20040319Petition I from Silver Valley.pdf

FROM : Panasan i c PPF MRR. 12. 21211214 4:3121RM P 1
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March 12,2004
( S'c.-e. ()f+;~...(t\-\Public Utilities Commission
&.s-(. r;l~ fO,-Boise, IdahoDear Sirs, (~fr
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Following is a petition protesting Avista s proposed rate increase. We have gathered all of these
signatures within the last three days. If time had allowed, we could have had many, many more.
We talked to small business owners who are barely making it and would have to close their doorsif the increase goes into effect. Cafe owners told us that their utility bills are so high that they can
survive. The Silver Valley is a very depressed valley and this would be like someone throwing a
rock in front of the door. We are also trying to attract new businesses to the area and the
proposed rate increase would be a big detriment in that effort We, in northern Idaho, cannot
compete with southern Idaho and Boise on utilities fer businesses.
Also, the Silver Valley consists of a high percentage of senior citizens. Many seniors shared with
us that. with the high oost of health care, precriptions and food, they would be forced out of their
homes which is extremely sad when you take into account that most of these individuals have
lived in the same homes most of their lives. When we listened.to their stories we wanted to cry.
Thank you for taking taking the time to review this petition and please give this your kindest
consideration and understand what impact the rate increase will have on the Silver Valley.
Sincerely.
Eileen Wilhelm
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