The Policy and Finance Committee submits the following communication (September 22, 1999) from Councillor Howard Moscoe, North York Spadina:

I have been informed that Toronto Hydro has increased their rates affecting several residents across the greater Toronto area. Toronto Hydro has claimed it has remained revenue neutral and yet some residents have received increases and others decreases.

The reason provided for this is due to the amalgamation of 6 different rates and billing systems. Toronto Hydro also claims that direction was given by the City of Toronto to implement a new rate structure however I do not recall this matter coming before Council.

It is also understanding that residents were not given any advance notice of the increase and received their new inflated bill with an insert explaining the new rate structure. Furthermore, residents will be facing yet another increase in January 2000.

I am interested in having the following questions answered:

(1)Was this matter before Council or at Committee?

(2)Was the new rate structure reviewed and approved by Council or a Committee?

(3)Why were residents not given any advance notice?

(4)Have residents been advised of the proposed increase in January?

(5)What products or services are offered to increase energy efficiency, and in turn, offset the rate increase to residents as they claim?

I am requesting that this matter be placed as an agenda item at the next Policy and Finance Committee meeting being held on October 14, 1999 at 10:30 a.m. so that I can address the Committee on this matter.