Lighthouse Lounge Hit with Skyrocketing Repair Costs and Rising UniSource Bills After Grand Opening

Just months after its launch, the Lighthouse Lounge is grappling with unprecedented repair costs. Owner Mack Patterson reported that a power surge shortly after their January opening resulted in significant equipment damage. He vividly recalls hearing an alarming boom as major losses unfolded, affecting both a rooftop unit and cooler.

Co-owner Justin Bechen confirmed that the incident also blew rooftop compressors and exterior fuses. “I called the power company and they said, ‘Well, that happens,’” Patterson recounted, highlighting the lack of accountability from the utility provider.

To complicate matters, the lounge has faced unexpected increases in utility costs from UniSource. Joleen Patterson, also an owner, noted they hadn’t factored in these higher electricity bills when budgeting for the new business. Bechen explained that the lounge’s utility rates shifted due to increased usage, as the previous tenants had a significantly smaller consumption bracket.

“We actually got bumped up into a different pay bracket,” he remarked, emphasizing the impact of rising temperatures and utility rates on operational costs. Since February, the establishment’s electricity bills have soared to troubling heights, doubling during the summer months. A recent bill indicated a staggering $2,854.53 for July-August usage, following a charge of $2,316.65 for the previous month.

Bechen estimated daily cooling expenses at about $100 for the front room alone. He clarified that they chose not to pass these costs onto customers, citing concerns over affordability amidst widespread inflation. “We don’t want to price people out,” he stated, stressing empathy for patrons managing similar financial strains.

In response to rising costs, the lounge has implemented several energy-saving measures, including installing LED lighting and setting thermostats to 84 degrees overnight. To further contain expenses, management members are working extended hours.

Despite these challenges, Lighthouse Lounge remains committed to providing a welcoming atmosphere for live music, avoiding cover charges for patrons. Bechen expressed relief as the weather begins to cool, suggesting an increase in customer turnout. “I think we made it through the rough patch,” he concluded, reflecting on the resilience of their first year amidst daunting summer conditions and rising operational bills.