Written by Following an extended regulatory review, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) has finalized its decision regarding Aqua Ohio’s application for increased water and wastewater rates, filed under Case No. 25-0594-WW-AIR.
Marion Watch obtained a July 24, 2026, email from the Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC) which provided a formal update to Marion officials—including Mayor Bill Collins and Marion City Council—clarifying the community’s standing following the ruling.
The Backstory: A $13.4 Million Request
The regulatory process began on June 30, 2025, when Aqua Ohio filed an application seeking to increase its annual water service revenues by $13.4 million, or approximately 16.4%. The company, which serves roughly 154,000 customers across Ohio, argued that existing revenues were insufficient to cover capital investments, maintenance, and compliance with federal and state regulations.
As the case moved forward, it drew significant public scrutiny. Recognizing the strain of inflation and rising costs for essentials like housing and food, the OCC stepped in as the legal representative for residential consumers. During the proceedings, the OCC challenged the utility’s proposals, specifically fighting against “unsupported costs”—including approximately $1.4 million in unexplained payroll increases—and advocating for a lower return for shareholders. Public engagement remained high throughout this period, including a local hearing held at Marion City Hall in January 2026.
The PUCO Ruling
On June 10, 2026, the PUCO issued its order. While the commission permitted an increase, it was notably lower than what the utility originally sought:
- Water Revenue Increase: The PUCO authorized an annual revenue increase of approximately $9.5 million, significantly reduced from the $13.4 million initially requested.
- Fixed Charges Protected: In a win for consumer affordability, the commission rejected Aqua Ohio’s proposal to increase the fixed monthly customer charge for water service, meaning this portion of the bill remains unchanged.
- Average Consumer Impact: For typical residential customers, the decision translates to a monthly bill increase of approximately $9 to $15, depending on their specific service territory.
Clarification for Marion
It is important to note the distinction between regulated and local service territories. The OCC confirmed that the ruling on the water case does not impact areas where rates are set by local government ordinance rather than the PUCO. Furthermore, the OCC noted that Marion was not impacted by the separate wastewater rate case, identified as Case No. 25-593-ST-AIR.
At Marion Watch, we remain committed to monitoring these developments to ensure that utility costs for our residents are held to the standard of “just and reasonable.”
As the OCC noted in their correspondence to local leaders, persistent advocacy on behalf of the community made a measurable difference in the final outcome of these cases.