As a resident of the beautiful city of Waukee, I have always appreciated our community's commitment to quality of life. However, there is one aspect that has become increasingly challenging for many hardworking residents - the cost of natural gas. Our city owns and maintains its own natural gas infrastructure and unfortunately, this has resulted in exorbitant prices for us consumers.

According to data collected by local residents, from November 2022 to November 2023, we paid on average 450% more than Des Moines Residents serviced by MidAmerican Energy. In fact, our rates were a staggering 675% higher in November 2023 alone. To add insult to injury, while our natural gas prices have increased by 38% year-on-year during this period, MidAmerican rates have actually decreased by 51%.

This situation is untenable especially given the record inflation and low temperatures we've been experiencing this winter. Many among us are struggling to afford these inflated costs which are significantly higher than what our neighbors pay.

Our local government should be working towards making utilities as affordable as possible for all residents instead of allowing such disparities to persist. We call upon them now to take immediate action - review the current pricing structure and work towards lowering the cost of natural gas in Waukee.

Please sign this petition if you believe that everyone deserves access to affordable utilities regardless of where they live.