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PSC seeks consumer input on MDU rate increase

The North Dakota Public Service Commission will hold public input sessions across the state on Oct. 24 and 25 regarding a request from Montana Dakota Utilities to increase its rates for natural gas service.

Sessions will be held via interactive television on both days at 5 p.m. in Room 359 of the administrative building at Minot State University. The public will also be able to listen to the public input session through a webcast and submit questions by e-mail. Officials from MDU will provide a presentation and answer questions.

The proposed increase is for $5.9 million annually over current rates, or a 5.4 percent overall increase. The proposed increase to residential gas customers is 5.9 percent. If approved, rates would increase for residential customers by an average of about $2.98 a month. MDU states that reason for the request is capital investment in pipeline replacement projects to enhance the safety and integrity of the natural gas system, as well as increased cost to operate and maintain the system.

Public input sessions are not considered part of the formal technical hearing, but the PSC commissioners will be attending and using the information gathered at the sessions to identify areas of concern that may require further investigation during the formal technical hearing, which is scheduled for Feb. 28.

To listen via webstream, visit http://state.video.nd.gov and log in as guest@psc.gov. The password is psc. Questions can be submitted by email during the sessions to vschock@nd.gov.

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