Memorandum

City of Lawrence

City Manager’s Office

 

TO:

Mayor and City Commission

CC:

Michael Eglinski, City Auditor

FROM:

City Manager David L. Corliss

DATE:

October 17, 2013

RE:

Acquisition/Operation of Street Lights

 

Staff is reviewing the City Auditor’s most recent report on street lights and believes that acquisition and operation of the street light system is becoming more financially favorable for the City.  Earlier analysis had indicated that acquisition would be more costly for the City than the status quo leasing arrangement. However, with increasing energy costs – and the possibility of future additional increases – seeking amendments to the energy tariff, acquisition protocols establishing a fair price, and a more favorable treatment of metering rules should be pursued as a higher priority.   Staff does believe that it will be important to safeguard Public Works department resources to ensure that the acquisition of the street light system does not threaten resources for street maintenance.