Press Release

PUC to Hold Public Input Hearing on Rate Increase Request by Berks County Sewer Co.

Published on 3/1/2013

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is holding a hearing to receive public comment on the proposed rate increase for North Heidelberg Sewer Co., Berks County.

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Joel H. Cheskis will conduct the hearing at:

6 p.m., Thursday, March 14, 2013

Christ Little Tulpehocken Church

40 Church Road

Bernville, PA 19506

On Dec. 20, 2012, the Commission voted to investigate the company’s request, which proposes an annual increase of revenues of $106,139 (77.6 percent).  Under the company’s proposal, the total annual bill for a typical residential customer using 49,728 gallons of water a year would increase $412.08 from about $519 to $931 (79.3 percent).  North Heidelberg Sewer provides wastewater service to approximately 254 customers in Berks County.

More information on the ratemaking process is available on the Commission’s website.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the hearing and provide comments.  Customer testimony will become part of the record on which the PUC will issue its final decision. The PUC and state Office of Consumer Advocate offer tips on how to participate.  They include:

• Prepare what you are going to say beforehand.  Even though it is not required, you may want to write out your statement, which can be read.
• Bring copies if you are attending an in-person hearing.  If you have a written statement you would like to give to the judge as evidence, please bring two copies for the court reporter and several copies for the other participants.
• Plan to be questioned.  Parties in the case may want to ask you a question to clarify something you said.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website www.puc.pa.gov.

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            Docket No.  R-2012-2330877

Contact:

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