NORWICH ­— During the recent Chenango County Board of Supervisors meeting, officials addressed concerns over current and proposed New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) rate increases, delivery charges, and additional fees to rate payers.

The board voted to send a declaration to officials, requesting New York State Public Serve Commission (PSC) perform a thorough investigation.

With growing concerns over lack of transparency, uncontrolled or unexplained rate increases, and current rate-setting purposes, the board of supervisors also requested PSC to hold state rate case hearings in person in each respective county.

“When the PSC holds rate case hearings, they are always in a metropolitan area and not in each county,” said Board Chairman Jeffrey Blanchard.

Blanchard explained metropolitan areas have their own issues as do rural areas and said if hearings were held in each county, local people could travel easier to attend and share their concerns.

Blanchard said he believes NYSEG operates in 44 of the 62 counties in New York and although he has faith in the state asking for fair and equitable treatment for everyone, he feels NYSEG could do a better job purchasing energy from suppliers and noted it's important to protect county residents and small businesses from unfair utility burdens.

An amended resolution will be sent to State officials and includes the following verbiage: “Resolved that the Chenango County Board of Supervisors demands that the PCS holds in person rate case hearings in each respective county.”