The Franklin PUD Commission has scheduled six meetings at which the public can learn about proposed rate increases and make comments.

The commission is considering raising electric rates by either 4.9 percent or 8 percent in May.

If the 4.9 percent option is picked, another rate increase of possibly about the same amount would be likely in 2014. If the 8 percent option is picked, there's a good chance no rate increase would be needed in 2014, according to the public utility district staff.

As part of the overall 4.9 percent or 8 percent rate hike, the basic service charge for residences would be increased by $10 to $21.45 a month. The current charge of $11.45 does not cover the PUD's cost of having service available or providing service to residences that use no or little electricity.

Meetings will be held at the Franklin PUD auditorium at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 19 and 21 and at 1 p.m. Feb. 26 and March 26. A Spanish interpreter will be at the Feb. 19 and 21 meetings. The PUD auditorium is at 1411 W. Clark St.

A Connell meeting will be held at Michael Jay's Restaurant meeting room, 710 S. Columbia Ave., at 4:30 p.m. Feb. 27.

Kahlotus area residents may attend a meeting at 7 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Kahlotus school cafeteria.