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Elder resident urges council to review high water bills and improve customer outreach
Summary
At the Nov. 13 meeting a longtime Clute resident, Seveira Salinas Lada, described a $129 water bill she said she could not afford; council agreed to offer meter checks and follow up on billing and leak investigations.
Clute — During public comment on Nov. 13, longtime Clute resident Seveira Salinas Lada told the City Council her water bill rose to $129 and that she could not afford the increase, calling on the city to consider hardship for elders and low‑income residents.
Salinas Lada said she had lived in Clute since 1959 and that she had not received clear notice of the rate increase. “There is no way I have spent $129 on water,” she said. City staff and council members offered to send a technician to check the meter and inspect for leaks. Councilmember Eric Agler suggested the meter be checked immediately; staff said any resident who believes their bill is excessive can request a meter check and staff would follow up.
Salinas Lada also raised other quality‑of‑life concerns — road repair on Harvey Street, mosquito‑festival value, and municipal responsiveness — asking for clearer communication and assistance for seniors.
Council acknowledged the hardship and directed staff to inspect meters and report findings back to affected residents. The city did not take immediate policy action on rates at the meeting; staff said the city will investigate reported individual billing issues and is available to check meters for residents who request it.
