FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) - People will have a chance to weigh in on Indiana Michigan Power's proposed rate hike.

I&M said the increase is needed to upgrade technology to help improve services, such as new smart meters.

The utility is proposing to phase in an increase, up to an average of $21 a month.

The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor is hosting three meetings in July.

Those hearings are:

Thursday, July 11, 2019 in South Bend: South Bend Century Center, Recital Hall, 120 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.

Monday, July 15, 2019 in Muncie: Ball State University, L.A. Pittenger Student Center, Cardinal Hall B, 2000 W. University Ave.

Tuesday, July 16, 2019 in Fort Wayne: Purdue University Fort Wayne, Walb Union Classic Ballroom, 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd.

Customers can submit written comments for the case record may do so via the OUCC's website at www.in.gov/oucc/2361.htm, by email at uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov, or by mail at:

Consumer Services Staff
Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor
115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South
Indianapolis, IN 46204