Botetourt to intervene in Aqua Virginia rate case after company seeks roughly 26% hike

Botetourt County officials approved county participation in a State Corporation Commission proceeding after Aqua Virginia filed for a large multi-jurisdiction rate increase.

County attorney Mike Lockerbie briefed supervisors on the filing and said Aqua Virginia sought a 26.42% overall increase; because of local rate structure differences the impact on Botetourt customers is likely higher, "probably closer to 33%," he said. Lockerbie explained the SCC process, noting the commission staff conducts prudency reviews and determines an allowable return on common equity; Aqua requested a return of about 10.75% while local advocates expect the commission to allow a lower range.

Lockerbie recommended county participation to present evidence about rate design, areas where costs could be reduced and to coordinate with other local governments and large customer groups. Supervisors voted to appoint Lockerbie to represent Botetourt County in the proceeding.

What the board authorized: the county will intervene, coordinate with other affected localities and use the SCC hearing process (staff audits, expert testimony and rate-design evidence) to press for fairer allocations and a lower return-on-equity when appropriate. The board recorded a voice vote in favor and the motion carried.