Dryden area residents had the perfect opportunity Tuesday night to comment on proposed Hydro One rate increases and learn more about the reason behind the move, but basically no one took advantage of it.
Only two members of the public and a representative for Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell attended a public meeting at the Legion, but the conversation ended up being educational and effective for those involved.
Jay Armitage is the Director of Communications for Hydro One and she says they have done seven sessions across the province and although it was a small group, everyone asked really smart questions and were engaged in the conversation.
Armitage explained the request to raise rates over the next five years is due to the number of poles that need to be replaced as well as system upgrades.
Statistics presented showed that 280,000 hydro poles are at or beyond their expected life this year and that number will jump another 120,000 within the next five years.
Armitage adds they are also looking to reduce the number of power outages with local improvements.
She stresses they are always open and transparent and says hydro rates will in fact go down on Canada Day when the Fair Hydro plan kicks in.
Hydro One notes the increase in distribution rates would basically be cancelled out by the incoming relief, were customers in our area are set to receive a 31% on the low end to 50% on the high end.
The average bill in the Dryden area would be $124 if the rate application is approved.
The event was hosted by the Ontario Energy Board and Registrar Kristi Sebalj says they will be taking an in-depth look at the numbers and all public comments.
Sebalj says Hydro One has basically submitted a five year business plan and they are now looking at all areas that they need to operate.
That includes customer care, number of employees, infrastructure upgrades, operations and maintenance budgets and compensation.
She says the OEB will test and conduct independent checks on all evidence that has been submitted by Hydro One.
Sebalj notes it will be a long process and a final hearing may not occur until late this year.
The OEB heads to Sudbury Wednesday for another public meeting.
