Public Service Commission of Wisconsin Issues Regulatory Update on Water Rate Adjustment

Strategic Insights -

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin has announced a public hearing to consider an application by the Village of Benton for authority to adjust its water rates. The hearing, scheduled for September 15, 2025, will provide an opportunity for the public to comment on the proposed rate adjustment. The Commission has made arrangements for public participation through both in-person attendance and remote participation via Zoom or telephone.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin will hold a public hearing on September 15, 2025, to consider the Village of Benton's application to adjust its water rates.
  • The hearing will provide an opportunity for the public to comment on the proposed rate adjustment, with options for in-person attendance, Zoom participation, and remote testimony via telephone.
  • The Commission has outlined specific rules for public comments, including limitations on the types of documents that can be submitted and requirements for sworn statements regarding comments solicited on behalf of others.
  • The hearing is classified as a Class 1 proceeding under Wis. Stat. § 227.01(3)(a), and members of the public may testify without becoming parties to the proceeding.
  • The Commission has stated that it will only accept documents that are written or substantially modified by the person offering the comment, and will not accept comments submitted on behalf of others without prior approval.

Statistics:

  • The hearing date is set for September 15, 2025.
  • Public comments may be submitted in writing via the Commission's website or by U.S. mail by September 17, 2025.
  • There are three options for public participation: in-person attendance, Zoom participation, and remote testimony via telephone.
  • The Commission will provide closed captioning and the image of the face of each person speaking during Zoom and YouTube livestreams.
  • The notice is a Class 1 proceeding, as defined in Wis. Stat. § 227.01(3)(a).

Sources:

  • Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, Application of the Village of Benton, Lafayette County, Wisconsin, as a Water Public Utility, for Authority to Adjust Water Rates 460-WR-103.