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Bel Air commissioners plan to monitor PSC hearing on Maryland American Water rate filing
Summary
Commissioners discussed opposing parts of a proposed Maryland American Water rate filing, expressed concern about a tiered-rate structure and automatic surcharge mechanisms, and asked staff to track Public Service Commission assignments and attend the hearing to present the town's concerns if needed.
Commissioners discussed Maryland American Water's proposed rate changes and a planned Public Service Commission hearing at which the town may wish to be heard. Concerns centered on a proposed tiered rate structure and the possibility of additional line-item fees or surcharges to recover infrastructure costs. A board member said she had consulted with a former Public Service Commission attorney who recommended presenting real-life ratepayer examples at the hearing.
Staff said the hearing date had not been set but was expected in November or December; commissioners asked staff to monitor PSC assignments and provide notice so the town can develop a position and, if necessary, attend the hearing. Commissioners also discussed how some proposed charges might be added to customers' bills without a public hearing, and they asked staff to identify who would represent ratepayer interests before the commission.
