Staff reported ongoing legal work related to depositions and expert reports and told the commission depositions are expected to be completed by the end of August or early September, with expert reports to follow. Staff said they have one remaining deposition plus a Rule 30(b)(6) corporate representative deposition for SJ Lewis to obtain information not provided by other witnesses.
Staff also reported the Public Service Commission (PSC) responded to the utility’s request and permitted a pause on the rate case. Staff described that as "good news," noting that pausing may avoid filing separate rate increases while waiting for Milwaukee's decision; however, staff cautioned that if the pause lasts long enough the utility may have to provide updated data.
Staff said they are attempting to schedule mediation and that a court update is anticipated in early December, which could lead to a court date. The commission heard the report and did not take additional action during the meeting.