Letter to the Editor: "A few reasons I am supporting Decorah Power"

(The following Letter to the Editor has been submitted by Luther College student Alex Secora):

"Voting 'Yes' on May 1st for Decorah Power makes sense, because it continues the conversation on whether or not to establish a municipally-owned utility, which is in the best interest of Decorah. With the yes vote, we will be able to see accurate financial data and numbers from Alliant, which they have refused to present thus far. I also trust the popularly elected City Council to make the decision that is in Decorah's best interest. Here are a few reasons why I am supporting Decorah Power:

1.  It's affordable: Decorah Power would be a not-for-profit utility, whereas Alliant Energy is a for-profit investor owned company. Being owned by the city removes the profit incentive, which would save Decorah consumers about $5 million per year, lowering costs for everyone. The Iowa Utilities Board is also a consumer watchdog, so it would not approve our application if it was not in the best interest of the community.

2.  The city would earn more 'tax' money from the city owned utility than it does from Alliant Energy. The city-owned utility would of course not pay 'taxes', per say, because it is owned by the city. But it would make payments in lieu of taxes, to the tune of about $650,000 per year, which is four times more than Alliant pays in property taxes. This infusion of money into the city budget would allow the city to invest in infrastructure, parks, and other vital city programs. It also keeps more money in the local community.

3.  It would allow Decorah to invest in more renewable energy sources. Alliant has squashed attempts by people and organizations in Decorah to start renewable energy projects, but a city-owned utility could embrace such projects, and provide cleaner energy to Decorah's citizens.

I hope you join me in voting 'Yes' for Decorah Power on May 1st."