ASHLAND, Ky. (WOWK) – Residents across the region are speaking out against a proposed increase to their electricity bills, with more than 100 people gathering in Ashland on Thursday night to share their concerns.
“I work in the school system, and I see firsthand how our most vulnerable struggle,” said Shawna McCown, an Ashland teacher. “I know the needs of our kids and our families, and this is just going to add another burden of stress onto them.”
Teachers, parents, factory workers, and retirees addressed the Kentucky Public Service Commission, urging officials to reject the proposed rate hike. The comments are part of ongoing efforts to stop Kentucky Power’s request for a 14.9% increase. Every resident who spoke said their families cannot afford higher bills. Teachers also emphasized that reliable electricity is essential for children in rural areas, allowing them to learn from home.
“If a kid is getting their power cut because they can’t make these astronomical bills, not only is that going to hurt them in so many ways, but it will hurt them educationally,” McCown said. “I feel like our rural babies are already getting left behind.”
Kentucky Power officials say the request is focused on maintaining and improving service reliability.
“This case is really about reliability and improving reliability throughout our service areas,” said Sarah Nusbaum, a communications manager for Kentucky Power. “That requires a rate increase.”
Company representatives added that broader economic conditions, not company decisions, are driving higher costs.
“The cost for everything has gone up,” Nusbaum said. “The cost for the equipment and the things that we need to keep the lights on has gone up also. It’s just a reflection of how prices for everything has gone up.”
Thursday’s meeting served as a public session hearing. The Kentucky Public Service Commission is expected to make a final decision on whether the rate increase will be approved by June 29.
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