Water bill shock raises concerns over meter accuracy

In a recent government meeting, a council member expressed significant concerns regarding a staggering 200% increase in water rates that residents have experienced. The councilor, who lives alone with a dog, highlighted their personal shock upon receiving the bill, which revealed a usage of 35,000 gallons—far exceeding the average of 8,300 gallons per person per day. This prompted a deeper investigation into water usage patterns and potential issues with the metering system.

The councilor noted that the rate increase has illuminated the potential for widespread water misuse, leaks, or a lack of awareness among residents regarding their consumption. They emphasized that many residents may not realize they are exceeding average usage levels, particularly those with older meters that may not be calibrated correctly. The councilor raised doubts about the accuracy of the current metering system, citing concerns over \"junk meters\" and the fact that the company responsible for their installation is no longer in business.

During the discussion, it was revealed that the water bills sent out on July 1 did not reflect the correct rates as established by a recent ordinance. The councilor pointed out discrepancies in the rates charged, noting that the bills included incorrect figures for both standard and excessive usage. For instance, the rate for 4,000 gallons was billed at $3.22 instead of the correct $2.83, and the rate for usage over 20,000 gallons was incorrectly set at $6.44 instead of $5.66.

The councilor concluded by stressing the need for a thorough review of the water billing system to ensure accuracy and fairness, particularly in light of the recent rate increases. They called for immediate action to rectify the billing errors and to provide residents with clear information about their water usage and the associated costs. The council's commitment to addressing these issues will be crucial in restoring public confidence in the water management system.