Senator Flynn and State Representatives Unite Against “Massive” Water-Rate Increases Proposed by Pennsylvania American Water, Citing Affordability Concerns for Local Residents

Senator Flynn and State Representatives Unite Against “Massive” Water-Rate Increases Proposed by Pennsylvania American Water, Citing Affordability Concerns for Local Residents

November 17, 2023

Scranton − November 17, 2023 − In a joint effort, Senator Marty Flynn and State Representatives Kyle Mullins, Bridget Kosierowski, and Kyle Donahue are deeply concerned in regards to the substantial water-rate increases proposed by Pennsylvania American Water. The proposed hikes, ranging from 25% to 32%, scheduled for August 2024, are raising alarms about the impact on the affordability of water services for local residents.

In the rate-hike request filed on November 8 with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, the suggested increases for typical water bills include:

  • Residential: A 25% increase, raising the cost from $70.65 to $88.24 for 3,201 gallons a month.
  • Commercial: A 27% increase, elevating charges from $346.13 to $439.77 for 22,094 gallons a month.
  • Industrial: A 32% increase, escalating fees from $7,663.50 to $10,173.68 for 685,947 gallons a month.

The financial burden on residents has deeply concerned Senator Flynn and State Representatives on what they describe as a “massive increase which will burden our working families and seniors on fixed incomes and have a devastating impact on monthly budgets.”

Senator Flynn and State Reps are set to hold a press conference Monday, November 20th at 11am on Stafford Ave in Scranton advocating for local residents. He emphasizes the detrimental impact on affordability and highlights the pressing need to ensure that essential water services remain affordable to all.

As the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission reviews the requested rate increase, residents are encouraged to:

  • Send Letters: Address concerns or objections to the PUC, emphasizing the potential adverse impact on household budgets.
  • Attend Public Input Hearings: Present testimony at PUC public input hearings, expressing views and concerns.
  • File Formal Complaints: Become a party to the case by filing a formal complaint before January 7, 2024. This will allow residents to participate in all hearings about the rate increase request and receive copies of all materials distributed by other parties.

For more information, residents can contact the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission at 1-800-692-7380 or visit www.puc.state.pa.us.

Senator Flynn remains steadfast in advocating for residents and safeguarding against what they perceive as an unwarranted financial burden on the community.

Senator Flynn, Representatives Welby, Mullins, and Kosierowski to Host Senior Fair on September 9

Senator Flynn, Representatives Welby, Mullins, and Kosierowski to Host Senior Fair on September 9

August 24, 2022

SCRANTON, PA – August 24, 2022 – Senator Marty Flynn (D-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Monroe) in partnership with Representatives Thom Welby, Kyle Mullins, and Bridget Kosierowsiki will be hosting a senior fair on Friday, September 9.

The event will feature more than 50 community vendors offering assistance and information on health and wellness, finances, transportation resources, and personal care services. Attendees will also be able to receive a free flu shot.

“After taking two years off because of the pandemic, I am excited to welcome back the seniors in our area for this educational and fun event at the Steamtown mall,” said Flynn.

“Our senior citizens spent their lives making out area a special place,” Mullins said. “This event is an important opportunity to give back and raise awareness of the services and programs that exist throughout the community for their benefit.”

“I’m looking forward to this year’s Joint Senior Fair. It’s a great one-stop shop for people to learn about the new and existing services which benefit our senior citizens,” Kosierowski said. “It’s important to meet with our older residents and make sure they have access to the resources and help they need to take care of themselves.”

“I am excited to be a part of this informational event that will highlight more than 50 agencies or services, while also having representatives from the offices of our State Senator and three State Representatives all in one easily accessible location,” said Welby.

The Senior Fair will occur from 11:00AM-2:00PM at the Marketplace at Steamtown, located at 300 Lackawanna Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503. Parking is free for three hours with ticket validation.

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