13-1228a. Board of public utilities; rate increases; notice; procedure. Prior to the effective date of an increase in any rate fixed pursuant to the authority of K.S.A. 13-1227 or 13-1228, the board of public utilities shall hold a public hearing for the purpose of presenting to the public the findings of the board supporting the reasonableness of the proposed rate increase. The findings shall include all pertinent financial data, supporting documents and analysis relating to the rate increase. Any affected utility customer may appear at the public hearing and present testimony of witnesses under oath, conduct cross-examination of employees and representatives of the board, present oral argument and file written briefs in support of such customer's position. Notice of the time and place of the public hearing and the amount of the proposed rate increase shall be given by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the city which owns the public utility at least 90 days prior to the public hearing. Not less than 90 days prior to the public hearing, the board shall make available for review by any affected customer during regular business hours the financial data, supporting documents and analysis in possession of the board which substantiates the findings supporting the proposed rate increase. The public hearing shall be conducted pursuant to procedures adopted by the board not inconsistent with the provisions of this section. A transcript shall be made of the public hearing and copies of the transcript shall be made available to the public upon payment of the cost thereof. The public hearing may be continued by the board from time to time and within five days after its completion, the board shall fix such rates as it deems justified pursuant to its findings and the evidence presented at the public hearing.

History: L. 1980, ch. 72, § 9; L. 1981, ch. 81, § 1; L. 1982, ch. 85, § 1; July 1.