20250324Comments_37.pdf

The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name:Jackie Bruns
Submission Time: Mar 21 2025 5:22PM
Email: [e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:29242 N Silver Meadows Loop
Athol, ID 83801
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: " We recently received our first and only notice from Gem State Water on March 12,2025
informing us of a proposed rate increase of 79%. This rate increases our median bill from$35.00 to$62.65
and decreases our median usage from 10,000 to 7,000 gallons,which is extremely unreasonable. We just
went through a rate increase 2 years ago for the exact reasons that are stated in the letter that we received. In
March of 2023,Gem State Water almost doubled our bill from$21.00 to$35.00 and reduced our median
usage from 15,000 to 10,000 gallons.
We don't believe that it is the customer's fault that Gem State Water purchased the company without doing
due diligence. Gem State has a monopoly and it is being used against us. We understand that operating
costs will increase due to inflation but this is exorbitant. We request that the IPUC deny this increase.
If these frequent excessive water rate increases continue, it will become a financial hardship to maintain our
vegetable gardens and the green space around our home. This will, in turn, lower our property values, but
more importantly our ability to protect our home from wildfires. We would like to request a public hearing
before a decision is made on this rate increase.
Thankyou,
Joel&Jackie Bruns
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The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name:Judy Gerstenberger
Submission Time: Mar 22 2025 6:28PM
Email: Judyg7g(Ebgmail.com
Telephone:[phone]
Address:31244 n spirit dr
Spirit Lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem state
Case ID:
Comment: "79%increase for gem State residential water is ridiculous. "
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The following comments were submitted via PUCWeb:
Name: Kim Ward
Submission Time: Mar 22 2025 5:51 PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:4989 a beargrass
Athol, ID 83801
Name of Utility Company:Gem state water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "Please stop this company from trying to push us long time people out! Retired and can't afford
this insanity.They already raised the rates last year.enough is enough! "
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Name:Audrey Lee
Submission Time: Mar 22 2025 6:04PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address: 19830 N Wandering Pines Rd
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:GEM STATE WATER
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "The moment our little Ma and Pa water company got bought by Gem State(which I was told is
based in Seattle) I knew we were gonna have to fight one day on raised water hikes. But never in my wildest
dreams did I think it was going to be going for a 79%increase!That is absolutely disgusting.We have been hit
with ever utility going up this year with Avista and Kootenai Electric. But those raised rates are no were near
79%."Sorry kids, no garden,and showers are every three days now thanks to the rate increase:' If you
approve this rate increase,you are truly misguided and may God have mercy on your soul."
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Name: Larry rubin
Submission Time: Mar 22 2025 6:45PM
Email: mooseman112C0yahoo.com
Telephone:[phone]
Address: 1903 w dolan rd
rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
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Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "This the second increase since Gem state took over.79 percent is ridiculous.Quit gouging us:'
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Name: Deborah Wilson-Skinner
Submission Time: Mar 22 2025 8:06PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:29257 N Silver Meadows Loop
Athol, ID 83801-8588
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "Good Morning> I am requesting an Open Forum (Meeting in Athol), Idaho regarding Gem State
Water request to raise our rates. I have been communicating with residents affected by this request and we
are all extremely unhappy. The issues concerning us per month rate change,gallons per month reduction
from two years ago of 15K to 10K and now they want 7K with a 79%rate hike. Before our new rate per gallon
kicks in the charges Gem State Water has outlined are in question. Respectfullywe need the Commission to
dig into this request and provide the Open Forum here in Athol. In our Community,we only use June,July,
August,September, (4)months for watering our Lawns,Gardens, Flowers,Trees,and our Livestock. The
request acts as though usage is a year around demand. The last increase covered the upgrades now they
want another increase with another decrease of base water usage to 7,000 gallons. We understand that track
homes may not need a base rate of 10,000 gallons. We are Rural 5 acre properties with Fields to grow grass
for our Livestock and maintain green belts around our homes in case of Fire. There has to be some
differences between Larger Properties and Track Homes. We understand that inflation has hit the entire
Country due to the last Administration. We have also been hit by this same inflation! We understand the
Companies want to make a profit but not at the outrageous 79%rate hike. That is called Gouging! And just
plain GREED!!! It is funny but my Wife& I are Retired and at best may sometime this year see a 3%Cola
in our Income! I think there is a bit of a GAP there! One of our major concerns is that we understand this
Water Company(Gem State) is out of State Company buying up all the Water Rights in our Area. Before you
know it the People of Idaho won't have any Water Rights at all. One other thing that we have noticed in the
past few years Government discussions of Budgets and just plain money as though it is a Monopoly game.
They talk about it with a Billion Dollars here and there like it is nothing. We pay high enough Taxes to the State
of Idaho and to the Federal Government that we don't have to spend outrageous amount of money for basic
necessities. Thank you for your time and please consider your Constituents and not the Greed of an Out-of-
State Water Company. Sincerely; Paul and Deborah Skinner in Athol, Idaho. USA:'
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Name:Chelse Nealeigh
Submission Time: Mar 22 2025 8:16PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:29715 N Silver Meadows Loop
Athol, ID 83801
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Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "I am writing in opposition of the proposed rate increase by Gem State Water.The increase is
egregious and many families in this area cannot afford this jump in utility payment amount. In the bitterroot
area,we all have 5+acres to properly maintain and many of us have animals in addition to a family to support
-requiring access to affordable,clean,and adequate amounts of water is absolutely necessary and non-
negotiable. In addition,the summer poses a significant fire risk to our area and without water to maintain our
lands to curtail such fire risk it puts our neighborhood in significant danger. This proposed increase will
negatively affect our community in significant and serious ways. Please reconsider.Thank you. "
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Name: Dalton Vaughan
Submission Time: Mar 22 2025 8:23PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:31682 n priest river dr
Spirit lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem state water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "Under what circumstances is increasing the price of a basic nessecity by over 50%while
decreasing the amount allowed to use legitimatize. I understand prices increase however we just had a price
increase in the last 2 years.What happens to the amount of water that I don't use in a month.Why is it not
given towards a month I go over.Why don't you pay me when I don't use the alloted amount.This is price
gouging at it finest and should not be tolerated "
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Name: Bridgette Baker
Submission Time: Mar 22 2025 11:03PM
Email: [e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:26428N Silver Meadows Loop
Athol, ID 83801
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "The recent notice of an additional increase of 78%in our current water costs comes only a
couple years after the last increase of similar amount.Cost has already been nearly doubled and the usage
allowance for the standard rate was decreased at that time from 15k per month to only 10k gallons per
month.This represents less than the average usage for a family of four in a suburban location already.The
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Latest notice indicates this will not only have an additional increase in monthly cost but will further decrease
the standard to only 7k gallons per month.There is no specific reasoning noted for this increase and the items
noted for the prior increase have not even been fully implemented.This increase is excessive and unfair to
this rural community where water usage typically supports livestock in addition to the residents of the home.
There is no usage for sprinkler systems or watering of fields-yet this will result in excessive increases in
monthly billing for the residents on these systems. Please thoroughly evaluate the true costs and projects
that are being claimed as the reason for these increases, including wage increases that have been awarded in
recent years... have expenses been appropriate and wage increases equitable and not excessive?Many
residents in this affected area are on limited fixed incomes and this increase represents a hardship in an
economy which is straining household budgets to the extreme already. Please do not award this increase in
what appears to simply be a money grab by Gem State Water.Thank you:'
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The following comments were submitted via PUCWeb:
Name:Thomas Williams
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 8:15AM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:6372 Coeur d'Alene Dr.
Spirit Lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem State
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "A 79%increase is a ridiculously large amount to impose.With the last increase from$25 to$35
all we have seen is a new water meter and a large DROP in water pressure.With the proposed increase to over
$62 and a decrease in the allotment this request is unacceptable:'
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Name: Nick Zito
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 8:20AM
Email: [e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address: 18414 N Circle S Trl
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "We are asking you to deny Gem State Water a 78.8%increase in water rates.
This is an unreasonably high increase.
Since they have taken over water company, rates have increased while the service has decreased.
If approved,this increase will hurt many families that rely on their water service.
Thank you.
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The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
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Name:william branson
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 9:07AM
Email:whatwasmtemailagain13 gmail.com
Telephone:[phone]
Address:32641 N roberts rd
athol, ID 83801
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "The proposed massive increase is egregious. Especially piggy backing off the previous massive
increase.There have been NO improvements in service since the last increase. However we do see the fancy
new blue 100k F350 cruising the neighborhood.We need to see where the funds from the original increase
have gone. If this size of an increase is needed so soon the possibility of funds either being misappropriated
or mismanaging can't be ignored. I think an investigation is warranted:'
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The following comments were submitted via PUCWeb:
Name: Kathleen Werth man-Gizdich
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 11:27AM
Email: katsuewerthman(o)gmail.com
Telephone:[phone]
Address:31893 N. Newman Dr.
Spirit Lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "I am opposed to the 79%rate increase for residents of Spirit Lake East.This increase is too much
all at once. Rate increases should match cost of living increases comparable to the area affected. Kootenai
County wage earners and retired citizens have not had cost of living increases comparable to this dramatic
rate increase.-Kathleen Werthman Gizdich"
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Name: Meghann McAlister
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 11:47AM
Email: [e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:827 W Highway 54
Spirit Lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem State
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
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Comment: "After receiving the notice of such a drastic increase in our water cost, I felt compelled to write in. I
understand the variety of reasons for a rate increase, but having lived in the same house for 20 years,this
amount is absurd! Rate increase, sure. By 79%?Pure greed.This needs to be reviewed."
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The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name:Janice Skikas
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 1:33PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address: 1129 E Amulet Circle
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "Idaho PUC,
Earlier this month,we received notice that Gem State Water(GSW)is requesting a significant increase in our
prices for water-an egregious 79%. Not only this,the monthly base line usage is being reduced from 7,000
gallons to 5,000 gallons-a 29%decrease.
The reason for their stated increase is"to recover the current cost of operating and maintaining the water
systems...prudently incurred system improvements...recent investments to replace aging infrastructure".
Per the Idaho Public Utilities Commission Mission Statement,the Commission serves the citizens and
utilities of Idaho by ensuring that the rates and policies established for utilities services are fair,just,
reasonable and nondiscriminatory...
Gem State Water's proposed increase of 79%is neither fair, nor just, nor reasonable.As such, it should be
denied in its entirety. Have them revisit their budget and provide us users with a proposal that is fair,just,AND
reasonable.
John and Janice Skikas
Bar Circle"S"Area"
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The following comments were submitted via PUCWeb:
Name:Annette Jessen
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 4:04PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:4409 w highway 54
Spirit lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem state water
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Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "As a Gem State Water company customer, it's ridiculous the increase they are proposing. Like
many others, we are on a fixed income and we would struggle with this huge increase, have already gone up
several years ago. Thank you for your time"
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Name: Darrel Ramus
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 4:21 PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address: 14126 N Rodeo Rd
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "The proposed rate increase is both offensive and deceptive theyway this is being imposed on our
neighborhood.Offensive because the increase is so far beyond being reasonable,and so far beyond any
inflation operating costs that it can only be based on greed or a lack of efficiency.This is also deceptive
showing a 53%increase for Diamond Bar Estates that in reality will be far more since a median usage of 7,000
gallons is not a reality for 5 acres with seasonal irrigation. I ran the new rates using our current base rates of
$41 for 7,500 on a 1" meter plus$112 for 35,000 on a 2" meter using proposed rates in the 2/28/2025
Amended Application and it is actually a 87%increase! If we use more than our current base gallons it can
easily double our current monthly rates! I can provide my calculations for this claim!"
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The following comments were submitted via PUCWeb:
Name: Darrel Ramus
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 5:12PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address: 14126 N Rodeo Rd
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "Gem State Water had ALREADY INCREASED our water rates in 2023.
ONLY 2 YEARS LATER they are back at the PUC to increase rates in 2025!!!
Overage rates per 1000 gallons between 2022 to the proposed 2025 increased 388%!!!
"From 2023 to 2025, US inflation,as measured by the Consumer Price Index(CPI), has seen a decline,with
the annual inflation rate easing from 3.0%in January 2025 to 2.9%in February 2025"
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The proposed 2025 increase is clearly not due to inflation since the last increase.
So,did Gem State Water make poor decisions buying so many water districts?
Or, is Gem State Water so inefficient they need to raise rates by nearly 4 TIMES!!!
If none of the above, is this their attempt to justify rates during their worst 2 years!!!
After this massive rate increase, it will be a profit machine extracted from rate payers!!!
We implore the Idaho PUC to study their books and not allow this monopoly pure profit!!! "
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Name: Darrel Ramus
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 5:29PM
Email:darrelramus(agmaiLcom
Telephone:[phone]
Address: 14126 N Rodeo Rd
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "Gem State Water,your notice to customers is late and deceptive!!!
The Gem State Water PUC Notice was Postmarked on 3/6/2025!!!
We couldn't open, read and respond to the PUC application until 3/16/2025.
There's no time to ask questions and get responses before rates increase on 4/1/2025!!!
THIS IS AN UNEXCEPTABLE TIMELINE for such a massive rate increase!!!
If this happens,our elected representatives will be hearing from ALL OF US!!!
We respectfully request a PUC Hearing before a rate increase to ask critical questions.
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Name: Mark Mecord
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 5:32PM
Email: [e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:31562 N Spirit Dr
Spirit Lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem State
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "I formally object to the proposal the Gem State has submitted to the PUC.They received an
increase just 2 years ago and now it appears that they want to gouge their customers.They have stated in the
mailing we received that there would be a 79%increase with a usage of 7000 gallons. Gem State's parent
company(Northwest Natural Holding Company)made enough profit off the companies they own to issue
dividends to their stockholders. In this application,they don't break down the costs for each system,just
Lumps them together. If they had done due diligence when they purchase the 6 systems they would have seen
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that the profit potential isn't there. Please reject their application. I have done a little research and have come
up with the following:
In Exhibit 2 of the application they have a number of items with no justifications or explanations.Specifically
sections 501,620.5,636.5,636.6, 641.5,and 650.3.
In the Rate Design section, item 27 indicates that they will be submitting another application to reduce the
allowance with the goal of eliminating it.They are calling it a free allowance, but it is built into the base. If they
were to be totally upfront with the charges,they would have shown that the actual cost is$21.84(base less
the incremental cost of water).Just comparing the current cost and the cost with the increased incremental
($1.88 to$4.50)is a 42%increase.
The incremental increase of water is 139%. During the summer we have to water our pastures to decrease the
fire danger and to help feed the horses.We also have a garden that we need to help supplement and augment
our meals. Instead of a$38.76 bill we would be facing a$71.50 bill(a 84.47%increase).
We are seniors on a fixed income.We get cost of living increases but nowhere near the 79%that Gem State is
asking for.We can see an increase due to electricity price increases and a nominal increase for salaries:'
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Name: Darrel Ramus
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 6:02PM
Email:darrelramusC«>gmail.com
Telephone:[phone]
Address: 14126 N Rodeo Rd
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "For people or agencies unfamiliar with our region our subdivision, like many others that are now
served by Gem State Water,are zoned as 5 acre rural agricultural parcels.The purpose for these parcels are
to promote lower densities and less demand on the local environment.A typical residential subdivision can
easily squeeze 25 lots into our 5 acre parcels. Many times,we are wrongfully compared by our water usage to
these small lots covered with high density pavement,concrete, buildings and landscaping.
The US EPA estimates"the average American uses around 82 gallons per day per person in the household.
That means a family of four would use around 10,000 gallons in a 30-day period:'
At that rate,a high density 25 lot subdivision on our same 5 acres would average 1/4 million gallons per month
according to the EPA study. Even with higher seasonal irrigation demand on our 5 acre parcels with only have
1 house,we use LESS THAN 10%of the total water at an average of 25,000 gallons during irrigation season
and the same 10,000 otherwise over a 30 day period.This promotes lower impact and encourages open
space which should be encouraged and not vilified in Idaho!!!
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Recognizing we are zoned as 5 acre rural agricultural parcels,our base usage in gallons should remain at
7,500 on 1"and 35,000 on 2" meters with lower base and overage rates consistent with the recent Gem State
Water increase ONLY 2 YEARS AGO IN 2023!!!
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Name: Diamond Bar Estates Homeowners Association Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 6:41 PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address: P.O. Box 1763
Hayden, ID 83835
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "On behalf of the Diamond Bar Estates HOA Members,we strongly concur with the research and
findings outlined, and duplicated in part herein,from the letter filed on 3/19/2025 by:
Jaycie Marich and Richard Raykowski
1531 E Amulet Cir Rathdrum, ID 83858
This increase is excessive, unjustified,and inconsistent with Idaho's statutory requirements for"just and
reasonable"utility rates.The proposed rate increase directly contravenes IDAHO CODE#61-301,which
explicitly requires that:All charges made,demanded or received by any public utility for any product or
commodity furnished,or to be furnished,or for any services rendered, or to be rendered,shall be just and
reasonable".
Furthermore, IDAHO CODE#61-625 places the burden of proof squarely on the utility to demonstrate that
proposed rates are just and reasonable. Based on the information provided,Gem State Water has failed to
meet this burden for the following reasons:
1. The Proposed increase is Unprecedented and Disproportionate
2. The increase is extraordinarily excessive by any reasonable standard.This increase would impose
sudden,severe financial hardship on customers, many of whom are on fixed incomes or have budgeted
based on established utility costs.
3. Inadequate Justification Provided.The notification vaguely references"cost of operating and
maintaining the water system"without providing:
a. Specific breakdown of the costs.
b. Evidence that all investments are necessary and prudently incurred.
C. Demonstration that alternatives to such a dramatic rate increase is fully explored.
d. Evidence that operational efficiencies were maximized before seeking additional revenue.
In accordance with IDAHO CODE#61-502,which grants the IPUC authority to determine just and reasonable
rates, I respectfully request that the Commission:
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1.Suspend the proposed rates for the full statutory period under IDAHO CODE#61-623 to conduct a
thorough investigation.
2. Require Gem State Water to provide detailed justification for each component of the proposed increase.
3.Consider rejecting the application outright or significantly modifying the requested increase.
4. If any increase is deemed necessary, implement a phase approach over multiple years to minimize
customer impact.
5. Ensure any approved rate design equitably distributes costs across all customer classes Conclusion.
The proposed increase fails to meet these standards and should be rejected or substantially modified by the
Commission.We respectfully request a hearing,and to be notified of any hearing or public comment
opportunities related to this case, prior to imposing these rate increases.
Darrel Ramus, Diamond Bar Estates
HOA President,Secretary,Treasurer
[e-mail]
208.770.8789"
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Name:Sarah Lane
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 8:38PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:284 Pend Oreille Dr
Spirit Lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "The rate increase proposed by Gem State Water is an overly high burden to place upon its
customers.An increase of over 70%is absolutely unacceptable.There should be an annual cap on the
percentage of increase allowed and it should not be anywhere near what they are proposing. Having any bill
jump by that kind of percentage throws a wrench in any budget, especially for those with fixed or low incomes
who are already living with massive increases in the cost of every non-fixed line item on that budget. "
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Name: Debbi Jasper
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 8:49PM
Email:deb065CcOicloud.com
Telephone:[phone]
Address:2894 W.Diamond Bar Rd.
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gem state water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
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Comment: "We are very much against the rate increase to the Diamond Bar Estates we have lived here for 24
years and have never been subjected to such high water prices. Is it costing them more to provide us with
water?We think not! Ever since Gem State has taken over the water system rates have increased and this
new increase is outrageous just so they can add more dollars to their bottom line. If they can provide an
itemized list of their increased cost to provide water to us maybe we would be more willing to consider some
SORT of a rate increase.We all in our neighborhood take pride in keeping our yards green in the summer
which just adds to over all curb appeal but at the proposed rates it's going to be very difficult since we all live
on five acre lots and have large lawns to water.We shouldn't have to go without water because it's too
expensive when there is an abundance of it!We truly feel Gem State Water is being greedy and taking
advantage of us. It's your job to review this case and do the right thing.Just consider if this was happening to
you in your neighborhood how would you feel?Thank you in advance for taking the time to review our
grievance!"
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Name: Nate Cardoza
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 9:07PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:20343 n wandering pines rd
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gen state water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "There is current discussion going on about our local water company hiking up our rates over 70%.
This is crazy. How is this even an idea to entertain?Please don't let this be the case. I can understand some
sort of increase but come on,this is insane if it goes through. "
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Name: Don Ronningen
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 9:35PM
Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address: 1633 Garwood rd
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gem State
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: " The LACK of common since of this proposed increase is escaping me!!There has not been any
major disaster such an EARTHQUAKE,or the fires in Calif. No utility company down there is asking for such an
insane increase. Not even SCE who apparently started the fires. I have not heard any reason for such an
insane increase.
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The following comments were submitted via PUCWeb:
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Name: Earl Longden
Submission Time: Mar 24 2025 9:53AM
Email: rotorearlCc_gmail.com
Telephone:[phone]
Address:5853 W Coeur d'Alene Dr
Spirit Lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "RE: The recent letterto Gem State Customers dated Feb 28,2025 regardingthe rate increase.
The reasoning behind a 79%rate increase is flawed. Upon evaluation for purchase of the Spirit Lake East
Water Company several years ago, Northwest Natural Holdings had ample opportunity and resources to
evaluate the health and needed upgrades for the water system. After all,they are a major utility operator and
should understand infrastructure. Stating rising costs makes sense to a point given the current economy,
however upgrades to the system does not without some accountability.
The first thing we noticed when Gem State took over was an accounting system and website that didn't make
sense. Then closing our account and creating a new one,causing confusion. The next thing was the water
pressure dropped from 80 psi to 55 psi. While this is not an unacceptable pressure,80 psi is nicer for fire
protection given the fact we have no hydrants. The drop in water pressure also coincided with
selling/pumping our water South of highway 54 into other existing and newer neighborhoods. This was our
community's water system-created for us,sized for us, pressurized for us.
Upgrading the pumps may have been needed for us, but charging the existing customers for upgrades that
have little benefit to us, but big benefits to others is not acceptable.
Aging infrastructure is an issue,so what is the plan to further upgrade with a 79%increase? Will we have
hydrants for fire fighting? Do they plan to further weaken our system pressure and provide our water supply to
more communities?
Northwest Natural Holdings should have done their homework in the beginning,they simply did not. They
chose to sell our water to others, lessen our service,charge us more,and not even explain what the upgrades
will be.
There is no accountability in their proposed increase. This is simply steam-rolling their customers.
Until Gem State can effectively communicate the reasons for the rate increase,and provide accountability for
their previous rate increase and actions, I VOTE NO ON ANY GEM STATE WATER PROPOSED RATE INCREASE.
And I certainly VOTE NO ON 79%IN ONE INCREASE!
THIS IS NOT CALIFORNIA!!
Thank you for your time,
Ear[Longden
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Name:Charles Kies
Submission Time: Mar 24 2025 9:59AM
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Email:[e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:2088 W Boekel rd
Rathdrum, ID 83858
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "I am sending this response to the increase in water pricing by Gem State Water,for Diamond Bar
Estates. I feel that the increase is not reasonable and I am asking for the disapproval of the requested
increase.Thank you for your consideration.
Charles Kies
Diamond Bar Estates Resident"
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The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name:Carolyn McGinnis
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 11:08PM
Email: [e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:26077 N Silver Meadows Loop
Athol, ID 83801-9467
Name of Utility Company:Gem state
Case ID:
Comment: "ID are you seriously going to double the cost of water and lower the"free"water limit?It's already
horribly expensive. I will not be able to put in my yearly garden and pumpkin patch. I do that to supplement my
food source for my family. I built our home on 5 acres to live a hobby farm life.This is ridiculously excessive.
Everything at the grocers costs more. I have chickens for eggs. How will I support this property when I can't
water it?Idaho is truly going down the drain to line the pockets of the few. It's heartbreaking. "
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The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name:darrell richardson
Submission Time: Mar 24 2025 11:52AM
Email: dhricharCc_gmail.com
Telephone:[phone]
Address:32093 N Tahoe Dr
Spirit Lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem State
15

Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "Sir/Madam,
The rate request by Gem State is unreasonable and should not be granted.The last rate raise was 2 years ago.
Since then inflation has been 8%in 2022 and 4%in 2023 for a total(ignoring compounding)of 12%.Gem
State is asking for 79%. How are people supposed to afford increases like this?Neither fixed income nor
currently employed get raises like that. Further more,the last rate increase included money for a 1 time
purchase of a truck.While reasonable,that purchase was made and the rate increase associated with it now
just goes to increased profit.
We rely on the water both for gardening,which reduces our food bill and provides healthier food,and to
provide fire safety buffers around our buildings.So this exorbitant rate request has knock on ill effects on our
safety, health and ultimately insurance costs.
Ever since the water company was bought out by NW Natural Water they have engaged in a irresponsible and
abusive attempt to gouge their customers,with requests grossly exceeding inflation or capital investments.
Not only should this request be turned down, but they should be warned to stop attempts to abuse their
monopoly status."
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The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name: Rashid Aga
Submission Time: Mar 24 2025 1:01 PM
Email: [e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:32647 N Tahoe Dr
Spirit Lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem state water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "As a resident of the Spirit Lake East community, I do not agree with the proposals called out in
Case No.GSW-W-24-01. I can wrap my head around adjusting price to offset inflation and increased costs,
but a price increase of 79%in one go is absolutely outrageous!"
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The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name: Phil Dickson
Submission Time: Mar 24 2025 2:53PM
Email: [e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address:29854 N Silver Meadows Lp
Athol, ID 83845
Name of Utility Company:Gem Water
16

Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "Gem Water is requesting a general rate increase to become effective April 1 2025.They are
requesting this increase to cover current cost and maintenance.This was the same request they asked for a
year ago which was granted with a rate increase and decrease of of 15000 to 10000 Water base.Their request
is not warranted at this time.They are buying up small water companies that there last requests would cover
it's upgrading and operating costs.This present a great hardship for current customers"
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The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name:Stephen Mehlhoff
Submission Time: Mar 23 2025 6:24PM
Email: mehlhoffstephenCa)aol.com
Telephone:[phone]
Address:33405 N Sand Creek Dr
Spirit Lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company: Retired
Case ID: GSW-W-20-01
Comment: "
I write this in regard to the price increases levied against us customers of Gem State Water Company. I
moved to my current address in Spirit Lake East in 2013. The price then was, I believe,$25.55 for regular
monthly use and a surcharge for overages. I found them completely reasonable and fair. The cost of water
remained at this rate for ten to twelve years, I believe until a price increase recently. I was surprised when
they lowered the monthly standard allotment so that more water usage fell into the"overage"category which
was charged at a higher price.
I have heard that Gem State Water now proposes yet another price increase of substantial proportions. I
completely reject their proposal to reap more out of their system. The water delivery system is basically a
monopoly. We do not have access to an alternative system except haul in our own water in tanks. Granted,
any company is justified to earn profit from their infrastructure, but that only goes so far. It is our rain water
that they are selling us,coming from our rivers and streams that all came from our sky. Again,they have a
right to earn money against their expenses, but the fact that they do not own the rain and can still sell it back
to common man is a problem if they are allowed to charge anything they want in a single-provider closed
system.
I don't know if it is true, but I hear Gem State Water is now owned by an Oregon company which means selling
the water from Idaho streams and rivers back to us at hugely increased prices is odious. This smacks so
much of the"Robber Barons"of old.
I strongly urge the Public Utilities Commission to deny this rate increase promoted by Gem State Water
Company.
17

Sincerely
Stephen Mehlhoff
Spirit Lake East Resident"
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The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name:Angelo Martinez
Submission Time: Mar 24 2025 4:58PM
Email: martinez.angelo gmail.com
Telephone:[phone]
Address:33026 N.Tahoe Drive
Spirit lake, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem State Water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "I ask that you reject Gem State's request for an increase in the base charge.Speaking only for my
home,we have not at all increased our water usage or ever gone over the base limit. I don't see any reason
why we should have to pay more for less service. If the problem is that there has been pressure on Gem State
operations due to new construction in our county,then they can seek relief from the Federal Government or
put the cost of that pressure on the new developments:'
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The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name: Kevin McGee
Submission Time: Mar 24 2025 6:35PM
Email: [e-mail]
Telephone:[phone]
Address: 15071 W COEUR DALENE DR
SPIRIT LAKE, ID 83869
Name of Utility Company:Gem state water
Case ID: GSW-W-24-01
Comment: "Good afternoon ,Once again Gem state water is requesting a large increase. It breaks down to a
53%increase on the base rate,and a 139%increase on water use over the base rate, not to mention a 33%
reduction in the amount of the water included in the base rate(which was not disclosed in their letter to
customers dated Feb 28) .The last increase on GSW-W-22-01 was granted March 2023 which also reduced
the amount of water from 8000 to 7500 gallons.
We are also opposed to their request for consolidation of tariffs from different areas.Why should North
Idaho have to pay for improvements in Boise, much less in Moses Lake or other states?
18

Each area should be responsible for what they benefit from .
Gem states letter tries to justify the increase by claiming" prudent system improvements" . 1 would like to
know what they were, how much they cost, and where they were installed . In the same paragraph , "
replacing aging infrastructure"sounds like normal maintenance and depreciation of assets.
Making a basic need such as water prohibitive will have secondary consequences,such as the increase in
wildfire danger, home insurance rates and availability,and real estate values,as we have seen in other
Western states.
For the reasons stated above we are vehemently opposed to the appalling rate increase and Gem state goal
of eliminating our base water use as outlined on line 27 of their proposal.
Thank you for your help in protecting Idahoans,
Kevin&Cindy McGee
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V,ECEIVED
March 13, 2025
1`12 BAR 24 AM 12: 49
Idaho Public Utilities Commission
P.O. Box 83720 H0 P U 5 L I C
Boise, ID 83720-0074 I I oES COMMISSION
RE: Case No.: GSW-W-24-01
Gem State Water Company ("GSWC") Rate Application
Dear Commission:
I am writing to you in OPPOSITION to the GSWC's rate application. I live in the Bitterroot and
Rickel water district. GSWC is requesting a whopping 79% increase over current rates.
Apparently, it is not aware that many of the residents living in the Bitterroot and Rickel water
district are retirees or disabled people on fixed incomes. My mother (87 years old) and I
(disabled, non-working) have vim[modest incomes. A$330+/yearly increase in the delivery of
water to us will have a major negative financial impact on us, making it increasingly difficult to
make ends meet for food and essentials.
Additionally, we live in a forested area that has a high risk for wildfires during the summer
months. If this rate increase for water is approved,we will be forced to significantly curtail our
maintenance of the vegetation we use as a firebreak immediately surrounding our residence.
"This area will become tinder dry and will no longer act as fire protection in the event of a fire
breaking out (which has repeatedl"ccurred over the last few years due to lightening strikes).
Still further, I question the fundamental competency of any water district that has been run in
such a manner that requires a 791/lo increase in a single year) Wh6 can afford to absorb 79%
increases in any utility? Better long-term planning should be imposed on the GSWC so that it
recoups its so-called costs for improvements over a longer duration of time. It is my view that
the current rate is adequate for the GSWC to recoup its improvement costs over time. However,
if the commission determines that some increase is justified, then only allow a modest increase
that is reasonable and takes into consideration the public's ability to bear the additional expense
on fixed incomes. Nothing remotely close to a 79% increase can be explained or justified.
Thank you for your consideration.
Susan Burke
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