The Missouri Public Service Commission has scheduled public hearings to gather customer comments regarding a proposed rate increase by the Missouri-American Water Company. The utility company is seeking a net increase in annual base rate revenues of approximately $191.9 million for its water and sewer services provided across the state. These public forums offer residents an opportunity to express their views and ask questions directly to the Commission regarding the potential changes to their utility bills.
Missouri-American Water Company submitted tariff sheets outlining its request to the Commission on July 1. The proposed increase, if approved, would affect customers utilizing water and sewer services from the company throughout Missouri. The Public Service Commission, which is tasked with regulating investor-owned utilities in the state, will consider public input as part of its thorough review process for the rate adjustment. The Commission's role includes ensuring that any rate increases are just and reasonable, balancing the needs of the utility to maintain infrastructure and provide services with the impact on customers.
A total of seven public hearings have been announced by the Missouri Public Service Commission. This schedule includes five in-person hearings, the specific locations and times of which were not detailed in the recent announcement, and two virtual public hearings. The virtual sessions are designed to accommodate a broader range of participants and allow customers from various parts of the state to engage in the process without requiring physical travel. These virtual meetings will be conducted via Webex’s website, ensuring accessibility for those with internet access.
Both virtual hearings are slated for the same day, December 17. The first virtual session will commence at noon. Participants wishing to join this meeting will need to use the meeting number and access code 2631 278 7030. The password required for entry to this virtual session is 0304. Later the same day, a second virtual public hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. For this evening session, customers will use the meeting number and access code 2865 616 2337, with the same password, 0304, providing access. These specific access details were provided by the Commission to facilitate public participation.
The Public Service Commission emphasizes that these hearings are a crucial part of the regulatory process, allowing the voices of customers to be heard directly. The information gathered during these sessions will become part of the public record that the Commission reviews before making a final determination on Missouri-American Water Company's request for increased annual base rate revenues. While the precise impact on individual customer bills will vary based on usage and service type, the overall proposed increase of approximately $191.9 million represents a substantial adjustment to the company's operational revenue base. The process underscores the state’s regulatory framework for ensuring transparency and public involvement in utility rate-setting.
