To the editor:

I am probably only one of many thousands who are frustrated with the increase in our Lee County Electric Coop invoices over the past few months. The information and excuse coming from the co-op is that they are just passing the energy charges onto their customers. I have to question and request local authority look into this drastic increase in rates and why we as customers are being subjected to fees that have “doubled” over the past few months.

Many of our local population cannot afford to meet these continuous increases. What do they do at this point… cut off their service? Pass the charges on to those who can pay?

LCEC claims to be only passing the cost of their service along to their customers, but I say, let them prove it and be totally open on these charges and increases.

It is one thing to expect a fair return to cover cost, but quite another, to gouge the customer for additional charges.

I say let them be above board and transparent. We cannot continue to pay these exorbitant rates as what LCEC is currently charging the local populous.

Instead of sending out “feel good” letters justifying their charges, with their billing statements each month, let them document the reality of their increases in our rates.

It is only fair and right for their customers.

Thomas Gunderman

Cape Coral