Hear ye, hear ye!

Vol. 5, No.7 15 August 2025

HELP THEM HELP

For more information and to register click here.

ONE MORE GRAB

Floorida Power and Light is applying for the right to raise its rates. "Florida Power & Light (FPL) is proposing a significant rate hike, potentially the largest in U.S. history, to increase electricity rates over the next four years, from 2026 to 2029. This proposed increase, amounting to nearly $10 billion, is intended to cover the costs of infrastructure upgrades, including solar generation and battery storage facilities. The proposal is currently under review by the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC), which must approve the rate increases before they can be implemented. 

• Key Details of the Proposed Rate Hike:

  • Magnitude:

  The initial request is for an $8.9 billion increase, but could exceed $10 billion if FPL is granted authority to pass on costs for new solar and battery projects. 

  • Duration:

  The rate increases would be phased in over four years, from 2026 to 2029. 

  • Impact on Customers:

  The proposal could add $100-$200 annually to the average customer's bill by 2029, according to The News-Press. 

  • Justification:

  FPL says the rate increases are needed to modernize the grid, improve reliability, and expand renewable energy production, according to The News-Press."

For more about this, click here.

TOO MANY COOKS?

Three consulting firms have been hired by the City to come up with proposals. Some of the goals of these proposals are over-lapping. As far as I know, none of the firms is consulting with the other firms so that their recommendations can be coordinated. And, as far as I know, some of the firms are re-doing studies that were done in the past. As far as I know, the past studies have not been shared with the consultants, and no one knows if these studies are outdated and need to be done again. All of the proposals will have something to do with "greening" the City - that is, planting trees.

One of the studies - Plusurbia's - is already suggesting eliminating a stand of mature palms in order to find space to plant immature trees. This plan does not even consider that a shaded walk way exixts, but that it is impossible for people in wheelchairs, using walkers, or pushing baby carriages to use. A ramp could be easily installed. To read the email I sent to the Commission and others, click here.

What is interesting to me is that I was appointed to the Green Task Force. So far, no one from any of these studies, or the Commission, or the City management has reached out to connect with the residents serving in this group. Some of the residents have more time on the Task Force than the current Mayor, Commissioners and City officials have in their positions.

Keep safe, stay healthy.