Press Release

HARRISBURG, Pa. - The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a proposal that will allow Geigertown Water Company to increase rates by $15,734 (50 percent), affecting approximately 87 customers in Robeson and Union townships.

Under the company’s proposal, an average residential bill would increase approximately $173 a year from $346 to $519 based on 46,900 gallons of water used. The increase would enable the company to recover increased operating expenses and make payments on its liabilities.

The company filed its rate request on April 5, 2000, and is permitted to put it into effect on one-day notice.

A Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) report shows there were several major requirement placed on Geigertown Water. The first was a boil water advisory issued in September 1999 and remains in effect to date. DEP also required the utility to submit a feasibility study for drilling a replacement well for the existing springs. DEP approved that plan. As a result, the company has until October 2003 to provide filtration of the existing springs or drill a well as a new water source.

In December 1997 the company was ordered to withdraw a rate increase filing.

The PUC directed the company to correct and upgrade its system. Geigertown complied and received a certificate of compliance from the PUC in March 1998.

Geigertown Water Company serves 86 residential customers and one commercial customer in Robeson and Union townships, Berks County.

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

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