Issues and Policies
Local Control
AMPA supports local control over municipal utilities.
Because utilities are naturally monopolistic, proper regulation is necessary to ensure services are provided in a manner that is safe, reliable, affordable, responsible and fair. For municipal utilities, that regulation should be exercised by local officials who are particularly attuned to the specific needs of their community and morally obligated by election or appointment to serve the people. AMPA supports laws and policies that support local control.
Interlocal Assistance
AMPA supports collaboration and assistance among municipal utilities.
Municipal utilities often find mutual advantage in combining resources to achieve results that would be more difficult or impossible to achieve alone. Mutual assistance is particularly important during emergencies. AMPA supports laws and policies that provide greater opportunity for municipal utilities to collaborate and assist one another.
Safety
AMPA believes safety is the highest priority of electric utility service.
Without proper training, supervision and controls, electricity can be dangerous to both workers and consumers. AMPA supports laws and policies that prioritize safety over other utility concerns.
Reliability
AMPA believes reliable utility service is a necessity of modern life.
To have a reliable utility, leaders must plan, construct, maintain, and operate infrastructure that is strong and resilient. Utilities require access to low-cost capital to implement those plans at a cost that is affordable to customers. AMPA supports laws and policies that provide access to low-cost capital for municipal utilities.