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Dear Friends and Partners,
We have important news to share from this morning's Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) open meeting, and it's a good one for ratepayers!
The PUC Commissioners voted today to grant Commission Staff's appeal in the Aqua Texas rate case (Docket No. 58124), overturning the prior administrative law judge's order denying interim rates. The Watershed Association, Hays County, and the City of Woodcreek were among the interveners that supported this outcome, and our counsel, Lauren Ice, presented oral argument to the Commission this morning.
What does this mean for you?
Aqua Texas is seeking a sweeping rate increase, a 25% increase in water revenues, and a 47% increase in wastewater revenues, affecting over 100,000 customer connections across Texas. Aqua's proposed rates were set to take effect on March 9th. Without interim rate protections, those rates could have gone into effect without any guarantee of a refund if the Commission ultimately determined they were too high.
By granting today's appeal, the PUC has established that the rates Aqua collects beginning March 9th will be considered interim rates, meaning if the Commission's final order sets lower rates than what Aqua proposed, customers will be entitled to refunds of the difference.
Why this matters:
As we shared in our last newsletter, a nationally recognized rate expert testified that Aqua's application is so poorly documented that a reliable independent review is nearly impossible. Staff and intervener testimony have recommended revenue requirements well below what Aqua is requesting. Today's ruling ensures that ratepayers are protected while that careful review continues.
The hearing on the merits is scheduled for April 21–23, 2026, before the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH). We will continue to fight for a fair outcome for the communities we serve.
Thank you for your continued support. None of this work is possible without you!
If you'd like to amplify our ability to show up at proceedings like this one, consider making a gift through Amplify Austin. Early giving is open now, and every dollar up to $20,000 will be matched!
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