The Public Utility Commission has scheduled meetings to take public comment on proposed adjustments to the 814 area code.
The commission fears that phone companies will run out of new numbers for customers as soon as 2012. The Office of Consumer Advocate for the PUC, though, isn’t convinced that numbers will run out.
“We encourage people to take part in the process,” said Jennifer Kocher, a spokeswoman for the PUC in Harrisburg. “It’s an opportunity for them to have a say and a role before the PUC. Come out for the public hearings.”
Hearings will be held in Erie, State College and the following locations. Administrative law Judge Katrina Dunderdale will conduct these hearings:
• In Altoona, 6 p.m. Feb. 22, Ramada Inn Ballroom C, 1 Sheraton Drive.
• In Richland Township, 6 p.m. Feb. 23, Solomon Run fire hall, 176 Mount Airy Drive.
• In Somerset, 6 p.m. March 4, Somerset Fire Company, 340 W. Union St., Somerset.
Customer testimony will become part of the record on which the PUC will issue its final decision. The PUC and state Office of Consumer Advocate offer tips on how to participate:
• Prepare what you are going to say beforehand. Though not required, you may want to write out your statement, which can be read.
• Bring copies. If you have a written statement you would like to give to the judge as evidence, please bring two copies for the court reporter and several copies for the other participants.
• Plan to be questioned. Parties in the case may want you to clarify something you said.
