The Mid-Hudson News Network and Daily Freeman are reporting customers and elected officials Tue., Oct. 3, expressed unanimous concerns about proposed rate increases in the delivery charge rates for gas and electricity requested by Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. Central Hudson has asked the state Public Service Commission to approve rate increases of 13.5 percent for electricity and 18.5 percent for natural gas. The public hearing Tuesday was held at Poughkeepsie Town Hall, one of six to be held in the region this month. The customers who attended the hearing opposed the proposed rate hikes. Dutchess County Legislator Joel Tyner, Democrat of Clinton, blasted the utility, saying it is “beyond obscene and atrocious” for Central Hudson to want more in profit. Jonathan Bix, executive director of Nobody Leaves Mid-Hudson, said, "...The rate hike will force many people to choose between food and utilities, healthcare and utilities.” Donna West, a Central Hudson customer, said, “I’m forced to leave my home with my children and go somewhere else until I can save up the money to pay Central Hudson....” The remaining PSC public hearings will be held at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Oct. 10 at Kingston City Hall and Oct. 16 at Newburgh Town Hall. Read the full story in the Daily Freeman.