BPU presents rate hearing process overview

by William Crum

The Board of Public Utilities tonight discussed the rate hearing process.

Board members heard a presentation by Lori Austin on what needs to be done if they decide they want to raise rates.

Certain restrictions are in place concerning the steps the board needs to take if it wants to raise rates.

Currently, there has been no action to increase rates. The board will make the final decision on whether rates are raised.

U.S. attorney general commemorates Capt. Melton

U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch today sent condolences to Capt. Robert D. Melton’s family and loved ones.

Capt. Melton, a member of the Kansas City, Kan., Police Department, died in the line of duty on Tuesday, July 19. Lynch made her remarks at a news conference in Washington, D.C.

“I want to take a moment to mention Captain Robert Melton – a 17-year veteran of the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department who was shot and killed in the line of duty yesterday while responding to a call about a drive-by shooting,” Lynch said today. “Our hearts go out to Captain Melton’s family and loved ones, and to all those who are suffering in this time of grief.

“This devastating loss is yet another painful reminder that our courageous officers put their lives on the line every day in order to serve the public – not only in times of heightened tensions or during ambush scenarios, but always. The Department of Justice is committed to doing all we can to support our officers at every level and to keep them safe from harm – and we will continue to advance that work and to keep that promise even as we mourn the loss of our fallen colleague and friend.“

Preliminary hearing for Ayers set for November

A Wyandotte County District Court judge today set the preliminary hearing for Curtis Ayers, charged with capital murder in the slaying of Detective Brad Lancaster, for Nov. 21-23.

At a scheduling hearing today in Wyandotte County District Court, District Attorney Jerome A. Gorman appeared on behalf of the state.

Kansas City, Kan., Detective Brad Lancaster was killed in a shooting near the Hollywood Casino on May 9, 2016.