The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) operates the county-owned electric, gas, water & wastewater systems under the jurisdiction of the Board of Public Utilities. The Board meets the third Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. and the public is always welcome. Proposed rate increases are determined by the Board of Public Utilities and adopted by ordinance following County Council’s public hearing, and ordinance adoption.
The DPU is funded by rates paid for electric, gas, water and wastewater services and auxiliary fees, and has provided the community with these services for more than 40 years. Established under Article 5 of the 1968 Charter for the Incorporated County of Los Alamos, the DPU provides payments to Los Alamos County in lieu of the franchise fees and taxes that would normally be assessed against a privately-owned utility.
- Purpose: To establish policies for the operation of the Department of Public Utilities, subject to review and approval of the County Council.
- Authorization: Los Alamos County Charter (Article V) and Los Alamos County Ordinance No. 54, 11/1/66.
- Composition: Five members, must be registered to vote in the County.
- Term: Five years
- Meetings: Third Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the Annex Conference Room, 901 Trinity Dr.
- Staff Liaison: John E. Arrowsmith, Utilities Department 662-8272.
- Email - bpu@lacnm.us