SPOKANE, Wash. — Avista customers could see an increase in their electricity bills of almost 14% next year if the company’s proposed rate plan is approved. The increases would continue gradually over the next four years, but many customers say the rising costs are becoming too much to handle.
“It’s insane. I don’t know how the normal working person is supposed to be able to continue to pay the bills and work, and you’re having to get two jobs to be able to survive,” said Avista customer Sue Cummings. She saw her utility bill for a rental property that has been vacant jump from $33 to more than $200.
Donita Humrich, owner of A Prep Kitchen, had a similar story. “My bill went from $221 to $500… in one month,” Humrich said…