Skartados Speaks Out Against Central Hudson Gas and Electrict’s Proposed Rate Hikes

POUGHKEEPSIE – Assemblyman Frank Skartados (D-Milton) testified against Central Hudson Gas and Electrict’s proposed rate hikes a at a recent Public Service Commission (PSC) hearing at Poughkeepsie Town Hall.

“With severe weather becoming increasingly frequent, there’s no denying that investing in our electricity infrastructure is critical,” said Skartados. “But it’s unconscionable that these improvements be paid for by families already struggling to make ends meet. For the single mom already working two jobs and the retirees searching for ways to pay their medical bills, these hikes are simply not an option.”

Over the past several years, Central Hudson has continuously raised prices.¹ Now the company is proposing even more hikes. If approved, customers could expect to see their electric rate go up 3.7 percent and their gas rate increase by 4.7 percent in 2018.² The proposed rate hikes are expected to raise electric bills an average of $70 per year and gas bills by $60 per year.³ Central Hudson had previously announced that the rate hikes would fund vital infrastructure upgrades to combat severe weather and cyber attacks, as well as reduce power interruptions.

Central Hudson is a major employer in the area and financing infrastructure updates can be difficult; however, these costs shouldn’t come at the expense of working-class families, noted Skartados. The proposition could also harm local businesses and companies looking to relocate to and expand in the Hudson Valley.

Information sessions and public hearings are planned and community feedback is encouraged. Sessions will be held at 2 and 6 p.m., and public hearings will be conducted at 3 and 7 p.m. for both dates:

Oct. 10
Kingston City Hall Council Chambers 420 Broadway
Kingston, NY 12401

Oct. 16
Newburgh Town Hall
1496 Route 300
Newburgh, NY 12550

Additional comments can also be made to the PSC by emailing secretary@dps.ny.gov or by calling 1-800-335-2120. Comments must be submitted by Oct. 20 and should reference “Case 17-E-0459, 17-G-0460 – Central Hudson Gas and Electric Rates.”