MOPC Council to discuss proposed NSP hike

A MOPC councillor wants the municipality to make a presentation to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board during a hearing on Nova Scotia Power’s proposed rate increase.

District 7 Coun. David Parker said during February’s council meeting that the proposed 10 percent increase by Nova Scotia Power based on the utility estimating the potential cost of extreme storms and unforeseen damage is unacceptable.

He said concerns have been expressed in the past from council and residents about the lack of tree trimming in Pictou County by Nova Scotia Power and work has been done locally to improve the situation.

“Now they are suggesting that we the ratepayers should be on the hook, at their discretion, for unusual storms.  I consider it to be an analogy to me saying I have not done any maintenance on my vehicle and when it does break, need new tires, or ball joints or whatever, you have to help me pay for it.   This is not a good deal for the ratepayers. “

He said the company produces electricity, but they also need to maintain their own power lines to provide this service.

Coun. Parker said the MOPC should make a presentation during the NSUARB hearing to express its concerns and let the UARB know this should not be put on taxpayers.  Council agreed to discuss the issue further at its March property and finance meetings.