Residents of Gilbert might soon need to dig deeper into their pockets to juice up their electric cars. The town is mulling over a new set of fees for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at its facilities and parking garages, as outlined in a recent announcement. If the Gilbert Town Council gives the green light after a public hearing and vote scheduled for June 18, EV drivers could start seeing charges as early as August 1, 2024.

The proposed fees, which were recommended by Walker Consultants after an exhaustive rate study, are set to include a per-kWh charge that increases after the first four hours and an idle fee for hogging a spot without charging. According to the town's statement, a $175 fine is also on the cards for non-electric vehicles, or those not plugged in, that are parked in EV-designated spots.

At the moment, Gilbert offers free juice at electric vehicle charging stations located at the Hearne Way Parking Garage and the Town's Public Safety Training Facility. However, these and other town-owned stations, including new smart chargers at the Town Hall employee lot, are subject to the proposed fees. The changes come as part of Gilbert's plan to upgrade existing charging stations to smart chargers, an upgrade slated for October.

All eyes are now on the upcoming public hearing, providing a forum for residents and EV enthusiasts to voice their opinions before the Town Council makes a final decision. Details for participating in the council meetings are available on the town's website for anyone interested in the discourse. Gilbert ensures its legislative process is transparent with meetings that are open to the public and live-streamed for broader access.