County told by NPPD of large meter-reading discrepancy; commissioners to seek legal advice

County officials told commissioners that Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) recently discovered a multi-leg meter reading issue at the courthouse and submitted a retroactive correction covering roughly the previous year. County staff said the discrepancy produced a difference of about $696,977.60 between what was billed and what NPPD said the meter readings should have been going back to July 2024. Staff said the meter physically continued supplying power and that the variance stems from one of the three meter legs not registering correctly, not from a change in electric service. Commissioners said the county should get a legal opinion about the amount and the timeframe for any repayment and should consult the utility about the discovery and any billing adjustments. The county's legal liaison Rory (or county legal counsel) was mentioned as the next contact to review the claim and any statute of limitations or notice rules. Why it matters: A near-$700,000 retroactive adjustment would have major implications for county budgets and cash flow; the board asked staff to review legal options and contract/utility rules before agreeing to any payment plan.