I’m not sure if this is something other users will experience. But on my first water bill after Hurricane Helene, which I received Jan. 13, I got charged $336 for sewage treatment, making my water bill for January $475, something that I as an Uber driver receiving unemployment assistance won’t be able to pay.
I’m trying to call the Metropolitan Sewerage District to understand the charge, but I’m not able to connect with the person.
I don’t know if anyone else in your newspaper will experience the same, but it’s something to keep on the lookout for.
An update: MSD finally got back to me. Apparently the sewage is metered based on my water consumption, and since I’m a single person in the house, I questioned this abnormal spike, considering I had no leaks in the past months.
They contacted the water department and investigated my account and determined that my reading was incorrect. They will try to do a new reading of my meter and send a new bill.
I talked to a bunch of people, and they were all surprised by the amount they are paying on their water bills this cycle. Some people are paying over $500 total.
I’d still advise to call the agencies if someone believes they are being overcharged.
— Vitor Sa
Asheville
Before you comment
The comments section is here to provide a platform for civil dialogue on the issues we face together as a local community. Xpress is committed to offering this platform for all voices, but when the tone of the discussion gets nasty or strays off topic, we believe many people choose not to participate. Xpress editors are determined to moderate comments to ensure a constructive interchange is maintained. All comments judged not to be in keeping with the spirit of civil discourse will be removed and repeat violators will be banned. See here for our terms of service. Thank you for being part of this effort to promote respectful discussion.