Problems due to software switch, city says
The City of Cumby is switching over to a new water billing software, according to the city, although some citizens have reported problems.
“The City of Cumby has switched over to AVR billing,” city council member Julie Isham Morris wrote on the city’s social media on July 2.
“During this process the company had the sales tax incorrect,” Morris noted. “It has been corrected however if anyone notices an error on their bill, please call city hall as some accounts did not switch over correctly in the conversion process.”
Citizen Laurie Stone Caldwell reported that her bill jumped from $75 to $120, which “seem[ed] more than just tax.” Citizen Amber Hardy Roberson reported her mother’s bill had climbed above $300. Citizen Billy Owens speculated his bill was “Twenty-three dollars too much.”
Others stated they had not received a bill. At least four citizens shared they had not yet gotten a billing statement and/ or could not reach the city in an attempt to receive a bill.
Citizen David Weatherbee reported that the city recorded he allegedly used 2,500 gallons more water during the month than his average monthly history, and was charged an additional wastewater fee. Weatherbee reported he lives outside city limits and does not use city wastewater.
The City of Cumby discussed modifying its water rate in May, but the vote was not adopted. The proposed rate was $8 per 1000 gallons inside the city with an overage rate at $45 per 3000 gallons
On June 9, the city modified its water rates to $8 per 1000 gallons inside the city with an overage rate at $45 per 3000 gallons. The rate became effective June 13.
The complete fee schedule water and wastewater billing for 2019 for the City of Cumby can be found online. The 2020 fee schedule has not yet been published.