Residents press council over water shutoffs and inconsistent fees

Multiple Compton residents used the public‑comment period on Nov. 4 to describe problems with the city’s water billing and customer service policies, saying unexpected shutoffs, inconsistent fees and poor communication are harming households.

Dion Powell said he woke up without water after making a $110 partial payment two days earlier and that a payment plan he believed he had in place did not prevent the shutoff. “I pay my bill every time I get paid,” Powell said, adding that his disability income constrains his ability to catch up and that field staff treated him rudely when he sought help. Council staff obtained his contact information and the city said staff would follow up.

Other speakers raised the mechanics and size of reconnection or administrative fees. Jacqueline Nelson said the bill includes a charge of about $40 for water that “sits in the pipes” and described being asked for an extra $61 because her account was in the process of being shut off; she said different bills this year listed $50 or $61 fees and asked staff to explain the discrepancy. Maria (Latino Chamber representative) and others called for the water department to be more visible and accountable and urged council to help residents who pay on time but still receive late charges.

Council members acknowledged the complaints and asked the city manager’s office to provide information and follow up. Council member Doohart asked staff to have the complainants’ contact information so staff could assist directly. The council did not take a formal action on utilities during the meeting but several members requested a staff report and additional detail about fees and reconnection procedures.