ORS 758.320: Application of ORS 758.300 to 758.320 to cities; effect on certain voluntary associations; existing franchise; exception.

(1) The provisions of ORS 758.300 to 758.320 shall not be construed to restrict the powers granted to cities to issue franchises or to restrict the powers of condemnation of a municipality. (2) The provisions of ORS 758.300 to 758.320 shall not be construed to restrict the formation of homeowners associations pursuant to ORS chapter 94, cooperatives pursuant to ORS chapter 62 or districts pursuant to ORS chapter 198 within the designated exclusive service territory of a water utility. A homeowners association, cooperative or district may petition the Public Utility Commission for an order excluding the association, cooperative or district from the exclusive service territory of a water utility. Upon a showing by the association, cooperative or district that exclusion is not detrimental to the public interest, the commission may issue an order excluding the association, cooperative or district from the exclusive service territory of a water utility. (3) The commission shall recognize the service territories of a water utility that has an existing franchise on October 23, 1999, with a municipality as exclusive service territories. Upon application as provided in ORS 758.302, any such water utility may request an order from the commission to designate exclusive service territories in addition to those identified in the franchise agreement if the water utility is providing adequate and exclusive service to areas outside the areas identified in the franchise agreement. (4) A district, as defined in ORS 198.010, that provides water utility service shall be exempt from the requirements of ORS 758.302. However, upon request of the commission, the district shall provide to the commission a map of its service territory and shall in all other respects comply with the requirements of ORS 758.300 to 758.320. [1999 c.695 §8; 2003 c.202 §6] ELECTRIC AND GAS UTILITIES; ALLOCATION OF TERRITORIES AND CUSTOMERS