Dawson Public Power District, Courtesy
LEXINGTON — At their December meeting, Dawson Public Power District’s board reviewed and approved an average 5.5% increase to all rates, to take effect in March 2026.
It is projected to generate approximately $3 million in revenue. In addition, the district will use $2 million of rate stabilization funds plus bond proceeds to balance the 2026 budget and continue infrastructure improvements for reliability.
With the new rate, residential customers will pay an average of $8 more per month. The current residential rate has been in effect since 2021.
“DPPD held rates steady for as long as possible before considering an increase,” said DPPD General Manager Alyssa Clemsen Roberts. “We strive to find a balance of electric grid reliability through system improvements, keeping rates low for our customers, and being financially stable.”
The board set a portion of margins aside in 2021 and 2022 to create a rate stabilization fund. Today, DPPD is using those funds to help minimize the effect on ratepayers.”
CFO Carmen Ackerman presented the District’s October financial data. Revenue and the cost of power were 96% of monthly budget and the year-to-date net margin is $944,000 under budget. Irrigation energy charges were collected in November, which will be reflected in financial reports presented in January.
A preliminary 2027 work plan was presented with grid improvements and updates projected to cost $5 million. The 2026 work plan is $4.3 million. The 2024 and 2025 work plans each topped $7 million. Projects in the plan ensure that DPPD can continue to serve current and future customer needs.
Board members were recognized for their service to the board. Bob Kennicutt of Eddyville has been a board member for 40 years. Dan Muhlbach of Kearney has served for 30 years. Page Peterson of Gothenburg and Craig Wietjes of Riverdale have served for 10 years.
Other topics included:
· The annual inventory was completed in October and approved by the board.
· Engineering Manager, Cole Brodine, summarized the irrigation season. There were only 23.5 hours of load control in the summer of 2025, over the course of six days. The five-year average is 78.3 hours per season over the course of 10 days.
· Employee leave policies were reviewed and updated.
· The next board meeting will be held Jan. 7, 2026.
