The NPJ has learned that a Notice of Rate increase has been delivered to many of the LEPA Electrical Customers, including the City of Natchitoches. The NPJ has confirmed with other LEPA cities that they have received an increase notice.
In a February, 2025, City of Natchitoches Council meeting, LEPA General Manager Bihm said “We are excited to have Natchitoches join the eleven other LEPA member towns and cities to receive reliable and stable electricity directly from the organization created for them and their citizens,” He continued, “This not only helps to strengthen the LEPA organization, but also lowers electrical costs for all of these cities in the process.”
ORIGINAL ARTICLE – BACKGROUND
City Council approves budget, may see energy savings as City moves from CLECO to LEPA
In a City of Natchitoches Council meeting in March of this year, the Council APPROVED a new agreement with LEPA and thereby moved the City from CLECO as the electrical power provider to LEPA. In Council chambers, the public was told to expect additional savings.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE – BACKGROUND
The lack of transparency of the City of Natchitoches Finances leaves nothing but questions.
Has the City of Natchitoches received a notice of increase letter and, if so, how long has the Mayor known?
Has the Mayor shared this news with the Residential Customers? Many of the residential customers live on fixed income. How much of an increase are residents facing?
Has the Mayor informed our major utility customers such as Northwestern State University, Natchitoches Regional Medical Center, and Alliance Compressor? Could these businesses be facing an additional $200,000.00 to $400,000.00 increase in their electric bills from the City of Natchitoches?
How much more will a local restaurant pay? Most all of these businesses have approved budgets and these budgets are in place for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.
There are a lot of questions. Voters, taxpayers, the current business community, and future businesses that may want to explore Natchitoches as their next location need answers!
Mayor, “What say you?”
