In the heart of Milton City Hall, a pivotal discussion unfolded during the FY26 Budget Workshop, focusing on the future of the city's gas utility services. With a waiting list of 144 homes eager for gas service installation, city officials recognized a pressing opportunity to enhance customer service and revenue generation.

City representatives proposed the addition of a new gas service crew, consisting of three members, to address the backlog and meet the growing demand. This initiative, estimated to cost $170,000 annually, aims to expedite installations and improve overall service efficiency. The necessary equipment for this crew is already accounted for in the capital budget, signaling a proactive approach to infrastructure investment.

However, the meeting revealed deeper concerns regarding the current fee structure for new gas service connections. A case study presented by city staff highlighted the financial challenges faced by both the city and potential customers. For instance, a resident named Mr. Overby faced a staggering installation cost of $6,122.93 to connect his generator to the gas line, while the city only charged him $535. This disparity raised alarms about the sustainability of the current pricing model, which could take nearly 44 years for the city to recoup its costs from Mr. Overby alone.

City officials acknowledged that the existing fee schedule, which has not been updated to reflect the true costs of service installation, is no longer viable. They plan to introduce a new installation fee structure that will allow the city to recover costs more effectively while still considering discounts for seniors and military personnel. This shift aims to prioritize customers who will provide a greater return on investment for the utility.

Looking ahead, the city plans to conduct a comprehensive natural gas rate study in collaboration with the Florida Gas Utility. This study, recommended in a recent state audit, will evaluate both the rates and installation fees, ensuring that Milton's gas utility can operate sustainably while meeting the needs of its residents.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that Milton City is at a crossroads, balancing the need for growth and customer satisfaction with the financial realities of providing essential services. The decisions made in the coming months will shape the future of the city's gas utility and its ability to serve its community effectively.