State OKs Citizens Rate Hike

(Image courtesy of Citizens Energy Group)

Indianapolis-based Citizens Energy Group customers will see an increase in water bills beginning next month. The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission has approved a rate hike, expected to be around $5 for the average customer, to fund $100 million in infrastructure work throughout central Indiana.

The company says the average monthly bill is approximately $30.

Projects include dredging and development of a quarry near Hamilton County’s Geist Reservoir, transforming it into a new reservoir. Other work includes new water mains, water intake and delivery systems and treatment plant upgrades.

Chief Executive officer Jeff Harrison says "we are pleased the IURC recognized the need to continue upgrading our aging water distribution system while also making investments to ensure adequate water supply for a growing population and economy."

Citizens says it has invested more than $230 million in the water utility since 2011.

During a 2015 interview on Inside INdiana Business Television, former CEO Carey Lykins detailed the $20 million reservoir project.