BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The West Virginia Public Service Commission has recommended approving a reduced water rate increase for Beckley Water Company after months of public complaints over water quality, leaks, outages, and customer communication.
In a recommended decision entered April 30, 2026, the PSC approved a settlement that would allow Beckley Water Company to increase rates by approximately 11.78% instead of the originally requested 22.72% increase.
Beckley Water initially sought an additional $3.9 million annually in revenue, citing rising labor costs, material expenses, and infrastructure investments. Staff with the PSC later recommended a smaller increase of roughly 7.29%, before the company and PSC staff ultimately reached a settlement agreement.
Under the agreement, the company is expected to receive approximately $2 million in additional annual revenue.
According to testimony during an April 15 public hearing, the average residential customer bill is expected to increase by about $4.51 per month, bringing the average monthly bill to approximately $38.68.
The case drew significant public opposition, with the PSC noting it received around 90 written comments from residential customers objecting to the proposed increase.
During the hearing, customers from across Raleigh County voiced frustrations about recurring water outages, muddy or heavily chlorinated water, leaking infrastructure, poor communication during outages, and unfinished road and driveway repairs following water line work.
Several residents, including Sophia Mayor Ralph Sallie, criticized the company for repeatedly patching aging water lines instead of replacing them. Others questioned why rates should increase before service quality improves.
State Sen. Rollan Roberts also addressed the PSC during the hearing, saying residents are struggling with rising utility bills while Beckley Water continues to face ongoing infrastructure and communication issues.
Beckley Water officials defended the increase, saying the company needs additional revenue to maintain operations, retain workers, and continue infrastructure upgrades. Company representatives testified that Beckley Water has reduced water loss through its Distribution System Improvement Charge (DSIC) program and plans to continue replacing aging lines.
The PSC also directed Beckley Water to improve outage notifications by encouraging customers to enroll in the company’s phone and text alert system. The company must place notices on customer bills or include bill inserts for three consecutive months explaining how customers can sign up for service alerts.
The approved rates are scheduled to take effect for service rendered on or after July 21, 2026.
