Tim Ryan, tryan@wolfrivermedia.com
A date has been set for a public hearing via telephone on Shawano Sewer and Water Utility’s request for an increase in sewer rates.
The utility filed the application with the state Public Service Commission earlier this year.
According to city officials, the increase is necessary due to a 54 percent increase in utility infrastructure expenses and a 20 percent increase in operating expenses since the last full sewer rate case was completed in 2008.
The city has requested an overall increase in annual revenue of $219,140, or an increase of 12 percent over present revenue, though that percentage will vary depending on the type of customer.
According to City Administrator Brian Knapp, the current average sewer charge, based on the city average of 500 cubic feet of water used per month, is $30.37.
A 12 percent increase, if approved by the PSC, will raise the monthly sewer charge by $3.64 to $34.01.
However, Knapp noted, that will vary depending on classes of customers, which are broken into residential, commercial and industrial.
The PSC will determine the actual level of the revenue requirement after reviewing the application and holding the hearing.
If the commission authorizes an increase, it will also authorize the ultimate rates individual classes of customers pay.
The hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. Sept. 16 in the River Room at Shawano City Hall, 125 S.Sawyer St.
Information regarding the application is also available on the PSCs website, http://psc.wi.gov.
Further questions can be addressed to Eddie Sheppard at 715-526-3512 during office hours, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Scheduling questions regarding the hearing may be directed to the Public Service Commission at 608-266-3768.