Subject:
Title
Public Hearing for Renewal of Franchise Agreement/Ordinance with Washington Gas
Body
EXPLANATION AND SUMMARY: Washington Gas previously obtained a franchise to install and provide a natural gas distribution system in the Town of Vienna. In 1984, Town Council adopted a franchise ordinance, which has since expired. Washington Gas wishes to renew the proposed franchise, and the Town Attorney has recommended that an updated franchise be adopted and has been working with staff and Washington Gas representatives to come to agreement on terms and conditions acceptable to all parties. The proposed updated franchise would be a 20-year franchise and includes an annual franchise payment to the Town.
Departmental Recommendation: Recommend approval.
Finance Recommendation: N/A
Purchasing Recommendation: N/A
Town Attorney Recommendation: The Town Manager, Director of Public Works, and Town Attorney have been engaged in discussions with Washington Gas since late last year, and the Town Attorney recommends conducting a public hearing on the proposed renewal of a Washington Gas franchise and, if acceptable to Town Council, further recommends that the Town advertise an intent to adopt the proposed renewal of Washington Gas’s franchise in accordance with the recommended draft franchise ordinance.
Town Manager's Recommendation: I recommend that Town Council conduct a public hearing and approve renewal of the franchise agreement and ordinance with Washington Gas as presented.
Cost and Financing: N/A
Account Number: N/A
Decision Needed by This date: N/A
PROPOSED/SUGGESTED MOTION
Recommended Action
"I move to close the Public Hearing”; and
“I further move to direct the Town Clerk to advertise a Notice of Intent to Adopt the proposed Washington Gas franchise renewal at the April 23, 2018 Town Council meeting."
Or
Other action deemed necessary by Council.