Press Release

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a settlement that will allow CS Water and Sewer Associates in Pike County to increase its water rates by $27,914 (10.4 percent) and its wastewater rates by $22,794 (8.6 percent).

The company had requested an $85,613 (88 percent) increase in water rates and a $68,746 (71 percent) increase in wastewater rates.

Under the settlement, the annual water bill for an average residential customer will increase by approximately $32, from $221 to $253.  The annual cost of wastewater service to a residential customer will increase $26 from $221 to $247. 

The rate increase will affect approximately 845 residential customers, six commercial and 1,075 availability customers.    There were 120 complaints filed against the rate increase.

In October 2002, the Commission voted to investigate the company’s request.  Administrative Law Judge Cynthia Williams Fordham held public input hearings in Lackawaxen, Pike County on Jan. 30, 2003, to receive public comments on the proposed rate increase.  Thirteen people testified at the hearing.  On June 17, 2003, Judge Fordham recommended the settlement be approved.

The proposed increase will become effective on one day’s notice after the Commission’s order is officially entered. The company cannot file another general rate increase before June 1, 2005.

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 responsible stewards of competition. 

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