Seniors Protest Proposed ComEd Rate Hikes
CHICAGO (CBS) -- The idea of automatic rate hikes for ComEd doesn't sit well with the AARP - and senior citizens were out this afternoon at an Illinois Commerce Commission hearing to voice their views.
ComEd wants several things, none of which are making seniors too happy.
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They oppose an immediate rate hike, and a proposed automatic annual rate hike, which is now before the state legislature.
Chicago resident Jean Fulghum-Howard especially doesn't like the idea of annual rate increases.
"Annual is the word that gets me. It makes me... upset. I wanted to say another word but I didn't say it."
Speaking at the hearing, ComEd Vice President Ross Hemphill said the rate increases are necessary for infrastructure improvements.
"The rate increase we propose would add only about $4.80 - less than $5 - to the average monthly residential bill," he said
The immediate rate hike would take effect in June, if approved by the ICC.
