Business ProfileforDakota Electric Association

The electricity to my residence was cut off due to $230 in an unpaid electrical bill. I recently had to make a cell phone number change due to my former employer retaining my old phone number. When I received a new phone number, I made changes to all of my utility providers by updating the new phone number in their systems via their online portals. When I called Dakota Electric and asked why they cut off my service and didn't even bother to call me, I was informed that they do not get the updated information from their online portal. I was also told now that not only do I need to pay the small $230 unpaid bill but that they will also be tacking on not only a disconnect and reconnect service fee, but they are also requiring a $250 deposit that they will hold onto for a year. I asked what they are going to pay me for interest on my money they plan to withhold. I agreed they could hold onto it, but I would require a 6% APR, compounded monthly, on my money otheriwse I will leave my money in better investment portfolios. Their supervisor representative laughed and said they will not do so, then I asked why I would let them hold onto my money for? I have had Dakota Electric for 25 years and for them to cancel my electric over a $230 unpaid bill is hysterical but at the same time inconvenient. I have paid this company over $50K in the last 25 years and they cancel my service over a $230 bill? If they would have their online system communicating with their customer service team, this issue wouldn't have occurred. Now they want me to give them $500 to reconnect my power. I'm also worry about the power surges on my appliances and devices. I am hesitant to pay but I have not much choice since it is a monopoly on who will provide power in the *****************. I'm requesting my $250 either be immediately refunded to me or pay me the monthly interest fees at 6% for withholding my money.