The Washington state Attorney General’s Office announced today that its public counsel section has decided to challenge the 18 percent rate hike that Avista Utilities has asked from the state Utilities and Transportation Commission.

Not only that, if all the counsel’s recommendations were adopted by the UTC, it would result in a reduction for Avista.

That’s the essence of the announcement, although it goes into a lot more detail.  I’m comfortable predicting this action will be popular in Spokane, but here’s a chance to weigh in on the topic, regardless of which side your favor.