Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Energy Policy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Somers board urges residents to comment as utilities seek large rate increases; Heritage Hills hearing Oct. 7 highlighted
Summary
At its Oct. 2 work session, the Somers Town Board discussed recent utility rate filings, expressed concern about repeated large percentage increases and restoration charges that raise bills $10–$20 monthly, and encouraged residents to attend a Heritage Hills public hearing Oct. 7 and to submit comments via the Public Service Commission website.
Somers Town Board members spent a significant portion of their Oct. 2 work session discussing proposed utility rate increases under review by the New York State Public Service Commission and urging residents to participate in the public process.
Board speakers criticized the location of many in-person PSC hearings — described in the meeting as about 100 miles from the Hudson Valley — and encouraged attendance at a local in-person hearing on Oct. 7 at the Heritage Hills activities center. Officials also noted virtual hearing options and pointed listeners to the PSC’s website (dps.ny.gov) for schedules and comment instructions.
Speakers described a pattern of utilities seeking large increases in repeated cycles, saying recent cycles have included increases in the 25%–30% range and that an overlaying recovery or restoration charge can add roughly $10–$20 a month to household bills depending on usage. Board members framed the issue as a balance between aging transmission infrastructure, the drive for cleaner energy, and affordability for consumers. They called for more local engagement so residents can weigh in on statewide planning and for regulators to consider hearings in the Hudson Valley.
The board also announced a public hearing on Oct. 9 concerning the extension of the Heritage Hills Special Water District (to be known as Regency Heritage Hills Water Extension) pursuant to Article 12-A of the Town Law, and a hearing on proposed zoning amendments related to solar energy systems. Board members said they will distribute dates and urged residents to comment through state channels and attend the Oct. 7 Heritage Hills meeting where local concerns about the utility filings can be raised.
The session included an appeal to residents to participate: meeting presenters emphasized that public turnout can influence the commission’s deliberations and that written comments are available for those who cannot attend in person.
