Oct. 15, 2005
 
Administrative Law Judge Grants Bluefield Gas 21% Hike
 
By William Paine
Bluefield News Network Writer
 
Bluefield, WV (BNN) – Melissa K. Marland, the Chief Administrative law judge for the Public Service Commission in Charleston agreed with the recommendation of the Consumer Advocate Division and granted the 21 percent rate increase request of Bluefield Gas.
 
Starting Nov. 1, 2005, natural gas will cost $11.88 per metric cubic foot up from $9.28 per MCF for October. Marland also agreed to allow Bluefield Gas to charge customers for any underpayment that may take place due to some being unable to pay the higher rate. Bluefield Gas will also charge its customers interest on this expected underpayment.
 
According to Blaine Braithewaite of the South Bluefield Neighborhood Association, which now has intervenor status, the price of natural gas has increased about 70 percent since 2003.