Island ranchers, businesses oppose hike to shipping rates Young Brothers wants increase bump of 34%
DAKOTA GROSSMAN dgrossman@mauinews.com
WAILUKU — Testifiers on Tuesday night were strongly opposed to Young Brothers’ request for a general rate increase of 34 percent, saying it would have “astronomical impacts” on farming communities and local businesses.
During a public hearing before the state Public Utilities Commission that drew more than 40 people to the Velma McWayne Santos Community Center, 12 Maui County residents and business owners spoke for an hour on how the burdens of a price hike would fall on the community.
“We are writing to oppose Young Brothers’ proposal to increase shipping rates,” said James Gomes, vice president of Hawaii Cattlemen’s Council Inc. “We appreciate Young Brothers being open to communication in finding solutions, but there are still many concerns we have regarding proficiency for customer service. A price increase is not ideal in most situations.”
