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NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — Local NewsSeptember 2, 2026Hillsborough

St. Petersburg activists launch petition to create city-owned electric utility for 2028 ballot

A coalition of community groups has launched a petition drive to place a municipal charter amendment on the 2028 ballot that would transition St. Petersburg to a city-owned electric utility. This effort follows the July 31 expiration of the city's 30-year franchise agreement with Duke Energy.

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Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — Local News

Why It Matters

The outcome of this campaign could fundamentally change how St. Petersburg residents receive and pay for electricity, potentially replacing a private provider with a city-run system and impacting the $20 million in annual franchise fees currently used to fund city services.

Key Facts

  • The 30-year franchise agreement between St. Petersburg and Duke Energy expired on July 31.
  • The city previously received over $20 million annually in franchise fees from Duke Energy, totaling $600 million over the contract term.
  • Public Power St. Pete is seeking to place a charter amendment on the 2028 ballot to create a municipal utility.
  • A city-commissioned feasibility study on the utility takeover is expected to be released later this year.
  • Duke Energy estimates a municipal takeover would cost up to $4.1 billion.
  • Duke Energy claims a takeover would require 150 miles of new power lines and nearly a decade to complete.
  • Proponents cite a Clearwater study suggesting a municipal utility could lower rates by 10% initially and up to 20% over time.
  • Duke Energy warns that losing the franchise agreement could lead to local tax increases or cuts to public services.

Who's Mentioned

organizationPublic Power St. Pete“The coalition organizing the petition drive.”personJason Scott“Organizer for the Public Power St. Pete campaign.”personRichie Floyd“St. Pete City Council member supporting the feasibility study.”organizationDuke Energy“The current private electric utility provider.”locationSt. Petersburg“The city where the utility transition is proposed.”