Bill > SB314

This bill amends existing law to clarify and expand the operating parameters of the Municipal Utilities Board of Decatur, which manages the city's electric, gas, water, and wastewater services. Key changes include allowing the board to organize utilities as it deems advisable, such as consolidating financial operations or management structures, and explicitly permitting the board to employ or discharge a general manager and other staff. The bill also grants the board the authority to delegate employment and discharge powers to managers, adopt fiscal years, and enter into necessary contracts on behalf of the city, with specific limitations on contracts for purchasing utility services at wholesale and selling services that bind the city for over 10 years, both requiring city governing body approval. Furthermore, the board is empowered to collect and expend utility income, conduct legal actions in the city's name for service accounts and agreements, and must adhere to existing contracts and bond ordinances. The bill also updates provisions for indemnifying board members and managers against claims and liabilities, excluding willful misconduct or gross negligence, and allows the board to purchase insurance for this purpose. Finally, it mandates that the board operate utilities economically and in a manner that promotes economic growth within their service areas, while also accounting for and transferring net revenues to the City of Decatur as determined by the city's governing body.

Government Affairs

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search