Reader Questions Electric Department’s ‘Inconsistent Billing Practices’

Dear Editor,

To the man, Tommy Reynolds, acting as Mayor of Water Valley. I am writing this letter in honor and faith that you will do the just thing for the people of Water Valley with regards to the unfair billing practices of the city’s electric department.

A letter signed by Crystal Floyd was read at the city meeting on Sept. 3. In that letter, Crystal provided a “justifiable” reason for “General Service” (G.S.) or “Commercial Rate” bill for my rental property.

Neither you or the former mayor, Gray, have provided a legitimate reason for those who are being billed the same “G.S. or Commercial” rates simply for having an extra meter in their name. I have come to the conclusion that there is no explanation for this flip-flop billing practice except for the fact that a person has more than one meter in their name and it cannot be justified.

I personally do not have a problem being billed “Commercial Rates” or Higher Rates,” however you want to call it. I am simply asking for consistency by not allowing others who own rentals to transfer the utility bill into another person’s name to avoid paying these higher rates. If you plan to continue to charge these rates.

I am deeply concerned that you, acting as Mayor, are encouraging immoral practices in the heart of men and women in this town by encouraging the unethical choice to transfer rental home bills in someone’s name other than the owner to avoid paying these higher rates. The fact that others are being charged “G.S. Commercial Rates” for having a shed, detached garage or any extra metered structure is inconsistent.

Why are non-incoming earning residential customers being billed higher rates for the extra meter? You stated in the Sept. 3rd meeting that you wish for fairness for people across the board. I am asking you to honor the oath you took to uphold the U.S. Constitution and the state constitution which you have sworn by God to do. I am asking for consistent utility practices for all men and women of Water Valley and Yalobusha County, especially for those who do not own income producing homes.

If you wish to continues these unfair billing practices which are not consistent throughout the county, please inform future residents of your billing practices. Please ask the utility company to provide transparency and full disclosure and not blame the higher rates on faulty appliances. By refusing to provide the real explanation for the higher rates on rentals in particular. A verbal explanation would be helpful for people like me who have never heard of this flip-flop billing (increased rates when rental units are empty) and please provide some explanation for those being billed these costly rates on non-rental properties.

Sincerely
Elizabeth Smith
Calhoun Street