The city switched to a new utility billing system in March. Five months later, another round of residents says their August bills look unusually high, and they are waiting on the results of an independent audit.
Ryan Freeman is one of them. He made an $800 payment right before his family left on vacation. His August bill showed 59,000 gallons consumed. Freeman said August was extremely hot and that his house holds eight people and two dogs, including six kids. He understands his household uses a lot of water, but the number still surprised him.
Simpson, who represents Place 4, said residents have a good point. "I'm frustrated because we don't seem to be getting answers now," he said.
For anyone staring at a bill that looks off, Simpson wants the paperwork so he can better understand the complaints. He also said the city works with people on payment plans, and he is hearing that a lot of people are using them. The audit carries the bigger hope. "We're paying an expert to look at this," Simpson said.
The answer residents want still sits with an outside expert.