In a recent meeting of the Adams County Board of Supervisors, local resident David Huber raised significant concerns regarding the rising water bills and service quality under Great River Utilities, which acquired the Oakland Water Works system in July 2021. Huber, a former owner of the water system, reported that his average water and sewer bill has surged from $50.40 to $107.90, with further rate increases being proposed.

Huber contested claims made by Great River Utilities representatives that the water meters were unreliable and that previous owners had not been reading them. He asserted that all connections had functioning meters at the time of the sale and that he personally assisted in reading the meters for two months post-acquisition. He emphasized that he consistently monitored the meters every month, regardless of weather conditions.

A key point of contention raised by Huber was the uniform pricing structure implemented by Great River Utilities, which charges all customers the same rate regardless of their water usage. He highlighted the inequity of a retired individual on a fixed income paying the same rate as a larger family with higher consumption, including those with swimming pools.

Additionally, Huber expressed concerns about the lack of operational oversight, noting that when he managed the system, an operator was required to be nearby to address customer issues promptly. He criticized the current service model, suggesting that it fails to meet the needs of the community.

The meeting underscored growing frustrations among residents regarding water service management and pricing, prompting calls for greater accountability and transparency from Great River Utilities.