Chattanooga Housing Authority officials said effective Sept. 1, it will adjust the maximum allowances for utilities and the rates that will be charged residents for usage overages at all properties owned by CHA.
Authority officials said as a part of its funding agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, residents are allowed a maximum utility usage based on a determination of what the normal consumption should be for comparable sized units similarly equipped.
“Because CHA receives funding from HUD to pay for normal energy consumption by it residents, we are required by federal regulation to periodically review and update the schedules that set out the maximum allowances and rates to charge for over use,” said Betsy McCright CHA’s executive director.
In 2005, CHA entered into an energy performance contract with Honeywell Corporation that resulted in energy-saving retrofits to all of its units and properties. As a result of these efficiencies, the average calculated energy usage for all units will be decreased with this adjustment to the utility schedules.
There will also be an increase to the surcharges CHA residents will pay for overages in usage. The new rates were based on updated utility rate schedules from the Electric Power Board and Chattanooga Gas Company.
In addition, all properties with air conditioning will be assessed a reasonable surcharge of $20 per unit during the months of May – September.
“In today’s world of rising energy costs, all residents are encouraged to do their utmost to conserve energy, and to avoid having to pay excess utility charges,” said Mrs. McCright. CHA staff will continue to provide as much information as possible to residents in order to help them conserve energy and keep costs at a minimum.
CHA will accept comments on its proposed utility allowance schedule changes from residents through July 31, 2009. Any resident wishing to comment should address their comments in writing to:
Chattanooga Housing Authority
Attn: Utility Allowance Comments
P.O. Box 1486
Chattanooga, Tn. 37404