William J. Kemble is reporting in the Daily Freeman the state Public Service Commission has scheduled public hearings on a Central Hudson electric and natural gas delivery rate increase proposal. Utility officials are seeking the increases to make infrastructure improvements. Included would be flood protection at electric substations near the Hudson River, transmission lines under the river, use of larger poles and shorter spans to make lines more resilient during storms, and replacing wooden poles with steel poles, and relocating gas lines. The sessions are planned for March 10 in the Poughkeepsie Common Council chambers at Civic Center Plaza, and March 12 at Kingston City Hall. Read the full story in the Daily Freeman.