LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) - The Lincoln City Council unanimously approved Lincoln Electric System’s 2026 budget proposal Monday, which includes a 3% systemwide rate increase for customers.

The vote was the final step needed for LES to implement its new rates, which take effect Jan. 1, 2026.

The LES Administrative Board’s Finance Committee shared the 2026 budget proposal Sept. 19 and approved it at its Oct. 17 meeting, advancing it to the Lincoln City Council for final review and approval.

Emily Koenig, LES chief financial officer and vice president of financial services, said the adjustment is due to rising power costs and transmission expenses beyond the company’s control.

She said that previous rate increases, which included a midyear increase this past summer , were in preparation of

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