Poughkeepsie, N.Y. – Just months after residents crowded Poughkeepsie Town Hall urging state regulators to block Central Hudson’s latest rate hike request, the Public Service Commission (PSC) has approved the increase. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from local leaders, including Town Supervisor Rebecca Edwards, who voiced her frustration on Sunday.
Supervisor Calls Decision “Extremely Disappointing”
Edwards did not hold back in her response to the PSC’s ruling, saying she was “extremely disappointed and angry” that the rate increases were approved.
“As extra salt in the wound, Central Hudson executives stand to make $28 million in raises and $2.8 million in bonuses,” Edwards said. “The rate-case system is fundamentally broken. We need wholesale change.”
Her comments reflect widespread community frustration, as residents have long criticized the utility for billing errors, poor customer service, and rising energy costs.
Community Opposition Overlooked
Earlier this year, dozens of residents attended a packed public meeting at Town Hall, voicing their opposition to the proposed hike. Many argued that families and small businesses in Dutchess County cannot afford another increase in utility costs, particularly while lingering billing issues remain unresolved.
Despite the strong pushback, the PSC moved forward with its approval, citing infrastructure needs and system improvements as part of the justification for higher rates.
Next Steps for Residents
Edwards said she plans to use Wednesday’s town board meeting to outline ways that residents can continue fighting what she described as unfair and burdensome costs.
She emphasized the importance of keeping pressure on both state regulators and Central Hudson, pushing for reforms to how rate cases are handled and demanding greater accountability from the utility.
“Our residents should not be forced to pay for the company’s massive mistakes and continued billing errors,” Edwards said.
Broader Debate on Utility Oversight
The approval of Central Hudson’s rate hike is the latest chapter in an ongoing debate about energy costs and utility oversight in the Hudson Valley. Critics argue that the regulatory process favors large utility companies, while average customers are left footing the bill.
Local officials, including Edwards, say the situation highlights the need for reforms at the state level to ensure that rate cases are handled with greater transparency and fairness to the public.
Looking Ahead
With rate increases now set to take effect, residents of Poughkeepsie and surrounding communities are bracing for higher utility bills. Meanwhile, Edwards and other leaders are preparing to rally continued opposition and explore potential avenues for relief.
The town board meeting on Wednesday is expected to serve as the next platform for outlining strategies to challenge the increases and push for systemic change.
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