20260203Decision Memo.pdf

DECISION MEMORANDUM
TO: COMMISSIONER LODGE
COMMISSIONER HAMMOND
COMMISSIONER HARDIE
COMMISSION SECRETARY
COMMISSION STAFF
LEGAL
FROM: ERIKA K. MELANSON
DEPUTY ATTORNEY GENERAL
DATE: FEBRUARY 3, 2026
SUBJECT: IN THE MATTER OF THE INVESTIGATION INTO BEAR CLAW WATER
SYSTEM, LLC'S RATES AND CHARGES FOR SERVICE; CASE NO. BCW-
W-25-02.
On July 14, 2025, Bear Claw Water System, LLC ("Company") applied to the Idaho Public
Utilities Commission ("Commission")requesting a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity
("CPCN") to provide water service within the Bear Claw Subdivision in Bonner County, near Clark
Fork, Idaho.
On October 9, 2025, the Commission issued Order No. 36799, granting the Company's
request for a CPCN and directing Commission Staff("Staff') to open a separate docket to evaluate
whether the Company's interim rates are fair,just, and reasonable.
Case No. BCW-W-25-02 was opened on October 9, 2025 to investigate the rates and charges
of the Company.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Commission issue a Notice of Application and Notice of Modified
Procedure, establishing a February 26, 2026, public comment deadline, and a March 5, 2026, reply
comment deadline.
COMMISSION DECISION
Does the Commission wish to issue a Notice of Application and Notice of Modified
Procedure, establishing a February 26, 2026,public comment deadline, and a March 5, 2026, reply
comment deadline?
OAA_ _
Eri{a K. Melanson
Deputy Attorney General
I:\Legal\WATER\EC W-W-25-02_investigation\dec 1_em.docx
DECISION MEMORANDUM I