OPINION | Biddeford lawmakers blast Maine Water

Biddeford’s legislative delegation — all Democrats seeking reelection in November — recently blasted a rate increase proposed by the region’s public water utility

House Speaker Ryan Fecteau, State Sen. Henry Ingwersen and Rep. Marc Malon –all Democrats who represent Biddeford and will be seeking reelection in November – recently issued a joint statement of opposition to a rate increase proposed by Maine Water, the region’s public water utility.

The matter is now before the Maine Public Utilities Commission.

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RYAN FECTEAU | “This request could not come at a worse time for ratepayers who are facing strained household budgets just about everywhere they turn. This rate increase [26.2 percent] is well beyond cumulative inflation since the last approved rate increase.

“I supported that last rate increase, which was justified by necessary upgrades, water quality compliance and consolidation efforts.

“The memo provided at the May 6 public hearing in Saco does not provide similar justification as the previous rate increase request. Instead, it notes the increase would result in “a return on equity of 9.9 percent and overall rate of return on rate base of 7.23 percent.

“While I appreciate that Maine Water has an obligation to generate a return to H20 America and its shareholders, the PUC has an obligation to ratepayers who can only bear the brunt of so many rate hikes.”

HENRY INGWERSEN | “I am deeply disappointed that Maine Water Company is proposing a steep, double-digit rate increase at an uncertain time when Biddeford families and seniors are struggling to stretch their household budgets.

“Here in Maine, we can do little to control the foreign affairs or national economic policies that are driving up costs, but we can control how much Mainers pay for the essentials – water being among the most essential of them all.

“We’re already paying far too much at the pump, and we shouldn’t be expected to pay more at the tap, too. I call on the Maine Water Company to reconsider its request.”

MARC MALON | “While I believe it is critically important to maintain our drinking water infrastructure; I cannot support Maine Water’s proposed rate hike of 26 percent.

“I understand that providing quality drinking water to residents is costly, but I hear from folks in Biddeford every day who are being hit with rising costs everywhere they look – from paying their electricity and grocery bills to filling their gas tanks.

“I urge the Public Utilities Commission to reject this request and for Maine Water to reconsider its approach.”

NOTICE | All public documents in the case, #2026-00028, are available on the Public Utilities Commission’s Online Case Management System. Public comments may also be filed online.

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS | Information about the members of Biddeford’s legislative delegation can be found at BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | STATE LAWMAKERS

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