ITC Midwest is looking to install franchise fees for electrical service to Mount Vernon.

Jamie Tuleno of ITC Midwest explained that Alliant Energy sold off the transmission lines for electrical service in 2008 to ITC Midwest.

ITC Midwest has been proactively trying to reinforce the electrical grid. As Mount Vernon and Lisbon communities continue to grow, the organization knows that there may be projects coming to the area in the future.

The group is looking to have franchise fees beginning in 2027.

“We’re trying to get ahead of this project by about a year,” Tuleno said.

While putting distribution lines underground in cities works, due to the lower voltage of many of the lines, the higher powered transmission poles are always going to be on thicker standing light poles.

“It’s just not safe to bury those lines underground,” Tuleno said.

Tuleno also reminded area non-profits that there is $5,000 for community impact projects that those groups can apply for in the future.

The City of Mount Vernon will be evaluating an ordinance for franchise fees for ITC Midwest over the span of the next three meetings.