Our age, we're easily confused, so give us a minute here.
Alright, I'm gonna call a conference to order. This meeting includes Commissioner Hill's participation via electronic needs as permitted by law. The public has been provided with access to observe this meeting both electronically and in person consistent with our published notice and the meeting is being recorded in accordance with the requirements of the Tennessee Open Meetings Act. Before we do the road call, I would like to introduce you to commissioner Patzy hazel Wood down on.
Who has joined the commission. Patzy, we're glad to have you and welcome to the commission. Thank you.
Bye bye.
Madam Clerk, would you please call the roll?
Vice chairman Clay good. Commissioner Passy Hazelwood. Commissioner John high. Commissioner Kennethf Hill.
Dr. Hill, you own?
Commissioner Herbert Healert.
All right.
Yes, we have inducted 2500089 attorneys rich.
Hitchcock and Cecilia Garrett for the city of Chatternuga and docket 20 six-00043. We have the city of attorney for Jonesborough, Glenn Rosen off, and in docket 2644, we have Mayor Sloan Stewart for Lipsburgh Moore County.
Alright, the record will reflect that all commissioners are identified the name and hopefully when we get dr. Hill on and he's participating electronically. So when you're speaking, just a reminder, please turn your microphones on and off, you'll see a green light like this one when your microphone is on. We can only have four active microphones at once, so remember to kind of turn it on and off. And with that Madam Clerk, would you please go ahead and start calling the agenda? Yes sir.
Section five Commissioners Good Jones Hill Hillyard and high. Docket number 20 six-00017 Edgewater wastewater utilities LLC. Petition of Edge wastewater utility.
This LLC for certificate of convenience and necessity to include the Baker Farm subdivision in Murray County Tennessee here in consider petition.
All right, I'll call this hearing order. This matter was duely noticed for hearing on August the 7th 2026 and it's being conducted in accordance with the uniform Administrative Procedures Act. I see the parties have come forward so would you please introduce yourself for the record and remember to turn on your mic so we can hear you?
Good morning commissioners.
Good morning mr. Chairman. My name is.
We'll see.
With me today is Matt next.
Alright, with edge water, with edge wastewater like to make any opening remarks?
Alright, before we begin testimony with the company like to move all docket filings into the official record? Alright, without objection or so move. Would edge wastewater, please call its witness to be sworn in by the administrative judge assigned to this docket.
Click next as well.
I'll swear you from behind you? He's behind you, so we're swearing from the testimony. Yes sir, I did. All right. Council you may proceed.
Would would you please state your full?
Name and gives.
Business address? My name is Richard Matthew Nicks. Business address is 04:10 New Salem highway. Suite one oh seven Merfusville, Tennessee 37129.
Is your.
Position with the petitioner.
I am president of Edge waste Farter Utilities LLC. Did you.
To review the profile task.
It was submitted to the condition the commission.
Yes ma'am, I did.
Changes.
No ma'am.
That you provided previously in the.
Prefilled.
Yes ma'am, it is.
Heard a summary of that.
Information for the.
Yes ma'am, I have.
Would you please.
Share that summary with the.
Question? Yes, thank you. Commissioners, thank you for the opportunity to be here. The purpose of my testimony to support the petition filed by edge wasteward utilities for a new CCN to include the baker Farm's subdivision in Murray County Tennessee. Describe the proposed development and test to the financial managerial and technical capabilities.
Of edge, wastewater utilities to properly own, operate and maintain the wastewater treatment and collection system for baker farms.
Banker Farm subdivision is located in Murray County tennessee. The subdivision is proposed to have a hundred and 78 single family homes. The property is not currently served by any wastewater provider and neither Murray County nor or the Murray County or the public utilities will provide service.
The proposed system is designed for 53400 gallons per day of wasteware flow comprised of water type, a fluid pressure collection system utilizing step tanks, and a recirculating media filter treatment system. The treaty of the fluid will be land applied for disposal. The treatment system will not be built in phases.
Edges system, edge systems, operators and maintenance personnel will be responsible for ensuring the system is maintained and operated in compliance with TDAC regulations. There is a public need for service and edge wastewarder utilities has the requisite management experience, financial capability and technical expertise to provide service pursuant to the rules and regulations.
Of this commission. Thank you. Alright, do the commissioners or staff have any questions of the witness?
This is excuse. As this is a public hearing, is there anyone who would like to comment on this matter?
All right, let the record reflect that NO one is seeking recognition to comment. Based on the evidentiary record, I find that edge wastewater utilities LLC has the requisite managerial technical and financial capabilities to operate the wastewater system to serve baker farms, subdivision in Mary County Tennessee. There are however.
There are certain documents that are required to be filed with the commission which cannot be finalized or are otherwise not available until a certificate of public convenience and necessity is granted. Now therefore move that the petition be approved contingent upon the company filing the following documents in this docket. Number one, the deed and or easements wrong.
The land and the ownership rights to the wastewater system within 15 days of issuance and before the 1st customer is connected to the wastewater system as required under contracts submitted by the petitioner. Number two, a copy of the final state operating permit issued by the Tennessee Department of Environment and conservation within 15 days of issuance. Number three, a copy of the as built plans, including signs certification by the petitioner confirming that the entire wastewater system has been inspected and.
Is improved for operation. Number four, a copy of the signed plant. Once the development area is approved by the city and or county within 15 days of issuance and before the 1st customer is connected to the wastewater system. Number five, a copy of the fully executed performance bond from the developer or builder of the wastewater system made payable to the utility.
To ensure the construction of the wastewater system, the performance bond should be for an amount equal to or greater than the cost of the system as provided in contracts between the builder, developer, and or utility, and last number six, a listing of the final amount of contributed capital being transferred to the utility separated by asset classification.
The petitioner has requested authorizations using Escrow account in conjunction with its monthly customer billing as outlined in the proposed terriff submitted in this docket. The creation of an Escrow accounting collection of the requested escrow funds is here by authorize.
These escrow collections will be subject and administered in accordance with commission rule 1220-04-13-.18 pertaining to Escrow accounts. I further direct the petitioner to file a report in the stock at demonstrating its compliance with these requirements prior.
Providing wastewater service to baker farm subdivision. In the events that the compliance report is not filed, direct the petitioner to file within six months from the date the order is issued in this matter, and every six months thereafter until the installation is complete, a status report detailing progress towards providing wastewater service to baker farm subdivision and outlining its.
Compliance with each of these requirements. So move. Is there a second?
Go ahead.
Alright, is there any discussion on this motion?
Are we ready to vote? A roll call of the vote is required, will the docket clerk please take the vote?
Excuse me, vice chairman good.
All your vote.
Jones votes are.
Dr. Hilla I think you can hear us, but you're having, we can't hear you. You, are you unmuted or thought I heard him a while ago.
All right, we'll have to skip his vote for now.
Commissioner Hi?
Alright, the motion passes. Thank you.
Alright, you won't call the next doc at.
Docket number 20 six-00021 pmotton natural gas company, audit of Pmont natural gas companies weather normalization adjustment for the period October 12025 to 30 April 2026 consider staff audit.
Our report filed on July the 30th 2026. Audit staff stated it agreed with the company's calculations of the weather normalization adjustment in WA or WNA sorry for the period and that there were NO WNA related findings, audit staf.
Staff concluded the company is correctly implementing the mechanics of the WNA rider and that Pedmot natural gas company now known Aspired Tennessee appears to have correctly billed its customers during this review period. Based on the record, I move approval to the July 2026 staff order reporters filed, including the conclusions contained therein. So move and is there a second. Second, is there any discussion on the motion? Hearing none are we ready to vote? So let's take a roll call which is required and dr. Clerk will you please take the vote?
Vice chairman good?
Commissioner Hill.
Helier goes out.
Commissioner Jones.
Jones votes are.
Alright, the motion passes. Thank you.
Section six docket number I'm sorry, commissioner Goodt Jones Hillyard High and Morrison, docket number 05-00232 SX access line Communications corporation, application of excess line Communications Corporation for authority to provide resale telecommunications in Tennessee. Consider company requests to counsel certificate of convenience and necessity.
John, this is you.
Corporation has satisfied all requirements for relinquishing its designation of.
Accordingly I moved to cancel access line Communications authority communication services in Tennessee. Is there any discussion on the motion?
See nine. Are we ready to vote? The roll call vote on the motion is required, will Dockert take the vote?
Vice Chairman Good.
Good votes are.
Commissioner Hillyard?
Commissioner Jones.
Owns votes are.
Commissioner Morrison? Commissioner High.
Oh, good, sorry.
Section seven Commissioners Good Jones Hill Hillyard and Marson, docket number 09-00113 CBTS technology solutions LLC. Petition of Cycinatic bill, any distance incorporated for CCN to provide facilities based competing local exchange telecommunications services. Consider company requests to counsel certificate of convenience and necessity.
Chairman? Yes, mr. chairman.
My being.
Finally you are. Thank.
Thank you. Thank you. I think I've had two eye votes and then I've been off a panel and now we're back on this one. Thank you for hearing me.
Alright, we'll record those two avails. Thank you, dr. Hill.
Based on the record in the stocket in the absence of any remaining customers in Tennessee, I find that CBTS Technology Solutions LLC, formerly known as Cincinnati Bell, any Distance Inc, has satisfied the requirements for relinquishing its designation as a competing local exchange telecommunications carrier provider in Tennessee. Therefore, our move to cancel the certificate of public convenience and necessity previously granted to CBTS Technology Solutions LLC for providing competing local exchange telecommunications in accordance with the company's request and consistent with the public interest. Is there a.
Second? June seconds.
Is there any discussion on the motion? Are we ready for a vote? A roll called vote on the motion is required with a docket colork, please take the vote.
Vice Chairman good?
Good thoughts are.
Commissioner Hillyard?
Commissioner Jones.
Commissioner Morrison?
Hello thoughts I.
Okay.
All right, the motion passes.
Section seven Commissioners Good Jones Hill Hillyard and Marson, Docket number 09-00113 CBTS Technology Solutions LLC.
Let's it.
Oh, I I'm sorry. Yeah. To provide facilities based competing local exchange telecommunication services consider company request to council certificate or convenience and necessity?
We just did that.
We just did that one. I thought so, ok. I'm sorry Docket number 20 five-0089 Tennessee American water company. Petition of Tennessee American water Company to adopt annual review mechanism and armed tariff pursuant to tennessee code annotated section 65-five-103 parentheses D parentheses six here in consider amended petition.
I'll call this hearing to order. This matter was duly noticed for hearing on 7 August 2026, and it's being conducted in accordance with the uniform administrator Procedures act. See that the parties are coming forward if you'll introduce yourselves for the record and I'll start with mr. Merline.
Water company.
Bill Drenon representing Tennessee American water comm.
Happening.
Sheilena Brown with the consumer Advocate Office of the Attorney General's office and with me I have Clark Camell with the office.
It's my understanding that the consumer advocate will give opening remarks that summarize the status of the dr.. You may proceed.
I'm sorry can I also announce my appearance for the city of Chad Newark Cecilia Garrett?
Okay, thank you.
Good morning. Commissioners commission staff, I am going to provide a recap and update on this docket. On 18 November 2025, Tennessee American filed a petition to adopt an annual review mechanism.
And arm terror. Both the consumer advocate and the city of Chanuta intervened in the stocket and the interventions were granted. The parties engaged in discovery and also filed direct and rebuttal testimony. On 16 March 2026 at the authority conference.
In accordance with the hundred and 20 day statutory deadline, this commission heard the petition and denied Tennessee Americans petition for an arm and arm tower. Based on the administrative record, the panel found that Tennessee Americans petition was not in the public interest and.
Loaded unanimously to deny the proposed armed tariff and arm an arm. In denying the petition, the panel did set forth with specificity the reasons for the denial in order to allow for modifications in the event of the refiling of the petition by Tennessee American.
Consistent with tennessee code annotated 6551 oh 3D1 and D six. The panel stated that if Tennessee American decided to amend its proposed armed tariff that certain modifications were necessary as a condition for approval.
This commission directed that the schedules listed in consumer advocates exhibit CDK-nine needed to be incorporated into Tennessee American's required annual filing and proposed annual rate review mechanism schedules.
Also, other supporting documents and granular data were required to be submitted with the filing or made readily available upon request by the commission's staff, the consumer advocate and the intervening parties. Tennessee American was directed to add clarifying language to expressly state that the rate making adjustments used.
To determine tennessee American Waters earnings position under the annual rate mechanism are consistent with the rate making adjustments adopted in the order of setting utility rates in commission docket 20 four-00032.
That was Tennessee Americans 2025 rate case. Any approved annual rate review mechanisms rate adjustments including rate charges and circ credits were to be calculated and expressed in dollars excuse me, rather than percentages?
The rate adjustment provisions to be provided by Tennessee American were to propose any re revenue allocation and rate design methodology in each annual rate review mechanism filing. Carrying charges related to any calculated revenue sufficiency or deficiency.
Should be computed using Tennessee Americans approved rate of return for the period commencing with the midpoint of the historic base period and ending with the effective date of any approved rate adjustments. And the annual rate review mechanism filing deadline would be NO later than 1 March each year and.
Any approved rate adjustment taking effect the following 1 July. On 18 June 2026, Tennessee American filed an amended petition to adopt the arm and arm tower. The consumer advocate and Tennessee American filed supplemental testimony.
Discussions with Tennessee American as to the amended petition. On 24 July 2026, the parties determined there was NO outstanding issues.
In the stocket and jointly represented to the commission that there were NO other outstanding procedural matters. And it was the joint position of the parties that this matter was right for consideration on the merits by the commission. It is the position of the parties in this matter.
That it should be resolved in favor of the positions set forth in Tennessee Americans amended position as clarified and consistent with Tennessee American's responses to the commission's data request. The parties hereby wave both opening statements.
Live presentation of testimony and cross examination of witnesses by the parties. Tennesssee American witness, Phillip Drenon, the consumer Advocates Witness Clark Camell are available for questions by the commission and commission staff.
I would like to thank Tennessee American and Council for their cooperation in this process and the sharing of the necessary information both formally and informally through the discovery process. Also, the consumer advocate like to express its appreciation to the City of Chadaganuga for its professionalism and willingness to work with us and thanks the city and council for the ongoing efficient and amicable relationship. Thank you.
Thank you. Before we begin testimony, would the company like to move all docket volumes into the official record? Without objection, so moved since the American water may call its witness to be sworn by the administrative judge.
Mr. Drenon.
Good morning. Please raise your right hand.
Do you.
The testimony you're about to.
What give will be truthful?
Thank you.
Council you may proceed.
Thank you. Mr. John, would you please state your full name?
I know.
And position with the company.
Phil Dredon, Director of Rates and Regulatory for American Water Work Service Company representing Tennesssee American Water Company.
Mr. Johnan, did you cause a brief.
About testimony both direct and rebuttals to be submitted with.
Yes I did. Do you have any corrections or changes to that preval testimony this morning?
No, I do not.
If I ask you the questions that are set forth there in this morning with your answer.
Just be the same.
Yes.
Of that pre file testimony. Good morning.
Good morning. Thank you for the opportunity to speak before the commission today. My name is Phil Drunnon. I am the director of Rates and Regulatory for American Waterworks Service company, which is a subsidiary of American Waterworks company that provides services to American Water subsidiaries, including Tennessee American water.
Company. After a contested case hearing, the presiding panel denied Tennessee American Water's arm petition in its June five 2026 arm order. The commission outlined several required modifications that would need to be addressed by Tennessee American Water Company for approval.
On June 18 2026, the company filed an amended petition of Tennessee American water Company to adopt an annual rate review mechanism in armed tariff pursuant to tennessee code annotated 60 five-five-one oh 3D6.
Addressing each one of the condition conditions outlined by the commission. In my supplemental direct testimony, in support of the amended petition, Tennessee American water proposed 47 total schedules in supporting work papers that would include the requisite integral information, supporting down.
Documents and granular accounting data required to meet the commission's ordered modifications of the company's armed petition. Thereafter, the CAD submitted Clark Camel's Supplemental testimony, and Tennessee American Water submitted my supplemental read fuddle testimony. On July 17 2026.
Tennessee American water responded to the commission's data requests further explaining and clarifying 47 proposed armed schedules submitted in support of the com company's amended petition. In response to the commission's data requests, the company explained which schedules from exhibit CDK nine.
Were inapplicable to Tennessee American water, which schedules from exhibit CDK nine were merged or consolidated with the proposed Tennessee American water schedules, and which schedules, in which proposed company schedules aligned with the corresponding schedules listed in exhibit CDK nine. It's clarified by the company's July 17 2026 responses to the commission's data requests.
Seeking clarification on how Tennessee American Waters proposed 47 schedules correlate with the schedules listed in the exhibit CDK nine, the parties, Tennessee American water company, the CAD, and the City of Chat Nuga have agreed that the amended petition satisfies the condition set forth. The commission's June five 2026 are.
From order.
The parties have resolved all contested issues regarding the amended petition, and it is the position of the parties that this matter should be resolved in favor of the position set forth in Tennessee American water Company's amended petition, as clarified and consistent with the company's responses to the commission's data requests. As a result.
Tennessee American water, respectfully requests that the commission find the company's amended petition meets the modifications ordered by the commission in its June five 2026 arm order and approved Tennessee American water's petition to adopt an annual rate review mechanism in armed tariff. Thank you.
Do the commissioners or staff have any questions? The witness is excused. We have the consumer advocates witness mr. Cammell available. Do the commissioners or staff have any questions from mr. Cammell? We have concluded the testimony and are ready for the party's closing remarks. We'll hear from the consumer advocate 1st.
The consumer advocate would res respectfully request that the commission approve the amended petition has filed.
Next we'll hear from the city of Chadaganuka.
We would also request that the amended petition be approved.
Now we're here from Tennessee American.
Thank you.
American would also like to thank.
As well as the city of Chadaganuga for their cooperation.
In this amended potential.
And Tennessee American would also like to thank the commission's staff for giving us the time.
Out and reach an agreeable settlement.
Alright, as this is a public hearing, is there any member of the public who would like to comment on the matter? Record reflect that NO one is seeking recognition to comment. I have a motion. Based on the evidentiary record, I find that Tennessee American Water Company's amended petition to adopt an annual rate review mechanism consisting of testimony and a terriff amended amendment bought on 18 June 2026 is compliant with.
The commission's 5 June 2020 order and the statutory requirement and is in the public interests. The amended petition also appropriately provides for the application of armed surcharges or sir credits to special contract customers on a volumetric basis consistent with the past commission practice under previously approved alternative rate mechanisms. Therefore, a move for approval of Tennessee American Water's amended armed petition, ISO move. Is there a second?
Nope.
Okay, is there any discussion on the motion? And are we ready to vote? A roll call on this motion is required with the docklet clerk take the vote?
Vice chairman good.
That goes.
Commissioner Heel.
Bill loves eye.
The motion passes. Thank you.
Docket number 20 six-00019 audit of Chattanuga gas company's weather normalization adjustment for the period November 12025 to 30 April 2026 consider staff audit.
And its report bought on July second 2026, audit staff reported one in material finding concerning the company's calculations of the weather weather normalization adjustment WNA for the period. 1st the company used incorrect daily actual heating degree days for six billing cycles during the.
Audit period in its in, I'm sorry WNA factor calculations. Audit staff calculated that the result of these errors was an overcollection of $8423.18. Agreed with the error and corrected its cause. Credits have been issued to impacted customers for the resulting.
Overcollection. In addition during its evaluation of whether the WNNA factors were correctly applied, audit staffed identified three sampled commercial customers who were incorrectly billed sales tax. Accepted the finding and made corrections to its billing processes and control procedures.
This finding has NO impact on the WNA calculation. Audit staff concluded that other than the immaterial finding Chad nickel Gas is correctly implementing the mech the mechanics of the WNNA rider. Based on the record, I move approval of the July second 2020 staff audit record is filed including the conclusions contained therein as the move. Is there a second?
20 s.
Is there any discussion on the motion? And are we ready for a vote? A roll call vote on the motion is required. Will the docket clerk please take the vote?
Vice Chairman Good.
Commissioner Hillyard?
Telling about.
Commissioner Jones? Commissioner Morrison?
More eyes.
Commissioner Health.
Commissioner Hill vote.
The motion passes.
Docket number 20 six-00048 United Way of Metro Politan Nashville Petition of United Way of Greater Nashville for transfer of the 211 service designation currently held by Coxville Prices 211 center for Montgomery, Houston, and Stewart Counties in Tennessee Consider petition.
A move approval of the petition to transfer and augment the existing 211 designations for Montgomery Houston and Stewart counties to United Way of Greater Nashville as a move. Is there a second?
1 s.
Is there any discussion on the motion? Are we ready to vote? A row call on the motion is required with the docket clerk take the boat.
Vice chairman good.
Commissioner Hill.
Hillyard real time.
Commissioner Morrison.
Commissioner Hill?
The mentioner of hillboard's eye.
Motion passes.
Section ten commissioners Jones Hill Hillyott High and Morrison. Docket number 20 six-00020 Atmos energy corporation. Audit of Atmos energy Corporations whether or not.
Normalization adjustment for the period October 12025 to 30 April 2026 consider staff audit.
Audit staff files auditor report with the commission on 8 July 2026 and reported two in material findings. 1st, atmos used incorrect actual daily heating degree days on ten days. The audit period consists of 243 days at four weather stations to calculate the weather normalization.
Adjustment. Parenthesis WNA parenthesis closed factors. The staff recommend the resulting net over collections of $8175.13 be added to the actual cost adjustment. Parenthesis is open, ACA parenthesis closed, account balance in the company's next ACA files.
And with the commission. At must agree to this recommendation. Second, at must use inaccurate normal daily heating degree days for total of 79 weather obser observation. Staff recommended the resulting net under recovery of $55644.67 be added to the ACA account balance and the.
His next ACA filing with the commission, atmos agreed to this recommendation. Artis staff concluded that except for the two in material findings noted in this report, atmos is correctly implementing the mechanisms of the WNA rider as approved. Based on the record, I move approval of the 8 July 2026 staff audit report as filed in.
Including the findings and recommendations contained therein, ISO move. Is there a second?
One seconds.
Is there any discussion on this motion? Are we ready to vote? A roll called vote on the motion is required, will the docket clerk take the vote?
Hello you votes are.
Commissioner Jones.
That one's got time.
Commissioner Heel.
Hill both side.
The motion passes.
Dr. number 20 six-00032 chatter Nuaga gas company chatter Nuga gas company petition for approval of his 2025 annual rate review file in pursuant to tennessee code annotated section 65-five-103 parentheses D parentheses six. Here and consider settlement agreement or alternatively here and consider petition.
I'll call this hearing to order. This matter was duly noticed for hearing.
Oh, owner.
On 7 August 2026, and it's being conducted in accordance with the uniform Administrative Procedures Act, will the parties please introduce yourself for the record? We'll start with my left and go right.
John Dollar out of beller Snow for Chatternuga Gas and with me is Tiffany Williams on behalf of the company. Ryan mcgie on behalf of the consumer advocate, we have Hal Novak on the phone in case you have any questions for him. Thank you. Good.
According to the parties letter filed in this docket for consideration of the stipulation and settlement agreement, the parties have agreed to waive opening statements closing arguments, and cross examination of the witness who will present the settlement agreement. The commissioners and staff will have an opportunity to ask questions and the public may comment. If the panel rejects the settlement agreement, we will proceed with a hearing on the merit.
With that explanation of procedure for this matter, we will begin with the company like to move all docket violins into the official record. Yes. Without objections so moved. Chatternugue Gas may call its witness to be sworn in by the administrative law judge assigned to this docket mr. Concliner.
The chatter over your gas calls Tiffany Willings. Miss Wings, do you swear a firm of testimony you'll give them this case that will be.
Trueful.
Yes. Thank you. So you can proceed. Miss Williams, can you state your name, position, and business address for the record?
Yes, my name is Tiffany Willings. I'm with the southern company gas. I addressed 07:25 Whatspect Stree Street Atlanta Georgia 30308.
Miss Williams, did you prepare pre filed direct testimony, rebuttal testimony and supplemental testimony in sub in support of a settlement agreement in this docket? Yes, it is. Do you have any changes or corrections to your testimony? No, I did not. Can you provide a summary of your testimony to the commission?
Good morning commissioners and staff. On behalf of chattering gas company, we would like to thank you for the opportunity to present a brief summary of our settlement agreement regarding the company's 2026 arm filing for the 2025 historic base period. I'd also like to assend our appreciate.
Creation to the consumer advocate division of tennis of the Tennessee Attorney General's office. Both the council and mr. Novak were instrumental in reaching the agreement were respectfully asking you to approve today. We initiated our 7th annual rate review on 20 April requesting a total rate adjustment of $3747890. Following three rounds of discovery.
Settlement discussions several adjustments were made and the annual reconciliation revenue requirement resulting in a net decrease of a hundred and $34642. These are detailed in the settlement arm model exhibit tW-four.
Filed on 27 July. After incorporating these adjustments, the final rate recovery amounts were we're requesting approval for is $3613249, which represents a consensus between Company and the consumer advocate.
I'd also like to note one item addressed in the settlement as a part of the arm following the company excludes lobby and costs from recovery consistent with the last rate case order methodology. Prior to this year's arm filing CGC identified that conservatively 25 % of its external affairs caused.
Could arguably be attributed to lobbying related activities and excluded that amount in its initial filing. Through settlement CGC and the consumer advocate agreed to a 50 % exclusion of external affairs costs. The parties have also agreed to meet and confer before the next armed filing.
To discuss the treatment of external affairs and CGC has committed to including supporting testimony and documentation on this topic with this next petition. With the rate recovery amount agreed upon, we turned to rate design. CGC and the consumer advocate recommended that the proposed rate increase be allocated across customer classes using an equal percentage methodology consistent with our prior armed proceedings.
Exceptions apply to cgc's special contracts, customers whose recommended rate treatment remains consistent with previous commission orders. Present with me today is Miss Ashley Betty, manager of Rates and Terriff administration for southern company Gas, who can respond to any detailed questions you might have related to the consistent consistencies.
Recommended rate to design. Also present with me today is mr. Paul Leeth, our regional director of Operations for Chatter Newark Gas company, who can answer any operational questions you might have. In each of our armed cases, the company has worked to thoughtfully balance the need for substantial new investments essential to reliably serving the growing needs of.
Of both new and existing customers with our deep responsibility to keep rates affordable for all. We believe this settlement reflects the shared commitment and represents a meaningful step toward ensuring long term service quality and affordability for the communities we serve. And would like to thank you again for the opportunity to present this overview and we look forward to your consideration.
One of the settlement agreement.
Thank you. We we have NO further witnesses.
Okay, did the commission or staff have any question? The witnesses excuse. We will hear the parties the opportunity to give closing remarks. We're here from the consumer advocate 1st.
Thank you mr. mr. mr. commissioner. I just want to thank the staff for their patience with us as we've got, we barely made the deadline for the settlement and we appreciate their, their patience and professionalism. Thank you.
Likewise I'll let go mr. Mcgeeky's statements appreciation of the staff with their patience and we thank the commission. I'd also like to extend a gratitude to the consumer advocate for their professionalism disability and cooperation and we look forward to continuing that excellent working relationship. Thank you.
As this is the public hearing, is any member of the public who would like to comment on this matter?
That the record reflected NO one is seeking recognition to comment if we're ready to liberate our motion. Commission appreciates the party's effort to work together toward a settlement. Following the settlement agreement late after the deadline date in this procedural schedule creates creates an undue burden on staff because it must be evaluated within a very short time frame.
In this case, the commission will make an exception and will consider the late file settlement. Parties are advised, however, that in future proceedings, the commission will not consider settlement files if the parties do not meet the deadlines as established in the docket's procedural order. Based on careful review of the evidential record, I find approval of the settlement agreement is as filed by.
The parties on 7 August 2026, including the parties agreed upon net revenue deficiency of $3000613 $613249 to be recovered through revised fixed and volumetric rates effective 1 September 2026. Further I move approval of the rate design is supported by both parties and presented in the company's exhibit aV-four and schedule 17.
In 17.1 and exhibit TW-four all filed on 27 July 2026 in support of the settlement. As a part of this settlement, the parties agreed to exclude 50 % of the company's external affairs department expenses as an approximation of the company's lobbying expenses, which are prohibited from being recovered from customers by commission Ruz. This agreed to amount in this proceeding shall not set precedent or represent any formal changes in the approved method.
For the company's alternate rate mechanism. Per the settlement, I direct the parties to meet prior to next year's filing for the purpose of addressing the appropriate approach for computing the amount of lobbying and lobbying related expenses to exclude from the company's proposal along with determining what constitutes the necessary supporting document.
Patients and testimony. Next, I direct the company to file revised tariff sheets with the commission that are consistent with the terms of the settlement agreement. Finally, I find that the company's annual rate review mechanism allows for timely recovery of its reasonable and prudent expenditures necessary to provision safe and reliable natural gas services that needs.
The more costly rate cases, which the company might otherwise have to pursue. Therefore, I find that the company's annual rate review mechanism continues to be continues to be in the public interests. The preliminary pending preliminary motions filed by the consumer advocate are dismissed as mood in accordance with the party's agreement, ISO mood. There a second.
Go ahead.
Is there any discussion on the motion? Are we ready to vote? A roll called vote on the motion is required, will the docket park pick the vote?
Weird you're Both.
Commissioner Jones? Commissioner Morrison?
Commissioner Hill?
The motion passes.
Thank you. Thank you.
Docket number 20 six-00043 Atmost Energy Corporation. Petition of Atmos energy Corporation for approval of the franchise agreement with the town of Jonesborough, Washington County Tennessee here and consider petition.
Our call this here in the order. I'll let everyone take their seat.
This matter was duely noticed for hearing on August 72026 and is being conducted in accordance with the uniform Administrative Procedures Act. Will the company please come forward, which you have already, would you introduce yourself start on my left and go to my right? Mark Martin, Adamson Energy.
Eric Lybeck from Sims Funk appearing on behalf of Atmos Energy. Cole shot also from Sims Funk here on behalf of Atmos Energy.
Okay, does Admiss have any opening remarks?
No, not in this docket.
Before we begin testimony with the company I'd like to move all docket files into the official record.
Yes, we would.
Not objections so moved. Atlas may call its witness to be sworn in by the administrative law judge assigned to this docket.
Sorry, Atmos Energy calls mr. Mark Martin to the stand.
Miss mr. Martin.
Thank you. Do you swear or from.
It will be truthful. Thank you. Council, you may proceed.
Mr. Martin, would you please state your name and title for the record?
My name is Mark Martin. I'm Vice President Rates and regulatory fairs.
Are you the same Mark Martin who submitted pre filed direct testimony in this matter?
As I am.
If I ask you the questions contained in that direct testimony of this hearing today, would your answers remain the same?
They would.
Would you like to adopt that pre filed testimonies or testimony in this previous.
Yes I will.
Mr. Martin, would you please provide a summary of your testimony for the panel?
Yes, good morning. Atmass Energy has served the town of Jonesperore with natural government.
Ask for the.
Past 20 years under a franchise agreement which has expired. Earlier this year, Atmos Energy in the town of Jonesborough negotiated one year extension of the current existing franchise agreement.
With two one year extensions, which will allow atmos energy to continue providing natural gas to the town of Jonesborough. The terms of the franchise agreement are identical and have not been modified in any shape or form. We believe the extension is necessary and proper for the public convenience and in the public interest.
So we.
Requesting approval under Tednessee code, annotated 65 dashboard.
107.
Thank you mr. Martin. Atmos Energy has NO further questions for mr. Martin at this time.
But I just like to make any conclusion.
I would just like to thank the commissioners and staff for their attention to this matter and we respectfully ask the petition be granted.
Any members of the.
Would like to make a comment at this time.
That's a recorded, don't want to speak to the record.
Based on the.
Record. I find it.
I believe I'm sorry they're they're looking at me. So there's someone from the city of Jonesburn possibly on the phone.
Yeah. Okay.
No, I apologize. The town manager Glenn Rosen Off is also on the call and available for questions.
I don't believe anyone has any questions for him. Do you have any comments to make, sir?
Mr. Rosadolle.
Yes not.
Alright, based on the administrative record I find that the terms of atmos Energy Corporations franchise agreement with the town of Jonesborough Tendency affair and reading.
Anymore.
Further I find the agreement properly conserved conserves the public interests and is necessary for the public convenience of furnishing natural gas services to the town of Jonesborough community. Therefore move approval of the franchise agreement as filed, is there a second?
John seconds.
Is there any discussion on the motion? Are we ready to vote? A roll called vote on the motion if required, will the dr. Clerk take the dot.
Tell you Bozak.
CS.
Commissioner Morrison?
Commissioner Hill?
Hello votes.
Commissioner hi.
The motion passes.
Section 15 Commissioners Good Jones Hill Hi and Marrison, docket number 20 six-00014 Atmost energy Corporation. Petition of Atmos energy Corporation for approval of optional monthly facilities charge for elect electronic flow measurement equipment for demand/commodity, interruptible and transportation gas service customers here in consider petition.
I'll call this hearing to order. This matter was duely noticed for hearing on 7 August 2026 and is being conducted in accordance with the uniform Administrative Procedures Act. And I see that the parties have come forward.
I could you introduce yourself starting from left to right, my left? I'm Daniel Bertardi with Atmos Energy.
Yeah. Eric Lybeck from Sims Funk up here on behalf of Atmos Energy. Cool shot from Sims Funk as well on behalf of Atmos Energy.
Does atmos, have any opening remarks? Yes, briefly, commissioners. Good morning Eric Livec on behalf of Atmos Energy. This is an unopposed petition that requests approval of a tariff modification to allow atmos energy to offer a monthly facilities charge in connection with its electronic flow measurement or EFF.
Equipment. This is an additional optional benefit that the company would like to make available to its customers who will soon be forced to migrate to a new type of EFM equipment due to changes in the technology. As mr. Birtadi is here to explain, this will allow customers if they choose to opt into a $75 a month charge instead of paying 100 % of the costs of new equipment up front as they would otherwise be required to do under the pariff.
Before we get testimony, would the company like to move all docket filings into the official record? Yes, we would. Without objections so moved, atmos may call its witness to be sworn in by the administrative judge assigned to this docket. Atmos Energy calls mr. Daniel Bertodi.
Test cases.
Is the truth will be truthful. Thank you. You can receive miss Robert. Thank you. Mr. Bertadi, would you please state your name and title for the record? My name is Daniel Bertadi. I am the vice President of Business Development for Atmos Energy. Are you the same Daniel Bertadi who submitted pre filed direct testimony in this matter?
Yes I am. If I ask you the questions contained in that pre filed testimony of this hearing today, would your answers remain the same? Yes, they would. Would you like to adopt that pre filed testimony, as your testimony in this proceeding? Yes, I would. All right mr. Bertadi, would you please provide a summary of your testimony for the panel? Yes, thank you. The purpose of my testimony is to request approval of terriff modifications that would allow.
For atmos energy to offer certain classes of customers the ability to opt into a monthly facilities charge for electronic flow measurement or EFM equipment. Under the terms of the company's existing tariff, certain classes of customers with a significant demand such as interruptible gas and transportation gas service are required to use EFM equipment. They are also required to pay all costs associated with that EFM equipment.
Historically, the data generated by EFM equipment was transmitted to atmos Energy through either cellular equipment or plain old telephone service, also known as pots. Atmos Energy currently has customers who are still using pots equipment. Under federal regulations, however, there has been a forced migration away from pots.
As a result, approximately 25 of atmos energy's customers will be required to purchase cellular equipment in the near future in order to continue receiving gas service under the company's tariff. As a service to its customers, the company has proposed tariff amendments that would allow customers to opt into a ma.
Monthly charge of $75 in exchange for the company assuming all costs associated with installing and maintaining the new equipment. This is a purely voluntary optional charge and customers will not be required to opt into this charge if they would prefer to continue paying for the EFM equipment directly. The company has successfully implemented a similar monthly charge in Kentucky where it has been widely adopted.
As such, we respectfully request that the commission approved the proposed hariff amendment so the company can offer this additional option in Tennessee as a service to its customers. Do the commissioners or staff have any questions?
The witness is excused. Simply again to thank the commissioners and staff for their attention to this matter and respectfully request that the petition be granted, ok? As this is a public hearing, is there any member of the public who would like to make a comment on this matter?
I let the record reflect that NO one is seeking recognition to comment.
Charge for electronic flow measurement equipment provides an additional financing option for the customers.
And therefore serves the public interest, therefore move approval of the proposed optional monthly facilities charge for electronic flow measurement equipment and the related tariff revisions, ISO move. Is there a second? John seconds. Is there any discussion on the motion?
Are we ready to vote? Roll call vote on the motion is required. Will the docket court take the vote?
Should be good.
Oh this.
This is.
Okay Jones Marson Hill and High.
It must be an error there, yeah. Good. Yeah.
So it should be good instead of a helier.
Okay.
Let's start over.
Commissioner Jones? Sorry Commissioner Morrison?
Commissioner Heel.
Commissioner hi.
The motion passes.
Thank you.
Docket number 20 six-00044 petition of Atmos energy corporation for approval of franchise agreement with Metro Lynchberg Moore County Tennessee, here and consider petition.
I'll call this hearing to order. This matter was duely noticed for hearing on 7 August 2026 and is being conducted in accordance with the uniform Administrative Procedures Act. See that the parties have come forward. Would you introduce yourselves for the record, please?
Mark Martin at the Synergy.
Eric Lybeck from Simmers Funk on behalf of atmos Energy I'll also note for the record that we have the Metro Lynchberg Moore county Mayor Sloan Stewart on the line and available for questions in this document. Okay.
Call shot of some Funk here on behalf of atmos Energy as well. Okay. Does Atmos have any opening remarks? No opening remarks mr. Commissioner. Okay. Before we begin testimony, would the company like to move all docket filings into the official record? Yes, it would. Without objections so moved, atmos may call its witness to be sworn in by the administrative judge assigned to this docket. Atmos Energy calls mr. Mark Martin.
Hello.
There or affirmed that the.
Testimony you're about to give.
Helpful.
Thank you.
Mr. Martin, would you please state your name and title for the record?
My name is Mark Martin. I'm vice President of rates and regulatory.
For atmos energy.
Are you the same Mark Martin who submitted pre filed direct testimony in this manner?
As I am.
If I asked you the questions contained in that pre filed testimony at this hearing today, would your answers remain the same? Yes, they would. Would you like to adopt that pre filed testimony as your testimony in this proceeding?
Yes I would.
Mr. Martin, would you please provide a summary of your testimony for the panel?
Yes, good morning again. Atmas Energy has served Metro Lynchberg Moore County with natural gas for the past 20 years under a franchise agreement, which expires this month.
Earlier this year Atmos Energy and Metro Lynchberg.
Org.
More County negotiate a new franchise agreement which will allow atmos energy to continue providing natural gas to Metro Lynchberg Moore County for the next 20 years.
Proposed franchise is nearly identical to the prior franchise. We believe this franchise is necessary and proper for the public convenience and in the public interests. So we're respectfully requesting approval on our Tennessee code annotated 60 five-four-107.
Do the commissioners or staff have any questions? The witness is excused. Would atmos like to make any concluding remarks? Just to thank the commissioners and the commission's staff for its time and respectfully ask that the petition be granted?
Okay, as this is a public hearing, is there any member of the public who would like to make a comment on this matter? Let the record reflect that NO one is seeking recognition to comment. I'd like to thank Mayor Stewart for being available to us today in case there were any questions.
Based on the administrative record I find that the terms of atmos energy Corporations franchise agreement with Metro Lynchberg, more County Tennessee are fair and reasonable. Further, the agreement prop properly conserves the public interest and is necessary for the public convenience of furnishing natural gas services to the Metro Lynchberg community. I therefore move approval of the franchise agreement as filed. Is there a second? John seconds? Is there any discussion on the motion?
Are we ready to vote? A roll call vote on the motion is required. Will the docket clerk take the vote?
Good about.
Commissioner Morrison.
Commissioner Heel.
Hello both. Hi.
The motion passes. Thank you. Alright, that concludes our conference agenda today. We will hold a commissioner meeting immediately following the conference, and so we'll allow a couple minutes for everyone to depart and ask that you kind of leave quietly and if there's NO other business, move your churn. Have a great day. Stay cool. All right, we're gonna start the meeting here in a minute, so if you need to leave, now's a good time to do that, please. Thank you. Hate to hate to run you out.
Yeah, yeah.
Alright, good morning. I'm David Jones Chairman of the commission. I'll call this meeting to order. Commissioner Hills participating electronically and the public may observe this meeting both online and in person consistent with the published notice. The meeting is being recorded. Before we begin I'll again like to introduce Commissioner Patzy Hazelwood.
Just joined the commission Patzy, glad to have you. We'll now move to a roll call will each commissioner please identify themselves for the record and we'll start robbing down on that end.
Mr. Commissioner Morrison.
Present.
Commissioner Hezilwood here.
Turn your mics on.
Alright, commissioner Morrison present?
Commissioner Heidswood.
Mr. Hillgot here.
Commissioner Good here. Chairman Jones here for a few more minutes as chairman.
Commissioner Hill is here on the phone. Can you hear me?
We can hear you. Alright, thank you. The record will show that alright John didn't mean to walk on top of that. Oh, you know how you are. I know. The record will show that all participating commissioners have been identified by name and the commissioner Hill can hear and speak.
To the commission and the public lab will now move forward with the agenda, and because commissioner David Crowd's appointment was not renewed, we cannot, he cannot service chairman despite being elected last month. Today we will hold another election select a chairman for the upcoming two year term from July 12026 to 3 June.
30 2028, are there any nominations for the chairman? Great. Is there a second to mr. Hiliard's nomination?
Commissioner Hill makes for 2nd.
Alright, is there any discussion on this domination? Hearing none a roll call vote is required for the motion, please state your name and your vote either yay or nay and commissioner Jones votes yes.
Morrison boat yes.
That shouldn't.
Has all.
The vouch yes.
Hello strange.
Good votes yes.
Hillvote chefs. Okay, I'm sorry. Hillvote chefs.
All right, the motion passes. Congratulations to Commissioner Hilliard or Chairman Hiliard. I'll gladly pass the gabble to you and appreciate your willingness to serve the next two years Herb I know you've been chairman a number of times and a lot of things on the agenda for the upcoming years. So thank you again.
You're welcome. All right, next we will consider the 2027 commission conference dates proposed by staff. The dates we agree upon our firm but may change later if a need arises. Do any of the commissioners have any proposed changes? I think they're included in the back of our book here.
Were ok with them at this point?
Personally like Mondays but I will not make an issue out of it.
Okay, I personally like Mondays too, but.
Yeah the drive is easier on on Sunday days or Monday.
Oh, are we ready to vote on proposed changes? I moved to approve and adopt the dates as proposed by a staff. Is there a second?
Hill you a second.
Any discussion? Alright, we'll need a row call on the motion that's required. Please state your name and how you vote. Jones votes yes, on those dates.
More but yes.
Hey the way about you.
Yes, hello You'd yes.
Let me go.
Yellow votes yes.
Alright, the motion passes. We've finished the? Good both. Good, I'm sorry. You guys got vote quicker. I'm just too, too fast, I guess. We have finished the agenda and we will now open the floor for public comments. Is there anyone who would like to speak on this agenda item? Alright.
Had to speech prepared to me.
You have a speaker. Alright, for the record, NO one is seeking to come and including chairman Hillierard. In addition, we have NO remote participants registered to speak. Therefore, that concludes our business for the day and our meeting is adjourned. Have a have a safe and blessed day. Thank you.
Thank you mr. chairman. You've done a great job the last two years. We appreciate your leaders.
Sure, thank you.
Thank you mr. Chairman, and thank you incoming chairman. We appreciate your leadership.