Pennsylvania Blocks Manchester City’s 30% Water Rate Hike Amid Public Outcry
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission has halted a significant water rate increase proposed by Manchester City. The move follows a unanimous vote to investigate the planned hike, which would have been the first since 2021. Details about public hearings to gather consumer and stakeholder input are yet to be announced.
Manchester City, serving 120,000 people through 49,000 connections in the city and surrounding areas, sought a $7,005,217 annual increase, or 30.9%. This would have raised the total bill for residential customers by 29.8%, while commercial and industrial customers would see increases of 27.2% and 24.8% respectively.
The primary goal of the rate increase is to recoup capital investments in Manchester City's water facilities. However, the commission has suspended the increase and will investigate, including holding public input hearings to collect comments from consumers and stakeholders.
The investigation will help determine the necessity and fairness of the proposed water rate increase. In the meantime, customers can contact Manchester City's customer service office at 717-735-3425 for more information about the proposed increase. The commission's decision to suspend the increase and gather public input ensures a thorough review of the planned changes.
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