(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The City Council approved a 2.4% natural gas rate increase on Tuesday, March 25. On Tuesday, the Colorado Springs City Council voted unanimously to approve a 2.4% natural gas rate increase after Colorado Springs Utilities (Springs Utilities) introduced the increased rates earlier in March. The new rates will add $6.50 to the average monthly residential bill. However, individual customer bill impacts vary depending on weather, household use, and home efficiency. To manage natural gas bills, Springs Utilities recommends these steps: Weather strip doors and windows to reduce the amount of air loss from your home Change your furnace filler every 30 days and schedule regular service During winter, set thermostats no higher than 68 degrees when home and 60 degrees when away or sleeping. Different assistance is available to help customers manage their bills, such as budget billing and payment assistance through Project COPE year-round. The new rates will be effective Tuesday, April 1. ...read more read less