Press Release

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to suspend and investigate Columbia Water Company’s request for a $466,376 (16.7 percent) rate increase.

Under the company’s proposal, the annual bill for an average residential customer using 48,000 gallons a year would increase approximately $41, from $307 to $348.  The rate increase would affect approximately 8,073 customers.  Formal complaints have been filed.

The proposed increase will be suspended for up to seven months from its June 28 proposed effective date and assigned to a PUC administrative law judge for a recommended decision or settlement.  The recommended decision will be sent to the Commissioners to make the final decision in a public meeting.

The last rate increase was in December 2001.  Columbia Water provides service in West Hempfield and Manor Townships, and the boroughs of Columbia and Mountville, all in Lancaster County.

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 internet homepage at www.puc.paonline.com.

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