Winona residents left outraged over water, sewage

WINONA — According to our news partner KETK, Winona residents were left outraged after a town hall meeting was held on Tuesday, where they discovered the reason for high water and sewage rates costing them hundreds of dollars

The Winona City Council brought in Texas Rural Water Association wastewater specialist Louis Booth to discuss why several residents are seeing an increase in their water and sewage bills. After a rate study was conducted by the association, it was proposed that water and wastewater rates should see increases to generate more revenue for the companies. During the meeting, Booth told residents that their water rate would see a $14.16 increase and their wastewater rate would see a $17.75 increase.

These rates are based on the national water usage per residence of 2,000 gallons.

Some residents at the meeting pointed out how the $17.75 and $14.16 increases do not match the price on their bills. One resident told Booth they noticed an increase in their bill from $103 to $250, despite not having any leaks.

According to Booth, since 2020-2021, everything used in the water and wastewater industry has doubled or tripled in price, and these companies will need to charge more to continue making a profit. Booth said most people do not think of water and wastewater services in the same light as other services that people use every day.

“Most people don’t think about water and sewer, and it’s unfortunate, but it’s a business just like anything else, and the cities have to stay in business to keep providing high-quality service to the customers,” Booth said.

Another resident said they suspect a problem with the digital meters used by multiple Winona residents that track how much water and wastewater is being used. The resident explained how on most days, nobody is at their home, but the meter reports high water usage. They also explained they don’t have any leaks or running toilets.

“I know there has to be a problem with at least the meter because I can leave in the morning, take a picture of my meter, and nobody is there, there’s nothing running,” the resident said. “I can come back, and my meter has run 84 gallons.”

Booth acknowledged these issues by recommending that residents keep track of their water usage and try to conserve whenever possible. He also said that residents can check their toilet pipes by picking up dye tablets at the Winona City Hall that show for possible leaks.