PUEBLO, Colo. (KKTV) – Black Hills Energy customers in Pueblo had the chance to voice their opinions about the company’s proposed rate changes Tuesday and Wednesday.
Black Hills Energy is proposing an 18% increase. However, no decisions have been made yet on what Black Hills’ customer rates will be. This decision is up to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC).
Part of PUC‘s decision-making process involves hosting town halls so they can hear the public’s feedback.
On both Tuesday and Wednesday from 5:00-8:00 P.M. at Memorial Hall Black Hills Energy customers had a chance to express their concerns about how much they’re paying for their utilities.
Communications Director for PUC Megan Castle tells 11 News, this is vital for them choosing what customers’ rates will be saying, “The PUC is really excited to see the citizens of Pueblo and anybody who is an impacted rate payer to come tonight.”
Castle continues stating, “Last night we were able to hear some incredible comments from folks from Pueblo they talked about what rate increases mean, potentially to their family to their businesses, and to the city and understanding that provides a human face a real story and an impact that makes a difference on families and we need to know at the PUC what this is. It’s very powerful to have that and we are super grateful for all those folks who are able to come out and shared and we look forward to hearing more.”
Castle also tells 11 News what she learned from these customers’ testimonials saying, “Several commenters provided very personal stories about reasons that they selected Pueblo to move here as a great community to start and raise their family. Others talked about how it would impact potentially their businesses and costs that would potentially impact how they do business moving forward. People talked about the community at large, and they wanted to make sure that Pueblo was a place that they could raise a family and have a business and have a strong community and there was a lot of community pride that we heard.”
Black Hills Energy also provided a statement which reads, “We recognize that right now, many families and businesses are voicing their concerns about the proposed rate review – and we are listening. We are very mindful of cost impacts to our customers which is why we have avoided seeking a rate update for eight years. The process of updating utility rates is rigorous and transparent by design, and encourages open, public engagement. We attended the public hearings, and we will continue to listen and support our city and county leaders, community partners and our customers as we proceed through this rate review process.”
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