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South Dakota Public Utilities Commission Meeting
Tuesday, September 27, 2005, at 9:30 A.M.
State Capitol Building, Room 412
Pierre, South Dakota
NOTE: If you wish to join this meeting by conference call, please contact the Commission at 605-773-3201 by 5:00 p.m. on September 26, 2005.
NOTE: Notice is further given to persons with disabilities that this Commission meeting is being held in a physically accessible place. If you have special needs, please notify the Commission and we will make all necessary arrangements.
AGENDA OF COMMISSION MEETING
Administration
1. Approval of the Minutes of the Commission Meetings Held on July 28, August 9, August 28, and August 31, 2005. (Staff: Tina Douglas.)
Consumer Reports
1. Status Report on Consumer Utility Inquiries and Complaints Received by the Commission. (Consumer Affairs: Deb Gregg)
Electric
1. EL05-014 In the Matter of the Joint Request for an Electric Service Territory Boundary Change between Butte Electric Cooperative, Inc. and Black Hills Power, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Michele Farris; Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On April 8, 2005, the Commission received a Request for Approval of an Electric Service Territory Agreement Jointly Submitted by Butte Electric Cooperative (Butte) and Black Hills Power (Black Hills). Butte and Black Hills have agreed to exchange four separate territorial areas. The exchanges include a proposed lift station at Exit 17 in Lawrence County, exchange of territory in the Sandstone Hills/Countryside Subdivision, exchange of territory due to Highway 85 line relocation and construction, and property owned by Kevin McKee. Both utilities support the request and state the exchange of territory would provide for an electric system that avoids unnecessary duplication of facilities and helps minimize operational challenges.
TODAY, shall the Commission Grant the Joint Request for an Electric Service Territory Boundary Change?
2. EL05-022 In the Matter of the Application by Otter Tail Power Company on behalf of Big Stone II Co-Owners for an Energy Conversion Facility Permit for the Construction of the Big Stone II Project. (Staff Analyst: Michele Farris; Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On July 21, 2005, the Commission received an Application for a Construction Permit for an Energy Conversion Facility from Otter Tail Power Company on behalf of the Project co-owners; Central Minnesota Municipal Power Agency; Great River Energy; Heartland Consumers Power District; Montana Dakota Utilities Co., a Division of MDU Resources Group, Inc.; Otter Tail Corporation d/b/a Otter Tail Power Company; Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency; and Western Minnesota Municipal Power Agency. The proposed Energy Conversion Facility is a nominal 600 MW coal-fired electric generating facility and associated facilities, which the Project co-owners have named Big Stone II, to be located on an industrial site adjacent to the existing Big Stone Plant unit I in Grant County, South Dakota. The intervention deadline is 60 days after the date the application is filed pursuant to ARSD 20:10:22:40. On August 25, 2005, Clean Water Action filed a Petition to Intervene. The South Dakota Chapter Sierra Club and Union of Concerned Scientists filed Applications for Party Status on September 16, 2005. On September 19, 2005, Applications for Party Status were filed by Mary Jo Stueve, Minnesotans for an Energy Efficient Economy, Izaak Walton League of America - Midwest Office, and the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy.
TODAY, shall the Commission Grant Party Status to Clean Water Action, the South Dakota Chapter Sierra Club, the Union of Concerned Scientists, Mary Jo Stueve, Minnesotans for an Energy Efficient Economy, the Izaak Walton League of America - Midwest Office, and the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy?
Natural Gas
1. NG05-011 In the Matter of the Filing by NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy for Approval of a Refund Plan. (Staff Analyst: Dave Jacobson; Staff Attorney: Sara Greff)
NorthWestern Corporation's gas tariff requires that for any refund in excess of $500,000, the company must submit a refund plan for review and approval by the Commission. In this filing, NorthWestern is requesting Commission approval of a refund plan for a $958,629.26 refund received from Northern Natural Gas Company. NorthWestern proposes to credit the Company's Adjustment Clause demand true-up in the sum of $879,025.41 and the Company's Adjustment Clause commodity true-up in the sum of $79,603.85. The filing states that by using these Adjustment Clause true-up mechanisms, the refund dollars will be returned to customers, with interest payable by the Company, over the next 12-month period through the normal purchased gas adjustment monthly filings process.
TODAY, shall the Commission Approve the Refund Plan?
2. NG05-012 In the Matter of the Filing by NorthWestern Energy for Approval of Tariff Revisions. (Staff Analyst: Bob Knadle; Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 30, 2005, NorthWestern Energy filed an application seeking approval of revisions to the fuel retention percentage in the gas transportation tariff. The proposed revisions would decrease the fuel retention percentage.
TODAY, shall the Commission Approve the Tariff Revisions?
Telecommunications
1. In the Matter of Establishing Switched Access Revenue Requirements in Dockets TC05-083, TC05-087, TC05-090, TC05-091, TC05-092, TC05-093, TC05-094, TC05- 095, TC05-097, TC05-098, TC05-099, and TC05-109.
TC05-083 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Alliance Communications Cooperative, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 21, 2005, Alliance Communications Cooperative, Inc., Garretson, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 14, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC05-087 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for City of Brookings Municipal Telephone Department. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 27, 2005, City of Brookings Municipal Telephone Department filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 14, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC05-090 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Midstate Communications, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 29, 2005, Midstate Communications, Inc., Kimball, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carrier Association. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC05-091 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Western Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 29, 2005, Western Telephone Company, Faulkton, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carrier Association. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 15, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC05-092 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Beresford Municipal Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 29, 2005, Beresford Municipal Telephone Company, Beresford, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carrier Association. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 15, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC05-093 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Roberts County Telephone Cooperative Association. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 29, 2005, Roberts County Telephone Cooperative Association, New Effington, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carrier Association. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 15, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC05-094 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for McCook Cooperative Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 29, 2005, McCook Cooperative Telephone Company filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carrier Association. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 15, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC05-095 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Kennebec Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 29, 2005, Kennebec Telephone Company, Kennebec, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carrier Association. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 15, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC05-097 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Santel Communications Cooperative, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 30, 2005, Santel Communications Cooperative, Inc., Woonsocket, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carrier Association. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 15, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC05-098 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Tri-County Telcom, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 30, 2005, Tri-County Telcom, Inc., Emery, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carrier Association. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 15, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC05-099 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Fort Randall Telephone Company and Mount Rushmore Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On July 1, 2005, Fort Randall Telephone Company and Mount Rushmore Telephone Company, Wagner and Keystone, South Dakota, respectively, filed a switched access cost study pursuant to the administrative rules established by the Commission. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 15, 2005. On September 19, 2005, an Answer of Fort Randall Telephone Company and Mount Rushmore Telephone Company to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and an Answer of Fort Randall Telephone Company and Mount Rushmore Telephone Company to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC05-109 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for West River Telecommunications Cooperative. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On July 21, 2005, West River Telecommunications Cooperative, Hazen, North Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carrier Association. In accordance with ARSD 20:10:27:10, West River Telecommunications Cooperative requests that the Commission allow the use of GVNW's cost study model as opposed to the Commission model for determining West River Telecommunications Cooperative's revenue requirement. On September 1, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 15, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TODAY, shall the Commission Grant Intervention to Midcontinent Communications, MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC, and AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc.?
2. TC05-096 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 29, 2005, the Local Exchange Carriers Association (LECA) filed revised switched access tariff pages. The purpose of these revisions is to implement changes in rates as necessitated by revisions in member companies' revenue requirements and access minutes of use. LECA requests that the revised rates be effective August 1, 2005. On August 30, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 14, 2005. On September 15, 2005, an Answer of LECA to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and an Answer of LECA to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TODAY, shall the Commission Grant Intervention to Midcontinent Communications, MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC, and AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc.? AND, pursuant to SDCL 49-31-12.4, shall the Commission Suspend the Operation of the Tariff for One-Hundred Twenty Days Beyond the Proposed Effective Date of the Tariff or allow the rates to go into effect subject to refund with interest?
3. In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirements in Dockets TC04-106, TC04-107, TC04-111, TC04-120, TC04-121, TC04-122, TC04- 123, TC04-124, and TC04-125
TC04-106 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Alliance Communications Cooperative, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 23, 2004, Alliance Communications Cooperative, Inc., Garretson, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 14, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC04-107 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Splitrock Properties, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 23, 2004, Splitrock Properties, Inc., Garretson, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-111 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Venture Communications Cooperative, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 25, 2004, Venture Communications Cooperative, Inc., Highmore, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-120 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Golden West Telecommunications Cooperative, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On July 1, 2004, Golden West Telecommunications Cooperative, Inc., Wall, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-121 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Vivian Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On July 1, 2004, Vivian Telephone Company, Wall, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-122 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Sioux Valley Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On July 1, 2004, Sioux Valley Telephone Company, Dell Rapids, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-123 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Bridgewater-Canistota Independent Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On July 1, 2004, Bridgewater-Canistota Independent Telephone Company, Hartford, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-124 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Union Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On July 1, 2004, Union Telephone Company, Hartford, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-125 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for West River Telecommunications Cooperative. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On July 1, 2004, West River Telecommunications Cooperative, Hazen, North Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. In accordance with ARSD 20:10:27:10, West River Telecommunications Cooperative requests that the Commission allow the use of GVNW's cost study model as opposed to the Commission model for determining West River Telecommunications Cooperative's revenue requirement. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TODAY, shall the Commission Grant Intervention to Midcontinent Communications; MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC; and AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc.?
4. In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirements in Dockets TC04-108, TC04-112, TC04-116, TC04-117, and TC04-118.
TC04-108 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Valley Telecommunications Cooperative Association, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 23, 2004, Valley Telecommunications Cooperative Association, Inc., Herried, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-112 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for City of Brookings Municipal Telephone Department. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 25, 2004, City of Brookings Municipal Telephone Department filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-116 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Santel Communications Cooperative, Inc. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 30, 2004, Santel Communications Cooperative, Inc., Woonsocket, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-117 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for James Valley Cooperative Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 30, 2004, James Valley Cooperative Telephone Company, Groton, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 14, 2005, James Valley Cooperative Telephone Company filed an Objection to MCI and Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TC04-118 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Kennebec Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 30, 2004, Kennebec Telephone Company, Kennebec, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TODAY, shall the Commission Grant Intervention to Midcontinent Communications; MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC; and AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc.?
5. In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirements in Dockets TC04-104 and TC04-114.
TC04-104 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Telephone Authority. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 22, 2004, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Telephone Authority, Eagle Butte, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCI Metro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 14, 2005. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TC04-114 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Revenue Requirement for Stockholm-Strandburg Telephone Company. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 29, 2004, Stockholm-Strandburg Telephone Co., Stockholm, South Dakota, filed a switched access cost study developing a revenue requirement and minutes of use that are included in the revenue requirement and minutes of use used to determine the switched access rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. On August 31, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC (MCI) filed Petitions for Intervention. On September 16, 2005, a Joint Answer of LEC's to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and a Joint Answer of LEC's to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 19, 2005.
TODAY, shall the Commission Grant Intervention to Midcontinent Communications; MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC; and AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc.?
6. TC04-119 In the Matter of the Establishment of Switched Access Rates for the Local Exchange Carriers Association. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On June 30, 2004, the Local Exchange Carriers Association (LECA) filed revised switched access tariff pages. The purpose of these revisions is to implement changes in rates as necessitated by revisions in member companies' revenue requirements and access minutes of use. LECA requests that the revised rates be effective August 1, 2004. On August 30, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) and MCI filed Petitions for Intervention. MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC filed a Petition for Intervention on August 31, 2005. AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc. (AT&T) filed a Petition for Intervention on September 14, 2005. On September 15, 2005, an Answer of LECA to Midcontinent's Petition to Intervene and an Answer of LECA to MCImetro Access Transmission Service, LLC's Petition were filed.
TODAY, shall the Commission Grant Intervention to Midcontinent Communications; MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC; and AT&T Communications of the Midwest, Inc.?
7. TC05-059 In the Matter of the Application of Pacific Centrex Services, Inc. for a Certificate of Authority to Provide Interexchange Telecommunications Services and Local Exchange Services in South Dakota. (Staff Analyst: Michele Farris, Staff Attorney: Sara Greff)
On April 21, 2005, Pacific Centrex Services, Inc. filed an application for commission approval for a Certificate of Authority to provide interexchange telecommunications services and local exchange services in South Dakota. The applicant intends to offer resold intrastate telecommunications services including MTS, in-WATS, out-WATS, and calling card services. The applicant also intends to offer resold local exchange services in the existing service areas of Qwest and any other relevant carriers. The applicant intends to provide basic residential exchange service, including custom and class features, adjunct provided features (voice messaging etc.), and residential ancillary services (911, directory listing, and directory assistance, etc.)
TODAY, shall the Commission Grant a Certificate of Authority to Pacific Centrex Services, Inc.?
8. TC05-086 In the Matter of the Filing by BullsEye Telecom, Inc. for Approval of its Intrastate Switched Access Tariff and for an Exemption from Developing Company Specific Cost-Based Switched Access Rates. (Staff Analyst: Keith Senger, Staff Attorney: Sara Greff)
On June 27, 2005, BullsEye Telecom, Inc. filed a petition asking for an exemption from developing company-specific cost-based switched access rates. The Applicant requests waivers of ARSD 20:10:27:07, 20:10:27:12 and 20:10:27:13. Applicant intends to mirror the switched access tariffed rates of Qwest.
TODAY, shall the Commission Approve the Intrastate Switched Access Tariff and Grant the Exemption from Developing Company Specific Cost-Based Switched Access Rates for BullsEye Telecom, Inc.?
9. In the Matter of the Request for Certification Regarding its Use of Federal Universal Service Support in dockets TC05-136, TC05-158, TC05-159, TC05-160, TC05-165, TC05-166, TC05-167, TC05-168, and TC05-169.
TC05-136 In the Matter of the Request of Citizens Telecommunications Company of Minnesota, LLC for Certification Regarding its Use of Federal Universal Service Support. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 4, 2005, Citizens Telecommunications Company of Minnesota, LLC (Citizens) provided information constituting Citizens' plan for the use of its federal universal service support and to otherwise verify that Citizens will use all federal universal service support received in a manner that is consistent with the federal universal service provisions of 47 U.S.C. Section 254.
TC05-158 In the Matter of the Request of WWC License LLC for Certification Regarding its Use of Federal Universal Service Support. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 17, 2005, WWC License LLC (WWC) provided information constituting WWC's plan for the use of its federal universal service support and to otherwise verify that WWC will use all federal universal service support received in a manner that is consistent with the federal universal service provisions of 47 U.S.C. Section 254.
TC05-159 In the Matter of the Request of Wireless Alliance, L.L.C. for Certification Regarding Its Use of Federal Universal Service Support (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 19, 2005, Wireless Alliance, L.L.C. (WALLC) provided information constituting WALLC's plan for the use of its federal universal service support and to otherwise verify that WALLC will use all federal universal service support received in a manner that is consistent with the federal universal service provisions of 47 U.S.C. Section 254.
TC05-160 In the Matter of the Request of RCC Minnesota, Inc. for Certification Regarding Its Use of Federal Universal Service Support (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 19, 2005, RCC Minnesota, Inc. (RCC) provided information constituting RCC's plan for the use of its federal universal service support and to otherwise verify that RCC will use all federal universal service support received in a manner that is consistent with the federal universal service provisions of 47 U.S.C. Section 254
TC05-165 In the Matter of the Request of Dickey Rural Communications, Inc. for Certification Regarding its Use of Federal Universal Service Support. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 30, 2005, Dickey Rural Communications, Inc. (Dickey Rural) provided information constituting Dickey Rural's plan for the use of its federal universal service support and to otherwise verify that Dickey Rural will use all federal universal service support received in a manner that is consistent with the federal universal service provisions of 47 U.S.C. Section 254.
TC05-166 In the Matter of the Request of Dickey Rural Telephone Cooperative for Certification Regarding its Use of Federal Universal Service Support. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 30, 2005, Dickey Rural Telephone Cooperative (Dickey Rural) provided information constituting Dickey Rural's plan for the use of its federal universal service support and to otherwise verify that Dickey Rural will use all federal universal service support received in a manner that is consistent with the federal universal service provisions of 47 U.S.C. Section 254.
TC05-167 In the Matter of the Request of RT Communications, Inc. for Certification Regarding its Use of Federal Universal Service Support. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 30, 2005, RT Communications, Inc. (RT) provided information constituting RT's plan for the use of its federal universal service support and to otherwise verify that RT will use all federal universal service support received in a manner that is consistent with the federal universal service provisions of 47 U.S.C. Section 254.
TC05-168 In the Matter of the Request of Midcontinent Communications for Certification Regarding its Use of Federal Universal Service Support. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 30, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midcontinent) provided information constituting Midcontinent's plan for the use of its federal universal service support and to otherwise verify that Midcontinent will use all federal universal service support received in a manner that is consistent with the federal universal service provisions of 47 U.S.C. Section 254.
TC05-169 In the Matter of the Request of Three River Telco for Certification Regarding its Use of Federal Universal Service Support. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 31, 2005, Three River Telco provided information constituting Three River Telco's plan for the use of its federal universal service support and to otherwise verify that Three River Telco will use all federal universal service support received in a manner that is consistent with the federal universal service provisions of 47 U.S.C. Section 254
TODAY, shall the Commission Provide a Certification to the Federal Communications Commission and to the Universal Service Administration Company Regarding the Plan for the Use of Federal Universal Services Support as Proposed in Each of the Above Dockets?
10. TC05-161 In the Matter of the Application of Midcontinent Communications for Approval to Expand its Certificate of Authority to Provide Local Exchange Service in the Wolsey Exchange of the Service Territory of Santel Communications Cooperative. (Staff Analyst: Harlan Best, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 26, 2005, Midcontinent Communications (Midcontinent) filed an application to amend its certificate of authority to provide local exchange service and long distance services in the Wolsey exchange of Santel Communications Cooperative, Inc. (Santel), a rural telecommunications carrier. In the Wolsey exchange Midcontinent will use Santel resold services for residential telephone services. In addition to providing local exchange services for commercial and residential customers, Midcontinent also will provide intrastate interexchange services for commercial and residential customers and interstate interexchange services for commercial and residential customers. Midcontinent has requested interconnection pursuant to 47 U.S.C. Section 251(f)(1)(A) with Santel, requests confidential treatment of its financial information, and requests a waiver from providing services to the entire Santel service area to provide local exchange service in the Wolsey exchange of Santel. The South Dakota Telecommunications Association filed a Petition to Intervene on September 16, 2005.
TODAY, shall the Commission Grant Intervention to the South Dakota Telecommunications Association?
11. TC05-164 In the Matter of the Filing by Qwest Corporation for Approval of a Revision to its Rapid City Locality Special Rate Area Map and Golden West Telecommunications Cooperative, Inc.'s New Underwood Exchange. (Staff Analyst: Bob Knadle, Staff Attorney: Karen Cremer)
On August 29, 2005, Qwest Corporation and Golden West Telecommunications filed an application seeking approval of amended certificates of authority to accommodate a developer's request that the territory now served by Qwest in the Rapid City area be served by Golden West Telecommunications in the New Underwood exchange area.
TODAY, shall the Commission Approve the Revisions?
Announcements
1. The next regularly scheduled Commission meeting will be held October 4, 2005, at 10:30 a.m. in Room 412, at Pierre, South Dakota.
2. Commission meetings are scheduled for November 1 and December 6, 2005.
3. A hearing in docket EL04-016 will be held November 2 - 4, 2005, in Room 412, State Capitol Building, Pierre. The hearing will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 2, 2005.
4. A hearing in docket CT05-001 will be held November 7 - 9, 2005, in Room 412, State Capitol Building, Pierre. The hearing will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 7, 2005.
_____________________
Heather K. Forney
Deputy Executive Director
heather.forney@state.sd.us
September 21, 2005
