St. Petersburg Candidates Debated Utility Future
Candidates discussed replacing Duke Energy during a recent forum held at the Barack Obama Library.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Utilities
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St. Petersburg City Council candidates met at the Barack Obama Library to debate the future of the city's electric utility provider. The discussion centered on a feasibility study regarding the potential replacement of Duke Energy.
Why it matters
The debate highlights a significant divide over municipal power management as the city weighs the costs of independence against current billing concerns. Similar feasibility discussions have occurred elsewhere, with Clearwater recently opting to keep its incumbent provider.
The city is currently reviewing the potential to replace Duke Energy, a process that includes an estimated $70 million transition cost. This follows previous municipal decisions, such as in Clearwater, where the city opted to retain the existing utility provider.
The players
Duke Energy
The current electric utility provider for St. Petersburg whose contract feasibility is currently being studied by the city.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
The federal agency that maintains an agreement with the city for the temporary detention of individuals.
The details
Candidates also addressed city-wide issues, including unanimous opposition to data center construction and the existing agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. They expressed unified support for a November ballot amendment seeking property tax levies to fund water and sewage system improvements.
Timeline
Hurricanes impacted local water and sewage systems in 2024.
A city ballot amendment vote for water improvements is scheduled for November 2026.
The feasibility study for potential utility replacement is expected in early 2027.
Amendment 3 homestead exemptions are slated to increase in 2027.
Projected city property tax revenue losses due to Amendment 3 begin in 2028.
Market Landscape
The debate reflects a broader municipal trend of scrutinizing utility contracts to gain local control over energy costs and management. This move mirrors larger discussions in Florida regarding property tax adjustments as cities navigate the fiscal impact of statewide Amendment 3.
Residents currently paying for costs associated with the closed Crystal River nuclear generator may see changes in their utility landscape based on the study outcomes. Additionally, voters will decide in November 2026 whether to support a tax levy for water and sewage system upgrades.
The takeaway
The upcoming city council election presents a clear choice on whether to pursue independent utility control or maintain current service agreements. Voters should consider how proposed tax amendments for infrastructure might affect their personal property tax bills in the coming years.
What happens next
City officials expect to release the results of the feasibility study regarding an independent electric utility by early 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the local infrastructure and service providers in St. Petersburg Utilities.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WUSF.
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