Bonacic: Orange and Rockland County Utilities' Rate Hike Proposal Ill-Conceived

 February 22, 2011 State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I – Mt. Hope), today described O&R’s proposed rate hike as outrageous. The proposed increase would raise customers’ electric delivery bills by 32.5 percent over the next three years. A public hearing was held in Goshen, NY on February 17, 2011, where customers and public officials alike expressed their strong opposition to this hike. 

“It is ridiculous to even propose inflating fees so drastically, in this economic climate,” said Senator John Bonacic. “ At a time when people are losing their jobs and trying to make ends meet, contributing to the burden with additional expenses should be out of the question. It is vital that O&R explore alternative options to this drastic hike.”  

Bonacic urged the State Public Service Commission to recognize the negative impact this type of increase would have on the community.  While it’s understood that the current economic situation is hurting businesses as well as consumers, it’s important that every alternative avenue be explored, the burden should not be placed on the already struggling consumers. O&R needs to continue to look for ways to cut costs rather than let their customers take a hit, they more than likely cannot bear.

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