Affecting Home Sales
As I drove down Rt. 1 today, I saw this sign on the side of the road in front of Campbell Creek Subdivision. The person who painted this sandwich board is evidentially upset about the new water rates. This issue affects an estimated 1800 households. The Caroline Progress report on this issue was added to the county website in September of last year.
I admit that a $150 a month ($1,800 a year) water bill is completely ridiculous. I’m not sure what the point of the sign is, however. The message seems to be a notice to passersby that if you were to live in this subdivision you’ll have to pay an absorbent water bill. This is one more reason why it’s wise for buyers and their agents to ask for a list of utility bills for the past year, when considering a home.
Whereas I understand the frustration of the homeowner, placing the sign on the side of Rt. 1 it will do more to harm neighbors who are trying to sell their home, than to get a reasonable rate. Thus affecting the sign posters property value, as well.
The Increase
In June 2009 Aqua Virginia, who provides water to Lake Land’or and Campbell Creek, filed for a rate change with the State Corporate Commission. The request for 3.2 million dollars – yes MILLION. At the time I didn’t really pay attention. After I read the notice, as a resident of Lake Land’or I became more concerned. Thankfully, we have a septic system. Our first bill arrived and for a 2500+ square foot home with a family of five our water bill is about 30 dollars a month. The rate increase took us to about $40 a month. I understand that times are hard and I’m not really that upset about a $10 increase if it were to increase the water quality and ensure it’s access.
Real Pain
Even though my bill is only $10 more, Portsia Smith posted on her blog that at least one resident has received a bill for $1,200 for one month ($14,400 a year). There was a community hearing including a Senator and representative of the SCC. Of course the answer was… “File your complaint”. This can be done at the SCC Webpage. However, I’ve never been a fan at the pace by which bureaucrats proceed. The Lake Land’or webpage offers very little information, but a poster board at the security gates states that there is a meeting on February 2, 2010 to discuss the issue further.
Typically I take issue with the government interceding with a private business, but this is clearly an unrealistic situation. If ever there was a time for the government to intercede and protect it’s citizenry from abuse, it would be now. In a time of such financial hardship for much of America, one must question the value system of a company to create such incredible rate increases. How does anyone expect a homeowner to pay a $1200 a month water bill? With the huge number of Short Sale and Foreclosure properties on the current market, this drastic water bill will do nothing but increase the inventory of distressed properties.
File a Complaint
- Complete these steps to file a formal complaint (hat/tip to Portsia):
Visit www.SCC.Virginia.gov
Click: “Submit Public Comments On a Case”
Scroll to PUE-2009-00059
Click on “Submit Comments”
