Austin, Texas — February 25, 2026 — Fair Water Texas today applauded the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) for its vote on February 20 to implement interim rates in the Aqua Texas rate case, ensuring that any charges above the final approved rates will be refundable to customers. The decision provides critical financial protection to more than 100,000 Aqua Texas customer connections across the state.
During oral argument, the Commission heard compelling presentations from PUC Staff and intervenors urging the Commission to adopt interim rates through the final order. Fair Water Texas extends its appreciation to PUC Staff attorney Chelsea Doherty and intervenor attorney Lauren Ice, whose clear, persuasive arguments helped the Commission reach a decision grounded in fairness, statutory authority, and consumer protection.
PUC Staff emphasized the stakes clearly:
“If staff’s appeal is denied, Aqua will charge its proposed rates… These rates will not be subject to a refund… However, if staff’s appeal is granted, the interests of both Aqua and its ratepayers are protected.”
Attorney Lauren Ice representing the Watershed Association, Hays County and the City of Woodcreek reinforced the importance of interim rates as a tool to prevent unreasonable economic hardship:
“Interim rates are available to help protect customers… If we were not to allow interim rates after the effective date, that benefit would be significantly undermined.”
Commissioners also recognized the need to balance utility investment with consumer protection. Commissioner Kathleen Jackson captured the core issue succinctly:
“At the end of the day, the investor‑owned utilities exist because of the customer… I’m really struggling with the concept of potentially not being able to true up the cost because of some deadline or suspension period.”
Fair Water Texas Founder Joe Gimenez praised the Commission’s decision:
“This is an excellent outcome for ratepayers. Interim rates ensure that Aqua Texas cannot over‑collect from customers while the case is still being litigated. The Commission’s vote today protects families, seniors, and communities across the state from paying charges that may later be found unjustified.”
Gimenez added that the ruling reflects the Commission’s commitment to fairness and transparency:
“The PUC showed today that it takes seriously its responsibility to safeguard Texans from unreasonable economic burdens. We are grateful for the Commission’s careful consideration and for the strong advocacy from PUC Staff and intervenors.”
Gimenez also thanked intervenor Craig Hackler for appearing and making comments:
“Water is… along with food… a human necessity. And we’re looking to you, the PUC, to make sure that we have that necessity at a rate that isn’t going to break us… It is an absolute necessity. You don’t live without water.”
Fair Water Texas will continue working with intervenors statewide to ensure that the final rates approved in this case reflect accurate costs, responsible investment, and the public interest.
