Dyson Calls SMECORate Hike Exorbitant 

ANNAPOLIS --- Senator Roy Dyson called on SMECO President Joe Slater to modify proposed SMECO electric rates approved by the Public Service Commission, calling the rate hikes of 23 percent "exhorbitant".

In a letter to Slater, Dyson said that SMECO doesn't have to increase the rates the full amount of what has been approved by the PSC and called the proposed rates outrageous. 

SMECO recently attempted to turn over a large parcel of land for a new baseball stadium in Hughesville, land which could have been sold with the proceeds used to hold down rates paid by cooperative members.

"I implore you to do the right thing and reconsider the rate increases that you are currently planning," wrote Senator Dyson to Slater.   "There are an alarming number of people who simply cannot afford these outrageous rate hikes. SMECO has always been a good neighbor in the Southern Maryland community. I hope you continue to be one and re-think this terrible idea of raising your rates to the point where the community suffers."