Residents of Morgantown expressed growing frustration over escalating water bills and the perceived inadequacies of the water service provided by Great River, a private company that recently acquired the local water system. During a recent government meeting, community members detailed their experiences with rising costs, which have surged from $35 to $107.99, and raised concerns about the quality of service, including issues with water pressure and contamination.

One resident highlighted that the current billing system is flawed, stating, \"The system that they bought is not working properly,\" and emphasized that many residents, particularly those on fixed incomes, are struggling to afford their water bills. The sentiment was echoed by others in attendance, who questioned how a private company could impose such high rates without adequate oversight.

The board of supervisors acknowledged their limited authority over private companies, noting that pricing is regulated by the Public Service Commission. However, they expressed solidarity with the residents' concerns and discussed the possibility of gathering a petition to address the issue more formally. The board plans to reach out to Great River and the Public Service Commission to request a meeting where residents can voice their grievances directly.

Residents also raised concerns about the lack of transparency regarding rate increases, with some claiming they were not informed of any proposed hikes. The board's attorney confirmed that they would seek answers from Great River and ensure that residents have the opportunity to participate in future discussions.

The meeting underscored the community's urgent need for a reliable water service and fair pricing, as residents continue to grapple with the financial burden of their water bills. The board's commitment to addressing these issues reflects a growing awareness of the challenges faced by the community and the importance of holding service providers accountable.