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Public hearings are scheduled to discuss Central Hudson Gas and Electric's proposed rate increase. The company has requested permission from the Public Service Commission to raise the average electric bill by $9.10 and the gas bill by $8.74. These hearings are an opportunity for the public to voice their opinions on the proposed changes.
The first two hearings will take place on Tuesday, April 29, at the Ulster County Restorative Justice and Empowerment Center and Catskill Town Hall. The third hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30, at Poughkeepsie Town Hall. According to the Daily Freeman, the hearings will remain open for at least thirty minutes or until everyone wishing to speak has been heard.
Central Hudson's proposal includes increasing electric delivery revenues by approximately $47 million and gas delivery revenues by around $15 million. The company cites the need to replace aging infrastructure, cover labor costs, and address cybersecurity threats as reasons for the rate hike. The proposed increases represent a 5.3% rise in electric bills and a 5.9% rise in gas bills for average residential customers after mitigation.
Individuals with disabilities or those needing special accommodations are encouraged to contact the Department of Public Service’s Human Resources Management Office. Free language assistance services are also available for those who require them.