.7 million in benefit costs . the increase was partially offset by the absence of the voluntary severance program accruals of $ 7.1 million that occurred in 2003 . taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to a higher assessment of ad valorem and franchise taxes compared to the same period in 2003 . 2003 compared to 2002 other operation and maintenance expenses increased primarily due to : 2022 voluntary severance program accruals of $ 7.1 million ; and 2022 an increase of $ 4