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Resident says meter-numbering error led to large retroactive water bill; staff offers repayment plan
Summary
Resident Marcy Mason told the Kearney Board of Aldermen that a meter replacement and a digit-entry error left months of zero usage on her bills; city staff said system data show 14,300 gallons were used and offered to spread the corrected $189.53 balance over 12 months.
Mayor called resident Marcy Mason to the podium after the board added a personal appearance to the agenda. "I am Marcy Mason from East Kearney," she said, and then told the board, "I appear to you tonight to inform you of a great mistake by water department, and they want me to pay for their mistake." Mason presented bank records and a five-page set of meter readings she received by email, saying the bills she paid historically ran about $42–$53 per month but a city printout showed 14,300 gallons over six months.
City Administrator Sheila explained how the city's systems handle meter readings: "The city has a system called Census that records the meter readings. That system, those meter readings then get transferred and imported into the billing system which is called Koozie." Sheila said an extra digit entered for the replacement meter caused the billing system to miss the correct meter and not charge usage. After an internal audit, staff recalculated the account and reported "Her charges are $189.53," which includes the corrected consumption and existing monthly charges. Staff told the board they had offered Mason a plan to pay the balance over the next 12 months while keeping current bills current.
Aldermen asked staff to meet with Mason in person and verify whether she qualifies for any senior discount. Alderman Leaming urged a one-on-one meeting so the resident could "understand that realistically, she only owes a $140, not $313." The mayor asked staff to prepare a short report on corrective actions and system checks to reduce similar errors in the future. City staff said they are auditing accounts as time allows and correcting prior setup mistakes.
