The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has announced public hearings to discuss the proposed rate increases by Pennsylvania American Water Company (PAWC). These hearings will provide an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions on the potential cost hikes. Two of these hearings are scheduled to take place at the Dunn Community Center in Reading on January 20, 2026, at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.
The proposed rate increase would affect approximately 682,000 water customers and 97,000 wastewater customers across 37 counties in Pennsylvania. If approved, the average residential water and wastewater customer could see their monthly bill rise by about $24. PAWC justifies the increase by citing the need to support $1.2 billion in infrastructure improvements through mid-2027, aimed at modernizing and strengthening its water and wastewater systems.
The PUC has already suspended the rate hike request for up to seven months to gather public input and make a decision by August 13, 2026. PUC Administrative Law Judges Jeffrey A. Watson and Emily DeVoe will preside over the hearings. In addition to the in-person hearings, two telephonic hearings are scheduled for January 21, 2026, at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Residents are encouraged to preregister for the telephonic hearings by emailing Sumathi Jayakumar Raj at sumjayakum@pa.gov or calling 717-787-4972.
According to The Shenandoah Sentinel, those unable to attend the hearings can file formal complaints or comments on the PUC's website. The PUC's investigation may lead to adjustments in the proposed rate increases, as seen in previous cases where requested hikes were reduced.