RATE HIKES WANTED S.S.

THE COMPANY THAT PROVIDES MUCH OF THE WATER FOR SALINAS IS REQUESTING A RATE INCREASE OF NEARLY 50 PERCENT FOR NEXT YEAR. CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE IS ASKING THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION FOR THE RATE HIKE, SO THEY CAN COVER HIGHER COSTS (AND WATER SYSTEM UPGRADES). IF APPROVED THAT INCREASE WOULD NOT GO INTO EFFECT FOR AT LEAST 9 MONTHS.