The City of Woodstock says it has begun talking to Hydro One about potentially selling Woodstock Hydro.

“Given ongoing changes in the Ontario electricity sector, we believe the best interests of our taxpayers and ratepayers are served by exploring this option at this time,” Woodstock Mayor Patrick Sobeski said in a press release.

Sobeski said in the release that the city’s priorities in the sale are protecting Woodstock Hydro employees, providing rate stability and quality service and fostering long-term investment in Woodstock.

Any decision to sell Woodstock Hydro would rest with city councillors, who have yet to vote on the issue.

The city expects that negotiations will be complete by spring 2014.

Last year, the province recommended consolidation of local electricity distributors.

Norfolk County sold its hydro distributor to Hydro One earlier this year, while Brant County is seeking to sell its own power company.