Larry Rulison is reporting in the Times Union the state Public Service Commission will hold two public hearings next week on Central Hudson Gas and Electric's proposed $61 million gas and electric rate increase. Central Hudson serves parts of Albany, Columbia and Greene counties. Each hearing will allow for a one-hour informational session followed by a session when the public can offer comment on the record about the proposed increase. The public hearings will be held 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., Tue., Oct. 10, at Kingston City Hall, 420 Broadway, Kingston.