A partnership that works for Thatcher.
For decades, Southwest Gas has proudly served communities around Arizona with safe, affordable and clean natural gas. Earlier this year, Southwest Gas purchased the natural gas system from Graham County Utilities and began serving Thatcher on January 18, 2022. We are pleased to be part of the Thatcher community and look forward to serving you for years to come.
Consistent with Arizona state law, on February 28, 2022, Mayor Randy Bryce and the Thatcher Town Council unanimously approved and referred a franchise agreement to the voters of the Town of Thatcher for their consideration. Approval of Question 1 would formalize the mutually beneficial relationship between the Town of Thatcher and Southwest Gas by establishing contractual rules, regulations and procedures that will dictate the company’s work in the community. Question 1 offers many important benefits to the Town of Thatcher and its residents including:
Access to Affordable Energy
Ensures Thatcher has consistent access to balanced energy options, including affordable and clean natural gas.
Community Investment for Thatcher
Provides the Town of Thatcher with a revenue stream to support public safety, streets, parks and facilities.
Accountability for All
Establishes operational rules of the road and holds Southwest Gas accountable to working within the rules established by Town of Thatcher.
Infrastructure to Support Commerce
Ensures Thatcher has the necessary energy infrastructure to support jobs in the community.
Formalizes the partnership between Thatcher and Southwest Gas
If Question 1 is ratified by the voters, Southwest Gas will be granted non-exclusive rights to use streets, alleys and other public places to serve current and new customers in Thatcher. In exchange, Southwest Gas will provide Thatcher an annual payment equal to 2% of the gross revenues that the company generates within the town. These funds will go to support critical town services like public safety, road repair and parks and recreation programs. Though Thatcher does not currently have a Franchise Agreement with Southwest Gas, the company holds franchise rights with 50 municipalities and counties across Arizona.
Southwest Gas humbly asks for your YES vote on Question 1 to continue our productive relationship with the Town of Thatcher.
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For further information, please contact Southwest Gas Public Affairs at
GovernmentAffairs@swgas.com
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Southwest Gas is Committed to ArizonaCommunity InvolvementMore than $1.4 million with over $918,000 contributed by Southwest Gas employees to 73 Arizona non-profits in 2021. Capital Investment in Arizona$970 million projected between 2021 – 2023.
Major EmployerOver 1,000 Arizona employees who live and work in the communities we serve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a franchise?
A franchise is a contract between the town and Southwest Gas. The franchise gives us a non-exclusive rights to use streets, alleys and other public rights-of-way to construct, maintain and operate our natural gas facilities safely and efficiently to serve customers.
Does Southwest Gas have franchise agreements with other municipalities?
Yes. We have franchise agreements with 50 municipalities and counties that we serve in Arizona.
Why do we need to vote on a franchise?
The Arizona Constitution requires that voters in the town approve a municipal franchise.
How long will the franchise be in effect?
Franchise agreements are established for a 25-year term by the Arizona Constitution. If approved, this agreement will be in effect until 2046.
Does the franchise involve a payment to the Town of Thatcher?
Yes. As with the other Southwest Gas municipal franchises, the franchise fee is 2% percent of Southwest Gas’ revenue from customers within the town. The franchise fee funds important town services such as road improvements, community & economic development, and the town's facilities.
Why should voters approve the franchise between Southwest Gas and the Town of Thatcher?
The franchise is important because it provides stability and helps the Town of Thatcher effectively and economically plan in coordination with Southwest Gas. It also ensures we are using rights-of-way safely and efficiently and that we comply with regulations regarding the use of town streets for our facilities.
What happens if a majority of voters do not approve the franchise?
Elections will be held until an agreement is approved by voters, as required by the Arizona Constitution. Each election would create additional costs for the town and Southwest Gas. In the interim, we would continue to provide safe, reliable natural gas service.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please contact the Southwest Gas Public Affairs Department at
GovernmentAffairs@swgas.com
Why Natural Gas Makes Sense
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It's AffordableNatural gas bills are typically amongst the lowest the average consumer pays each month.
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It's ReliableThe ideal companion for renewables like wind and solar, natural gas is available when the sun isn't shining and the wind doesn’t blow.
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It's CleanNatural gas maintains 91%1 of its efficiency when it arrives at the home from the source for cooking, space heating, water heating and clothes drying needs.
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It's PreferredHot showers, warm homes and amazing meals cooked over a natural gas flame are just a few of the reasons 92%2 of Arizonans want the choice of natural gas in their homes.
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