PUC to hold local hearings on proposed Aqua rate hikes at Ciresi’s request

Southeast Delegation    July 23, 2024 | 3:05 PM

HARRISBURG, July 18 – At state Rep. Joe Ciresi’s request, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission has agreed to hold two hearings in Limerick Township on the proposed $126.7 million rate hike for Aqua Pennsylvania Inc and Aqua Pennsylvania Wastewater Inc. on Monday, Aug. 12 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Spring-Ford Area High School (Auditorium), 350 S. Lewis Road, Royersford 19468.

Aqua Water proposes to increase its annual operating revenues for water services by approximately $112 million (18.7%).  Aqua Wastewater seeks a corresponding increase in its annual operating revenues for wastewater services by $14.6 million (20.1%).  In total, the proposed rate increase requests would increase the company’s total annual operating revenues by approximately $126.7 million.

“The time is now to act and have our voices heard about how these proposed skyrocketing rate hikes will have a devastating impact on our monthly household budgets, particularly on our seniors who live on a fixed income,” Ciresi said. “I am grateful that the PUC has scheduled two hearings in Limerick Township, where wastewater rates already doubled just a few years ago, so as many of our residents as possible can share how these outrageous rate increases will affect their quality of life.”

Although Aqua made the request to the PUC saying the rate increase was necessary to pay for infrastructure investments, Ciresi pointed out that customers’ bills already include distribution system improvement charges reserved for infrastructure updates.

“I want to see in writing where our money is really going to go,” Ciresi said. “Is it for needed infrastructure improvements or to fatten executive salaries? That will not happen on my watch without a fight.”

Those who are unable to attend the Aug. 12 hearings can participate in two telephonic hearings held at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 14 by pre-registering via email to PUC Judge’s Legal Assistant, Christina M. Biggica, at cbiggica@pa.gov, or by calling the judge’s office at 717-787-1191 and providing the following information:

  • Your first and last name.
  • The phone number you will be using to call into the public input hearing.
  • A phone number where you can be reached prior to the hearing if we need to contact you.
  • Your email address, if you have one.

Interested residents are encouraged to visit the PUC’s website at puc.pa.gov for tips on offering testimony at public input hearings, along with how to handle any exhibits people wish to submit during testimony. People with questions may contact Representative Ciresi’s office by calling (484) 200-8265 or by emailing repciresi@pahouse.net with “Aqua rate increase hearing” in the subject line.