MAYOR GOODWIN AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL SEND LETTER TO PSC REQUESTING WATER AND GAS RATE INCREASES BE REJECTED OR DELAYED

(Charleston, W. Va.) – Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin and members of Charleston City Council sent a letter to the Public Service Commission – on behalf of, and concern for, the citizens of the West Side of Charleston who have been affected by the recent gas and water outages – requesting the proposed rate increases for Mountaineer Gas Company and West Virginia American Water be rejected. The letter goes on to request, if the rate increase is not rejected, the PSC delay implementation of the rate increases for West Side residents until April 1, 2024 or later.

“During a time when our families on the West Side are struggling, it is imperative we do everything we can to lessen the burden,” said Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin. “As utility rates continue to rise, it becomes more difficult for our families to make ends meet. We strongly urge the PSC to consider our request – especially as we approach winter and the holiday season.”

“Not only are our West Side families faced with the potential financial burden of increased water and gas rates, but they are also now going to be faced with higher electric bills due to the reliance on electric heaters during this gas outage,” said City Council Member Emmett Pepper. “It is critical our families be provided some relief during this difficult time so they may recover.”  

The letter further requests the PSC consider taking further action to empower residents to “better control their energy bills through increased energy efficiency programs for gas and electric customers.”