Full Breakdown
Board of Public Utilities Plans Rate Increases and Fiber Network Rollout
12/19/2025, 11:58:09 AM
Overview of Upcoming Changes
As 2026 approaches, the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) is preparing for significant changes, including a potential increase in electric division rates, the introduction of a fee for yard waste stickers, and the ongoing rollout of an open access fiber network. These topics were discussed during a recent City Council meeting attended by outgoing BPU General Manager David Leathers, incoming General Manager Kris Sellstrom, and BPU business development coordinator Ellen Ditonto.
Electric Division Rate Increase
Leathers outlined the planned budgets for each BPU division, noting that while the solid waste and wastewater divisions will not see rate increases in 2026, the electric division is awaiting approval from the New York State Public Service Commission for a proposed rate increase. This increase is expected to be just under 10% and would be the first adjustment to base electric rates since March 2016. Leathers emphasized that the BPU board does not directly approve these rate increases, as they require state approval. He expressed optimism about receiving this approval by the end of December, with the new rates potentially taking effect on January 1, 2026.
Fiber Network Development
Kris Sellstrom provided an update on the BPU's fiber project, indicating that progress has been satisfactory despite winter weather halting main line installations. Currently, approximately 1,200 customers have signed up for the service, although only about 200 are in areas ready for installation. Home installations are anticipated to commence in January 2026. Ellen Ditonto highlighted the marketing efforts aimed at educating the public about the benefits of the open access fiber network, including the use of social media and billboards to disseminate information.
Official Statements & Responses
Leathers stated, “Our board can approve the direction to go file a rate case at the Public Service Commission, which we did around July 1 of this year.” He also mentioned the need to collaborate with new BPU board members and City Council members in early 2026 to address upcoming challenges.
Criticism & Opposition
While the BPU's plans have been generally well-received, concerns have been raised about the timing and necessity of the electric rate increase, particularly given the long duration since the last adjustment. Critics argue that any increase should be carefully justified to ensure it does not disproportionately affect low-income residents.
What's Next
Looking ahead, the BPU anticipates the establishment of a sixth division by the end of 2026, although this is not considered urgent at present. The focus remains on finalizing the fiber network rollout and addressing the implications of the proposed rate increases.
Verbatim Quotes
- “One of the things we’ve worked very hard on is to do what we call organic marketing,” — Ellen Ditonto, BPU Business Development Coordinator
- “So for the electric division, strictly for our base rates, we’re waiting approval from the public service commission on that rate case filing. We think we will get that before the end of December and will have the base rate increase for electric effective January 1 but that’s not given yet.” — David Leathers, Outgoing BPU General Manager
