ANGOLA, Ind. (WLKI)- The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission has rejected an $800 million expansion proposal from the Northern Indiana Public Service Co., although some projects in Steuben and LaGrange counties could still move forward separately.
According to Angola Mayor Dave Martin, two IURC members specifically identified projects in Angola, LaGrange, Howe and Shipshewana that could be completed by NIPSCO through an alternative approval process.
Martin updated the Angola Common Council on the commission's decision Monday evening.
Steuben and LaGrange counties have limited electric and natural gas capacity, with NIPSCO supplying both services. Local officials have argued that additional infrastructure is needed to support future residential and economic development.
NIPSCO representatives were expected to hold internal discussions before meeting with local officials about the company's next steps.
Martin also participated in an online meeting with Indiana Secretary of Energy and Natural Resources Suzanne Jaworowski, Steuben County Commissioner Wil Howard and Steuben County Economic Development Corp. Executive Director Isaac Lee.
The local officials encouraged NIPSCO to continue pursuing the northeast Indiana projects despite the commission's rejection of the larger expansion plan.
Jaworowski committed to visiting the area and meeting with a small group of local leaders. Details of that meeting were still being arranged.
Martin cautioned that it could take at least seven months before any revised projects receive decisions or regulatory approval.
In other business, the Common Council approved the first reading of an ordinance establishing compensation for elected city officials in 2027.
The proposal would set the mayor's salary at $3,281.92 every two weeks, or $85,329.92 annually. The clerk-treasurer would receive $3,451.23 every two weeks, or $89,731.98 annually.
Council members would receive $1,700 quarterly, totaling $6,800 annually.
The council's next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8.