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Public utilities

Norwalk, Iowa Grants 25-Year Franchise to MidAmerican Energy Company

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The City of Norwalk, Iowa, has granted MidAmerican Energy Company a 25-year franchise to acquire, construct, erect, maintain, and operate an electric system within the city. This franchise allows the Company to furnish and sell electric energy to the city and its inhabitants, subject to certain restrictions and limitations. The franchise includes provisions for the exercise of powers of eminent domain, subject to City Council approval.

Key Takeaways:

  • The franchise will be effective for a 25-year period from the effective date of the ordinance, with options for amendment or termination at the fifth, tenth, fifteenth, and twentieth anniversaries.
  • Either the City or the Company may provide written notice to the other party to initiate negotiations for amendments to the franchise.
  • Failure to amend the franchise at the first, second, or third date option does not render invalid the City's second option, third option, or fourth option to amend or terminate.
  • The Company has the right to erect necessary poles, place wires and fixtures, excavate and bury conduits or conductors, and maintain facilities, fixtures, and equipment within the City.
  • The Company must comply with City Code regulations regarding the placement of structures and facilities within the right of way.
  • The facilities, fixtures, and equipment must not unnecessarily or unreasonably interfere with travel, drainage, or the proper use of public places and sewer or water systems.
  • The franchise is subject to the restrictions and limitations of Chapter 364 of the Code of Iowa 2023 or as subsequently amended or changed.
  • The rights and privileges granted are non-exclusive and may be amended or terminated as per the terms of the franchise.

Statistics:

  • 25 years: The duration of the franchise granted to MidAmerican Energy Company.
  • 5, 10, 15, and 20 years: The anniversaries at which the franchise may be amended or terminated.
  • 90 days: The period for negotiation following receipt of notice to amend or terminate the franchise.
  • Chapter 364: The Code of Iowa section regulating the franchise and its restrictions.
  • May 14, 2025: The date on which the franchise application was filed with the Iowa Utilities Commission.

Sources:

  • ORDINANCE NO. 25-06, City of Norwalk, Iowa (no date).
  • Filed with the Iowa Utilities Commission on May 14, 2025, TF-2025-0027 (no date).

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