Press Release

       Wyoming County Courthouse

       1 Courthouse Square

       Tunkhannock, Pa

       On July 3, 2007, Eaton Sewer & Water Company filed to increase wastewater rates by $68,641 (91 percent) and water rates by $71,113 (119 percent). Under the company’s proposal, the annual bill for an average residential customer using 60,000 gallons of water would increase about $415, from $486 to $901, for wastewater.  For water, it would increase by $330, from $294 to $624.  

       The increase would affect approximately 82 customers in Eaton Township, Wyoming County. 

       By operation of law, the proposed increase was suspended and assigned to a PUC administrative law judge for a recommended decision or settlement.  PUC Commissioners will make a final decision by Aug. 1, 2007 at a public meeting in Harrisburg.

       According to the company, the increase is needed to realize a reasonable rate of return on the company’s fixed capital investment and to recover increased operating costs.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the hearings and provide comments.  Customer testimony will become part of the record on which the PUC will base its decision in the case.

       The PUC and state Office of Consumer Advocate, which represents residential customers in rate cases, offer tips on how to participate.  They include:

·        Sign in to testify when you arrive.  The judge will call witnesses to speak from the order they have signed in.

·        Prepare what you are going to say beforehand.  Even though it’s not required, you may want to write out your statement, which can be read.

·        Bring copies.  If you have a written statement or have other papers you want to give the judge as evidence, please bring copies with you.  Bring an original, two copies for the court reporter and several copies for active participants in the case.

·        Your testimony will not become part of the record in the case unless you affirm that the testimony you are about to give is truthful.

·        Plan to be questioned.  Sometimes, parties in the case may want to ask you a question about something you said.  Listen to the whole question.  Answer as best you can.  It’s OK if you don’t know the answer.

       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 stewards of competition. For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. R-00061645; R-00061646