Waukee Voters Approve Sale of City Gas Utility to MidAmerican Energy

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In a major shift for local infrastructure, Waukee voters approved the sale of the city’s natural gas utility system to MidAmerican Energy with more than 85% support during a special election in March 2025. The vote finalized Waukee’s plan to transfer a utility it has owned for over 80 years to one of Iowa’s largest energy providers.

City officials said the move was prompted by growing operational demands and regulatory complexities that were becoming increasingly difficult for the city to manage. With rapid population growth and aging infrastructure, partnering with a regional energy company promised more stability, investment, and long-term scalability.

Waukee’s municipal gas utility serves roughly 8,000 customers. The transition is expected to be completed by mid-2025, during which time the city will continue managing operations while MidAmerican prepares to take over.

“This is a long-term infrastructure decision that impacts reliability, safety, and cost,” said City Administrator Brad Deets after the results. “We’re confident that MidAmerican has the scale and resources to meet the city’s needs moving forward.”

How MidAmerican Energy was selected and why it mattered

MidAmerican was selected by the Waukee City Council in February 2025 following a competitive review process. The company’s track record, financial stability, and ability to serve growing communities were central to the decision.

According to officials, the city evaluated multiple bids and prioritized system compatibility, rate predictability, and customer service. MidAmerican already provides electric and natural gas services across Iowa, including in neighboring communities, which added to its appeal.

City leaders stressed that the sale wasn’t just about cost-cutting. It was about ensuring residents would receive reliable service through a modernized system with stronger technical and safety support.

What Waukee residents can expect post-transition

Once the sale is complete, MidAmerican will assume full responsibility for gas distribution, billing, and service requests. Customers will begin receiving bills from MidAmerican and gain access to digital tools and support services the municipal system didn’t offer.

Rates will follow MidAmerican’s existing statewide structure, meaning no major pricing changes are expected. As a regulated utility, its pricing remains subject to oversight by the Iowa Utilities Board. Emergency response, gas leak services, and infrastructure maintenance will shift to MidAmerican’s regional teams.

Supporters argue that larger energy companies can offer better technology, improved safety, and faster upgrades. Critics worry about loss of local control and the risk of future rate increases.

Sources:

Des Moines Register