CPUC is “not persuaded that this proposed increase in wastewater would be either just or reasonable or fair,” its Chairwoman Viola Alepuyo and Commissioner Kyle Calabrese stated in their decision and order.
Based on the records, they said, a significant number of commercial establishments on Saipan are connected to CUC’s wastewater system, but they were neither metered nor billed for wastewater services.
CPUC said any increase in the wastewater rate will be deferred for 60 days while the hearing examiner will, in coordination with Georgetown Consulting Group and CUC, look into the issue.
The hearing examiner is advised to report to CPUC on or before June 1, 2009 about the result of its investigation.
CPUC asked the hearing examiner to identify remedial action that can be taken by CUC to meter and bill for the wastewater service provided to commercial establishments.
The timeline for remedial action should be expedited, CPUC’s order stated.
On April 3, PCUC ordered CUC to increase the water rate by 81 percent, but only half will be implemented for 60 days to allow the CNMI government and other entities to identity and tender to CUC funds from alternative sources.
CPUC at the same time ordered CUC and Georgetown Consulting, under the hearing examiner’s oversight, to develop an interim financial plan.
The plan is pursuant to the federal stipulated orders and must be filed with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency this September.
The plan will also be filed with CPUC for its review and approval during its August regulatory session.
