CITIZEN POWER ALLIANCE

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- A natural-gas pipeline company has been given a hearing on its request to become a public utility, a legal status that could enable it to obtain property through eminent domain.

The proceeding before Public Utility Commission Administrative Law Judge Susan Colwell ended Monday with the parties having to file a "nonunanimous settlement" in a few weeks.

Laser Northeast Gathering LLC wants to build and operate the Pennsylvania portion of a roughly 30-mile pipeline to link Marcellus Shale natural gas wells in northeastern Pennsylvania and a pipeline in Broome County, N.Y.

PUC spokeswoman Jennifer Kocher says those who favor the settlement will file statements in support, while opponents will file briefs on whatever issues remain. A final decision is expected sometime next year.