Consumer News... For You! The OUCC's March 2018 Newsletter
State of Indiana sent this bulletin at 03/09/2018 08:57 AM EST
MARCH 2018
LEAKS ADD UP. QUICKLY. Did you know that a leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons of water each day? That's not a typo: Each day. You can easily check for leaks by putting a few drops of food coloring in the tank, waiting for 10 or 15 minutes, and seeing if the coloring goes into the bowl. Be sure to flush when you're done. It's one of several things we'll encourage all consumers to do during Fix a Leak Week, set this year for the third week in March.
I&M RATE AGREEMENT The OUCC, Indiana Michigan Power (I&M), and numerous additional parties have reached a settlement agreement that substantially reduces the utility's request. Among the terms, the flat monthly residential customer charge would rise from $7.30 to $10.50, instead of the $18 charge the utility initially requested. The agreement is now pending before the IURC which can accept, deny, or modify any settlement it considers.
NIPSCO RATE CASE Our analysis in the NIPSCO natural gas rate case recommends limiting the utility's proposed increase to $69 million. NIPSCO reduced its $143.5 million request to $117.9 million in January, following passage of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act. An evidentiary hearing is scheduled to start in mid-May.
MORE CASES
Investor-owned utilities under IURC jurisdiction have until March 26 to submit revised tariffs in the commission's investigation related to federal tax relief. Updates will be posted on the OUCC's website.
OUCC testimony on Indiana American Water Company's lead service line plan is due on April 13.
We have reached settlement agreements with the cities of Lafayette and Auburn in their respective water rate cases. Both utilities have not had water rate increases in more than 15 years.
STAY SAFE! Are you ready for Spring? Especially if you're an excavator or planning a construction project? Free training classes on the Indiana Dig Law are being offered throughout the state over the next two months, starting March 14 in Evansville. Even if you do a small project in the yard that involves digging, it's important to call 811 or complete the form at 811now.com at least 2 business days in advance.
NEW JOB GROWTH INCENTIVES A new program will give low-income communities throughout Indiana the chance to use federal tax incentives to encourage job creation and investments. More than 150 census tracts throughout Indiana may qualify for the "Opportunity Zone" designation. Governor Eric J. Holcomb is inviting applications through March 23.
OUR MISSION To represent all Indiana consumers to ensure quality, reliable utility services at the most reasonable prices possible through dedicated advocacy, consumer education, and creative problem solving.
