The Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) voted unanimously this past Tuesday to launch an investigation into the Casco Bay Ferry’s latest passenger rate hikes.
This comes after 50 islanders submitted a petition to the PUC raising concerns that the increased prices would have a negative impact on low- and middle-income families, as well as seniors and students.
In acknowledging their petition, the PUC noted that ratepayers raised “sufficient concerns regarding the affordability of ferry travel.”
Mary Lou Wendell, the lead petitioner, argued that the ferry’s board of directors has not been acting in the best interest of noncommuting Peaks Island residents, according to Maine Public.
“Now the PUC filing an investigation into their rulings and behavior. It’s shameful. It should be an embarrassment for them,” Wendell said.
Ben Dinsmore, general manager of Casco Bay Lines, has pointed towards a grant program that will allow the service to offer aid to residents with ferry tickets and passes beginning in July.
“The Peaks Island Tax and Energy Assistance Program now has $7,000 annually to support annual passes for those on the island that have trouble with the affordability,” Dinsmore said.
The Office of the Public Advocate (OPA) has reportedly expressed support for looking into the ferry service’s pricing.
Although the OPA recommended suspending rate hikes during the investigation, the PUC declined to do so. The new, increased rates are set to take effect Saturday.
