Struthers residents could realize lower gas rate

STRUTHERS — City council hurriedly passed legislation that could result in lower natural-gas bills for the city and its residents.

It is a golden opportunity to lock in rates for up to two years while the cost of gas is low, said Mayor Terry Stocker, in pushing at Wednesday’s council meeting for quick passage of an ordinance that gives him the authority to enter into a gas aggregation program with Buckeye Energy Brokers based in Twinsburg.

Thomas M. Bellish, president of Buckeye Energy, said the deal with a natural-gas vendor could be completed within a few days. His firm acts as the middleman between the city and the vendor.

Bellish said it is possible the gas rate could be fixed under $10 per 1,000 cubic feet of gas for up to two years, depending on the market. Tina Morell, city auditor, said the city is paying between $14 and $16 per 1,000 cubic feet.

Stocker said there is no financial risk to the city because Buckeye Energy’s fee is paid by the gas vendor. Also, the mayor said residents can get the same rate as the city, but if they are satisfied with their current gas supplier, there is no requirement that they join the aggregate program.

Next Wednesday, council will interview the four candidates who applied for the job of clerk of council, vacated by the recent resignation of Toni L. Constantino.

The candidates, all Struthers residents and graduates of Struthers High School, are: Michelle L. Bashor, Rose M. Mastell, Sheri L. Noble and Megan R. Shorthouse.

Councilman Robert J. Stouffer, D-2nd, head of the Finance and Legislation Committee, said he hopes council will make a decision on a new clerk the night of the interviews.