Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Payson City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
3 issues in water utilities
Rising power bills and the EDAM market
Power bills jumped this summer due to the new regional EDAM market, a broken Nebo plant turbine, high heat driving up usage, and construction delays on the city's new power plant. Fixes are coming — the turbine returns around Christmas, a costly contract ends in April 2027, and the new plant should stabilize costs — but residents on fixed incomes are feeling it now, with the shutoff list at 67 customers.
Utility Billing Fairness Concern
Customers on budget-billing now need 12 months of on-time payments to join, and amounts recalculate once a year. The city will publicize the change so nobody gets accidentally kicked off.
Racetrack to Firehouse Transmission Line Easement / Eminent Domain
The city authorized using eminent domain, if needed, to grab the last easement for the transmission line serving southern Payson. Homeowner Jennifer Mann asked the council to wait for her independent appraisal, but the council moved forward while negotiations continue.