Press Release

PUC Approves Lower Rate Increase than Sought by Marietta Gravity Water Company

Published on 3/2/2006

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a settlement of a rate increase request by Marietta Water Company that increases consumer rates, but not to the level the company originally requested.

Under the settlement, the annual bill for an average customer using 48,000 gallons of water would increase by approximately $59 (12 percent) from $432 to $491. The company’s original proposal raised the average annual bill by about $79 (15 percent) to $510.

The Commission approved the settlement by a vote of 4-0 with Vice Chairman James Cawley recusing. As part of the settlement, Marietta cannot apply for another rate increase for at least 18 months. The increase affects 1,042 customers in Marietta Borough, portions of West Hempfield and East Donegal Townships in Lancaster County, and a portion of Hellam Township, York County.

The settlement also calls for the company to conduct pressure and flow test on 12 fire hydrants located throughout Marietta Borough within six months and share the results of the tests with the borough and Pioneer Fire Company No. 1. The company must also review the color coding of the hydrants to ensure the color reflects the size of the water line serving the hydrants.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as responsible stewards of competition. For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our internet homepage www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No:      R-00050814

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