The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission has ruled on the rate hike requested by PA American Water last year.
By a 4 to 1 vote, the Commission approved a motion to reduce the proposed increase to water and wastewater service by over 50% as well as enhance customer service and protections.
PA American Water requested the change last November of an increase of approximately $13/month increase for water service and $25/month increase for customers in the Butler wastewater system.
The revised approved rate change still provides PA American Water with a revenue increase of nearly $75 million per year which is about 5% of total revenue for water operations along with about 15% for wastewater operations. Officials say the rate increase is needed to pay for over a billion dollars in infrastructure upgrades across the state.
The new rates will be effective for service rendered on or after August 13th.