Press Release

    HARRISBURG, Pa. - The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has approved a settlement that will permit the Glenburn Services Co. in Lackawanna County to increase rates by $35,550 annually. The company had originally asked for a $37,920 increase in a July 1, 1998, filing.

    The increase will be implemented in two phases for a total increase of $258. In the first phase, effective on one day’s notice, average residential bills will increase $162 annually, from $240 to $402. The second phase, which will become effective six months later, will increase bills an additional $96 annually, to $498. Rates were last raised in 1982.

    Glenburn also agrees not to file for another rate increase before January 1, 2000 and to change its name from Glenburn Services Company to Frank A. Colombo Jr. t/a Glenburn Services Company. Parties to the settlement, approved at the PUC's March 31 public meeting, include the company, the PUC’s Office of Trial Staff and the state Office of Consumer Advocate. PUC Administrative Law Judge Ky Van Nguyen recommended its approval.

    The Office of Consumer Advocate and two individual customers filed formal complaints against the increase. On September 17, 1998, the PUC suspended the company’s filing for investigation. Judge Nguyen held a public input hearing in Glenburn Township on November 17, 1998.

    Glenburn provides wastewater service to 79 customers in Glenburn Township.

    For recent press releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our Internet home page: http://puc.paonline.com.

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