Categorization, Need for Hearings, Ex Parte Rules, and Designation of Principal Hearing Officer

No party has disputed the Commission's preliminary categorization of this proceeding, and I affirm the preliminary categorization of ratesetting and the need for hearing. The ex parte rules as set forth in Rule 7(c) and § 1701.3(c) apply.

In a ratesetting proceeding, Rule 5(k)(2) defines the presiding officer as the principal hearing officer designated as such by the assigned Commissioner prior to the first hearing in the proceeding. I have designated Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Charlotte TerKeurst as the principal hearing officer. The provisions of § 1701.3(a) apply.