On December 8, 2022, the Atmos Cities Steering Committee ("ACSC") held a quarterly meeting with representatives from Atmos Energy. During the meeting, the group held a discussion on upcoming gas issues and approved the assessment for ACSC membership. Using the population-based assessment protocol previously adopted by ACSC, the assessment for 2023 is a per capita fee of $0.05. This is the same amount adopted since 2019. The total amount for City of Plano's 2023 ACSC membership dues comes to $14,565. 

ACSC is the largest coalition of cities served by Atmos Mid-Tex, and currently, there are 184 ACSC member cities. ACSC protects the authority of municipalities over the monopoly natural gas provider, and defends the interests of residential and small commercial customers within the cities. Cities are the only consumer advocates that work to keep natural gas rates reasonable. The City's work with ACSC has saved customers millions of dollars in unreasonable charges. ASCS continues to be an effective voice at the Railroad Commission, the Legislature, and in the courts. 

Funding for this item is included in the approved FY 2022-23 budget. This item, in the amount of $14,565, authorizes the continuation of the City's membership with Atmos Cities Steering Committee (ACSC) and the payment of the City's annual assessment for continued membership. 

Continuation of the City's membership with the Atmos Cities Steering Committee relates to the Strategic Plan Critical Success Factors or Residential and Commercial Economic Vitality and Excellent, Innovative, and Accountable City Government.