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Utility staff move to recover billing shortfall after meter-programming error; two mobile home parks shut off for unpaid balances
Summary
Staff reported a billing-system programming error that underbilled a large industrial customer for up to several months and said the utility will seek to recoup amounts allowed under Indiana code; staff also reported two mobile home parks facing shutoffs for unpaid utility balances.
Utility staff told the board that a September billing-system change omitted one of two 6-inch meters for a large industrial customer, resulting in roughly half the expected billed volumes and a significant revenue shortfall.
Staff explained they identified the issue after reviewing billing patterns and recalculated what the customer's billing should have been for the affected period. Josh (billing staff) told the board the utility can pursue recovery under Indiana code for up to one year and that the customer has received the recalculated bills and is reviewing the matter internally; staff said they will work with the customer on a reasonable repayment schedule if necessary.
Separately, staff reported two mobile home parks with delinquent accounts. One park (about five tenants) was shut off Tuesday for an owner balance of roughly $10,000; a second park (about 16 tenants) faced a shutoff the next morning for an owner balance of around $3,000. Staff expressed concern for the tenants' welfare but said owners are responsible for the property balances and the utility cannot permit other ratepayers to carry those costs.
Board members asked staff to pursue recovery options with the large customer while working to avoid undue harm to residents of the mobile home parks. Staff also said they would continue discussions about payment terms and seek state assistance only as the rules allow.
