PUCO hearing draws packed house at Youngstown council chambers

YOUNGSTOWN — The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio’s scheduling of an afternoon public hearing today did not keep an estimated 200 area residents from attending at City Hall.

The hearing was scheduled in response to Dominion East Ohio’s proposal to move from a usage-based fee to a flat fee of $17.50 per month per bill for the distribution of natural gas, regardless of consumers’ consumption.

Despite the crowded surroundings in the city council chambers, dozens of concerned consumers testified about how the rate change will affect their personal finances.

Among their concerns were the difficulties they already face regarding paying utility bills, in conjunction with increases in other expenses, including gasoline, groceries and inflation in general. Some residents also felt that the rate increase, which would result in low-usage consumers subsidizing high-usage consumers, would not encourage energy conservation.

“What we have been faced with is a runaway cost system,” Austintown resident Charles Vandenberg said, referring to Dominion’s proposal.

For the complete story, see Tuesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com.