ST. MARTINVILLE, La. (KLFY) — The St. Martinville City Council approved a three-month utility payment plan on March 6 to help residents manage rising electric bills. The initiative aims to provide financial relief following a significant increase in fuel charges, officials said.
City officials attributed the higher costs to a rise in the price of fuel used for electricity generation. Because these fuel charges are pass-through costs, the city has no direct control over the rate increases. Local leaders acknowledged that the unexpected expenses have created a financial strain for families and seniors.
The approved relief option allows qualifying customers to divide the electric portion of their Feb. 28, 2026, bill into three equal installments. These payments will be scheduled during the months of March, April and May. This specific billing cycle reflects the electricity used by residents during January, officials said…