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Coalition calls for relief from DeKalb County billing issues
One business owner said she paid more than $80,000 to settle disputed charges. Another resident said the county continued billing her for thousands of dollars despite a licensed plumber confirming there were no leaks on her property.
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - Frustration is mounting among DeKalb County water customers who say they’ve been hit with massive and inaccurate bills — and can’t get answers. A coalition of residents and activists held a press conference Tuesday, calling on County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson and other officials to strengthen protections for consumers.
What they're saying:
One business owner said she paid more than $80,000 to settle disputed charges. Another resident said the county continued billing her for thousands of dollars despite a licensed plumber confirming there were no leaks on her property.
Advocates at the event said the issue is hitting working-class and lower-income residents hardest, with some households facing both soaring water bills and power costs as high as $400. They urged county leaders to restore transparency and affordability to essential utilities, warning that rising costs are making DeKalb increasingly unlivable for many families.
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