For over 21 years, I’ve maintained a lease with Ferrell Gas at a summer cabin that is visited by the family only 2-3 times per year. When we purchased the place in 2004, I continued the service at the recommendation of the previous owner. No issues whatsoever. I paid the yearly lease fee that varied erratically from as low as $27 or so to over $75 a year, the latter rate being more consistent since about 2011. Somebody must have updated the books to find how reasonable my rate was under the circumstances! Understandable. Regardless, I didn’t care. It was nominal. No problem. The tank was rarely filled with many years between fills. The frequency and duration of our visits to the cabin dictated that. Never had any issues with the tank itself. At no time was I ever informed that this steady relationship would become an issue. Until now. Suddenly, I’ve been informed that the yearly lease fee will increase by 100% to $150.00 a year due to my “minimal use,” apparently a designation by Ferrell Gas if one falls below at least two fills per year. Definitely news to me! Why the sudden change after over 20 years? I contacted Ferrell Gas immediately to explain the longstanding nature of the account that heretofore was not a problem. I spoke with an exceptionally pleasant and helpful representative, Debra H. She was great! Unfortunately, the ‘manager’ she engaged on the matter could offer only a temporary continuation of the $75 per year lease fee for this year that would double as originally intended in years thereafter unless my use increased. Wow! That’s just not possible for my family. Was there the possibility for a reasonable compromise for such a loyal and longstanding account? No. Sad.Instead, I’m left with no alternative but to try to use the remaining propane in the tank this year before the end of the final lease period when the tank will be removed. To add insult to injury, I won’t be reimbursed for any remaining propane left in the tank either. So, sadly, a long-term relationship ends. A relationship in which at least a small but consistent revenue stream was coming to Ferrell Gas. Soon there will be none. Does that make business sense? Isn’t something preferable to nothing? Obviously not. Of course I’m sure there is some ‘corporate’ rationale, but from a simple customer perspective, it’s perplexing. Well, on to another provider. Thank goodness for the free enterprise system we enjoy as Americans. Goodbye Ferrell Gas. It was just fine while it lasted. For the record, you left me.
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