authorize a plan.
As for Monday's meetings, one will take place at the Escondido City Hall at 2 p.m.