Gas rates for the city of Hazard were set Monday night when the first reading of the gas ordinance was heard during the City Commission meeting.

The city shopped around until it found the lowest possible rate - $11.94 per MCF - which is $3.54 higher than last year, but $0.82 lower than expected. The first reading of the ordinance sets the rate while the second reading - which will be heard and signed by Mayor Bill Gorman during the next City Commission meeting - locks in the rate.

"We're not pleased with this rate," City Commissioner Paul Feltner said. "That's why we're searching for ways to lower it."

Feltner also said the city is continuing to explore other gas companies, hearing engineering plans and searching for any ways to lower the gas rate for its citizens.

The city was awarded $141,524 in TEA-21 funding for renaissance improvements to downtown Hazard, according to an announcement during the meeting.

Hazard City Patrolman James East also received praise during the meeting for completing with honors requirements advancing him to Class A Patrolman.

Hazard City Police Chief Ronnie Bryant and Hazard City Fire Department Chief Joe Turner each read reports during the meeting.