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Health & Fitness

Schoenberger Seeks Authorization to Join Municipal Consortium Opposing UWNY Rate Increase

Schoenberger Seeks Authorization to Join Municipal Consortium Opposing UWNY Rate Increase  

 

New City, NY (August 16, 2013) –  Rockland County Legislator Ilan Schoenberger is seeking the approval of the County Legislature to permit the County to join a municipal consortium that has formed and intervened in the matter of  the recent rate increase petition filed by United Water New York (UWNY).  If approved by the legislature, the County would share in the cost of legal representation and consulting services of Daniel P. Duthie, Esq., an attorney hired by the consortium who is experienced in matters that go before the Public Service Commission.  The consortium includes the five towns, the solid waste and sewer authorities and the Village of Grandview.  Mr. Duthie’s fees are capped at $90,000 and the percentage of cost per municipality is based upon population.

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In July, UWNY submitted a petition for a rate increase of approximately 29% ($36 per quarter) to compensate them for the costs of infrastructure improvements and increases in property tax liabilities.  This followed the utility’s June petition for a Long Term Water Supply Surcharge (LTWSS) to recover $54 million the utility claims to have incurred to date for the pre-construction planning of the proposed Hudson River desalination plant.  Schoenberger has already intervened in both matters and has “party status” which allows him to submit comments, testimony and to participate in evidentiary hearings, conferences and other formal events pertaining to either petition.

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“The greater number of consortium members will give more weight and credibility to the rate case as presented by Mr. Duthie,” said Legislator Schoenberger. “The consortium represents a loud, strong voice on behalf of the best interests of UWNY consumers.  By working together with towns, villages and the Solid Waste Authority to share the cost of the legal fees, the financial impact upon taxpayers will be reduced and the united, coordinated effort stronger.” 

 

 

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