QUICK SUMMARY
Gilbert residents expressed concerns over rising water bills during two listening sessions with council members and town officials. The town hired Kimley-Horn and Associates to audit the new water metering system, which many believe inaccurately records usage. Complaints include billing spikes and lack of access to historical data.
Residents in Gilbert are grappling with escalating water bills and raised their concerns during two listening sessions with council members. Many attendees highlighted issues with the new utility billing portal and claimed inaccuracies in water meter readings. In response, the town has hired Kimley-Horn and Associates to conduct a thorough audit of its Advanced Metering Infrastructure. Complaints have included unexpected spikes in water usage, with some bills increasing significantly; one resident reported a jump from $75 to $230 in just two months. Public Works Director Jessica Marlow indicated that various factors, such as higher summertime usage and plumbing leaks, could explain the rising bills. Additionally, the town's three-year phased rate hikes, which include a planned 50% increase in April 2024, have exacerbated residents' frustrations. The town aims to address these issues while managing the new billing system that many find confusing. As the audit progresses, residents hope for clarity and resolution regarding their soaring utility costs.