Press Release
PUC Approves $1 Million Settlement in Case Involving Fatal Propane Explosion in Northampton County
Published on 8/11/2016
Filed under: Gas
HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a $1 million settlement with Continental Communities, LLC, of Oak Brook, IL (Continental Communities), and Hickory Hills Mobile Home Park, LLC, of Bath, PA (Hickory Hills). The settlement addresses a propane gas explosion in February 2014 which claimed the life of one resident and destroyed or damaged several homes in the Northampton County community.
The Commission voted 5-0 today to approve the settlement, which resolves a complaint filed by the PUC’s Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement (I&E), the independent investigative and prosecutorial arm of the Commission. The I&E complaint alleged 39 violations of state and federal regulations governing pipeline operators by Continental Communities and Hickory Hills, who owned, operated and managed the residential community where the explosion occurred.
In addition to the $1 million civil penalty, the settlement notes that the propane distribution system in the Hickory Hill community was disconnected and removed shortly after the explosion and all residents have been switched to bottled propane gas.
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.
For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility. “Like” Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission on Facebook for easy access to information on utility issues.
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Docket No.: C-2015-2468131
Contact:
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Nils Hagen-Frederiksen
Press Secretary
717-418-2701
nhagen-fre@pa.gov
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