Bowling Green · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Bowling Green public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Tree trimming and electric line clearance funding
The utility is falling behind on keeping trees off power lines despite spending $112,000 of a $175,000 budget this year. A full-year crew could cost $250,000–$300,000 in the 2027 budget, and that will factor into future utility rates. Better line clearance should mean fewer outages.
Rider E rooftop solar surcharge
Customer-owned solar customers will see their excess-generation credit rise from 7.5 to 9.5 cents/kWh, but the facilities charge drops 50% in 2026 and is phased out in 2027 as fixed customer charges rise to recover distribution costs. About 10-11 solar interconnection customers are affected.
Backup water supply vulnerability
Jim Evans warned the drought-stricken Maumee River leaves Bowling Green at risk of a water crisis and pushed for a Lake Erie or groundwater backup supply. Council Member J. Dennis also asked about a planned water interconnection for emergency redundancy.