Press Release

PUC Conducts Binding Poll on Columbia Water Co.’s Rate Increase

Published on 5/28/2009

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today conducted a binding poll on the issues related to Columbia Water Co.’s proposed rate increase for water service.

The poll is designed to provide a mechanism for the Commission to discuss the contested issues of the case in a public forum.  Commissioners base their findings on the record developed in the proceeding, testimony from the parties in the case, the recommended decision from the presiding Administrative Law Judge and the briefs and exceptions presented by the parties in the case.  Staff will craft an Order based on the results of the poll, and a Final Order will then be entered.

The company’s proposal, filed on July 15, 2008, would have increased rates by $616,402 (16.5 percent).  The Administrative Law Judge recommended an increase of 7.44 percent.  At this time, the increase granted by the Commission is estimated to be approximately 10 percent.  This change in rates is expected to take effect in June 2009.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket Nos. R-2008-2045157; C-2008-2061322; C-2008-2059905; C-2061399; C-2008-2071021

Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov