published: Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Billed for using no water

Editor:

I write to you so that you will perhaps print this letter in your paper showing the unfairness of the water department in Crystal Lake located in Avon Park.

I am a resident in that area and have not occupied my home for the past month for personal reasons. I have received a water bill for that month for $53.08 showing a usage of "0" water. I have contacted the mayor regarding this bill, but to no avail. I called the water department only to be told that "it is still active," whatever that means.

Why should I or anyone else with a "0" water usage have to pay for water that was not used? If I have the water turned off for that period of time they will charge me $30 or more to have it turned back on when I return.

This, in my estimation, is highway robbery or extortion and deliberately taking advantage of the residents. We are all at the mercy of all utility companies when they conduct business like this.

We must all remember this is the time of voting for officers in the City of Avon Park or in any city in which we reside. We should not allow the robbery of its citizens by the utilities company or other services provided where our taxes pay for it.

Allan Noseworthy

Sarasota