Spencerport Municipal Electric is seeking a 10 percent increase in electric rates, the first rate hike in 12 years, and all consumers are invited to a public information meeting Wednesday, January 31, at 7 p.m. at the Spencerport Fire Hall at 175 Lyell Ave.

According to Village Administrator Al Scheg, the increase will affect only the "hydro-electric" portion of all residential, commercial and industrial customers’ bills, and will represent only a slight increase to the monthly bill.

"We encourage people to come to the meeting," Scheg said. "We could tear apart a bill for them." He said if a customer brings a bill to the meeting, officials could tell that person exactly how much of an increase to expect. The purpose of the meeting is to prevent surprises when the rates take effect, Scheg said, "Just to keep people informed."

The electric franchise is submitting the rate increase request to the Public Service Commission and expects the increase to show up on bills by this summer.

The recommendation for the rate hike came after an analysis of the franchise’s financial health prepared by Bollam, Sheedy, Torani and Co. for the village. Scheg said additional funds are needed to cover current operating costs and augment financial reserves.

"The fact that there hasn’t been a rate increase in 12 years is pretty substantial," Scheg said. "Spencerport electric is still one of the cheapest in (New York state)."