KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Knoxville Utility Board (KUB) agreed Thursday not to increase any rates for customers the coming year, in light of the financial hardship being faced by many because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The KUB Board of Commissioners approved a slightly lower budget for fiscal year 2021 with no rate increases in any of its systems this year.
“Our original plan would have included rate increases in all four systems this year,” said Gabriel Bolas, KUB President and Chief Executive Officer.
A planned increase in water and wastewater systems was deferred to next year.
"We know what an impact utility bills have on customers’ monthly budgets, especially now when so many in our community have lost income," KUB Board Chair Kathy Hamilton said.
Also on Thursday, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) announced it will partner with local power companies by providing $2 million in matching funds to support local initiatives that address hardships created by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The COVID-19 Community Care Fund will help nonprofit organizations to support families and businesses affected by pandemic conditions.
Local power companies will have the opportunity to identify organizations for which they will seek matching funds for existing or new community initiatives. .
