PR-09-64 -- PSC Sets Intervention Deadline In Spectra Request For Competitive Classification In Some Of Its Exchanges

Contact: Kevin Kelly (573) 751-9300

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- OCTOBER 9, 2008

JEFFERSON CITY---Spectra Communications Group, LLC, d/b/a Spectra has filed an application with the Missouri Public Service Commission seeking competitive classification for all of its business services, other than exchange access service, in the exchanges of Aurora, Brunswick, Cameron, Everton, Golden City, Greenfield, Lawson, Mt. Vernon, Sarcoxie and Savannah.

If competitive status is granted, Spectra would no longer be subject to price or rate regulation by the PSC in the exchanges listed above.  Spectra would be permitted to raise or lower telephone rates at its own discretion, subject to the marketplace.

Applications to intervene and participate in this case must be filed no later than October 14, 2008, with the Secretary of the Missouri Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102.  Copies of the application should be sent to: Larry W. Dority, Fischer & Dority, P.C., 101 Madison Street, Suite 400, Jefferson City, Missouri 65101; and the Office of the Public Counsel, P.O. Box 2230, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-2230.

The Office of the Public Counsel is a separate state agency that represents the general public in matters before the commission.  Individual citizens wishing to comment should contact either the Office of the Public Counsel (Governor Office Building, 200 Madison Street, Suite 650, P.O. Box 2230, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-2230, telephone (866) 922-2959, e-mail opcservice@ded.mo.gov) or the Public Service Commission staff (P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, telephone 1-800-392-4211, e-mail pscinfo@psc.mo.gov).

The PSC staff is to file a recommendation or any objections to Spectra’s request by October 20, 2008.  In this case, state law requires the commission to issue its decision within 30 days of Spectra’s October 3, 2008, filing. 

-30-

Case No. IO-2009-0125