MACKINAC ISLAND (AP) -- The Michigan Public Service Commission has begun an investigation and scheduled hearings regarding rates, fares, charges, and tariffs levied by ferry companies serving Mackinac Island, St. Ignace, and Mackinaw City.

The commission said that officials from Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry, Arnold Transit Co., Star Line, and Northern Ferry are expected to attend a February 22 pre-hearing conference in Lansing.

Public hearings also will be held at Mackinac Island, St. Ignace, and Mackinac City.

The hearings stem from a February 4 complaint filed by Shepler's, seeking emergency and interim relief.

Shepler's, Arnold Transit Company, and Star Line last November received two-year franchises to serve the island community located between the two peninsulas of Michigan.

(Copyright ©2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)