City Manager Matthew Christian received a wave of criticism over how water is being billed and metered during the monthly budget meeting of the Hamlet City Council Tuesday evening.
“We want our water utility to be as efficient as possible,” said Christian, “and that really starts with where our water is going.”
In a discussion about various housing facilities being individually metered, the topic was brought forward that the metering of the water in the public housing facility on 177 North is unknown.
“We are in the process of making sure all of our facilities are being metered,” said Christian
“How are they paying the water bill,” asked Mayor Bill Bayless.
“They are paying the minimum,” said Christian.
The minimum water and sewer payment of each resident of the public housing facility is $47 per month.
“Every one of those residences pay the minimum of water?” asked Bayless.
“Yes,” responded Christian.
“That’s entirely unfair,” said Councilwoman Abbie Covington
“And we’re wondering where our water has been going,” said Councilman Jesse McQueen. “That makes me angry.”
According to Christian, the facility needs a master meter.
“This is something we are actively working on,” said Christian. “I only just found out this problem exists late last week.”
Bayless said this is definitely a fiscal concern.
“That’s really huge because we’ve been thinking that we’ve been losing that money,” said Bayless.
Christian said that he and his staff are looking into the situation and will report back to the board.
Wednesday, a public Open House to gather community input on the development of the City’s Comprehensive Plan will be held from 4–7 p.m.
The scheduled monthly meeting of the City Council will be held Tuesday, April 11 at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Hamlet City Hall.
