Two public hearings this month will give people a chance to formally protest rate increases proposed by Peoples Natural Gas Co.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission froze additional fees the natural gas company planned to implement March 29. Those increases are under review by the PUC and elements, such as public input, are being considered in its investigation.

Public hearings are scheduled at 6 p.m., Tuesday at the Richland Township Fireman's Banquet Hall, 1321 Scalp Ave., Johnstown, and at 6 p.m. April 24 at the Community College of Allegheny County's Boyce Campus Performance Hall, 595 Beatty Road, Monroeville.

Peoples service is widespread throughout Butler County, but not all customers are included in this rate hike.

This is an excerpt — pick up Wednesday's Butler Eagle if you would be affected by the proposed increase.