Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Utilities Water topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Spring Hill resident raises concern about rising water bills and asks about senior assistance
Summary
During public comment at the Nov. 3 Spring Hill meeting, resident Brenda James raised concerns about a higher November water bill and said she had been told water rates may rise about 25% over the next four years.
Brenda James, a Spring Hill resident and self‑identified senior citizen, told the board during public comment that her November water bill was $110 despite limited household usage and that she had been told water rates could increase about 25% over the next four years.
‘‘I spend more money on water the last 6 months than I did when I had my daughter raising her,’’ James said, asking whether Spring Hill gets its water from Columbia. The meeting transcript records a staff response clarifying that Spring Hill’s water ultimately comes from the Duck River; some raw water is drawn and treated by the city and some potable water is purchased from the Columbia‑Peoples Water System (CPWS).
James also asked whether the city offers any senior‑citizen program or rate‑freeze to help residents on fixed incomes. A board member asked staff to follow up with her after the meeting and to explain what state law allows regarding tax or rate freezes for seniors. The transcript records an exchange arranging a staff follow‑up and offers to meet in the lobby after the meeting.
No formal action or change to water rates was taken at the meeting. The comment was handled as a public‑comment item; staff acknowledged the concern and committed to follow up with the resident about existing programs and state limits on senior rate freezes.
