Berkeley Mayor Criticizes Gas Rate Hike During Virtual Hearing

BERKELEY, NJ — Mayor Carmen Amato and Ocean County Commissioner Joseph Vicari recently testified at a virtual public hearing against a proposed 25 percent increase on New Jersey Natural Gas bills.

According to New Jersey Natural Gas, their proposed rate increase will raise an average monthly bill to $141.17, up $28.07, or 24.8 percent, for a typical customer who uses 100 therms a month. If this increase is allowed by the Board of Public Utilities, that would amount to an approximate increase of $336.84 a year.

“This is the third time in the last six years NJNG has sought an increase in their base rates,” Amato said during a recent council meeting. “Six years ago they proposed a 24 percent increase in rates. Just three short years ago, they proposed another 19 percent increase in rates. To be back so soon for another large increase, is totally unacceptable.”

According to NJNG, the proposed rate adjustment would cover a number of improvements, including ongoing infrastructure replacement.

“This proposed increase is outrageous and unconscionable! Our seniors on fixed incomes and our hard working families deserve better,” Amato said.

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