Early voting wrapped up for Tuesday’s referendum on the control of Gainesville Regional Utilities. Although 33% of GRU customers are outside of the city, the first challenge to the legality of the referendum was overturned by a court. Regardless of whether the referendum is allowed, maintaining the utility in the state board’s hands keeps rates lower for metro area customers. Why a ‘no’ vote prevents a continuation of high rates to fund Gainesville handouts.