I understand that with all of the changes in the utility industry, these are uncertain times. Through these changes we are striving to structure an environment that offers more benefits, through choice, in your utility services. Please feel free to contact the OCC if you have questions about any of these changes. We can assist you in understanding how the changing utility environment will impact you. The recent increase in advertising of dial-around services has caused some confusion among consumers.
Many ads fail to mention monthly fees, minimum call lengths and other hidden charges.
Charges from the 10-10 company will appear on a consumer's monthly telephone bill. It's important to understand that many of the companies' discounts are based upon the major long-distance companies' highest rates, not the rates consumers might pay in discounted calling plans. The Ohio Consumers' Counsel recently reached an agreement with GTE North that will reduce local telephone bills. Currently, customers pay 16 cents per-minute for calls placed during the day. GTE will reduce the cost for calls placed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to 13 cents per-minute.