Press Release

PUC Approves Rate Settlement with Buck Hill Water Company in Monroe County

Published on 3/3/2005

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a settlement that will allow Buck Hill Water Company in Monroe County to increase water rates by $53,500 (35 percent).  The company had originally asked for a $153,495 (62.7 percent) rate increase.

Under the settlement, effective on one day’s notice, the average annual bill for a residential customer using 17,056 gallons of water a year will increase by approximately $134, from $609 to $743.

The rate increase will affect approximately 274 residential and 15 commercial customers in the Village of Buck Hill Falls, in Barrett Township, Monroe County. 

In August 2004, the Commission voted to investigate the company’s request. A settlement agreement was reached on Dec. 20 between the company, the PUC’s Office of Trial Staff and the state Office of Consumer Advocate. On Jan. 10, PUC Administrative Law Judge Larry Gesoff recommended approving the settlement.

As part of the settlement, the company agreed not to file for another general rate increase for at least one year. When it does file for another increase, the company will first sponsor a public question and answer session for its customers.

The company will also investigate the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of eliminating or significantly reducing the need for winter bleeding, a procedure in which water is trickled through a line to prevent freezing. As part of its investigation, Buck Hill will explore several scenarios, including insulating existing mains; replacing existing pipes with ones installed below frost level; replacing metal pipes with plastic ones that are less likely to burst in freezing weather; and recycling captured bleeding water back into the system.  

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.state.pa.us.

# # #

Docket No.  R-00049493

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  Office of Communications
  717-787-5722