Rocky Mount Residents Demand Answers as Sky-High Utility Bills and Disconnections Spark Outrage

Rocky Mount residents are speaking out after receiving staggering utility bills, some four to five times higher than their usual charges, and facing abrupt power disconnections. The outcry has intensified following a July audit that revealed problems with meter readings and billing processes.

Frustration Boils Over

Marion Harrison, an asthmatic resident, received a $1,500 utility bill and was told she could pay 60% within 30 days. However, she got a voicemail demanding $600 by 5 PM, leaving her with no choice but to prepare for disconnection. "No way. They want $600 before 5 o'clock. No way," she said. "My lights are just going to be disconnected." Harrison had to buy a portable breathing machine in anticipation of losing power.

Jovaniche Brinkley, a city employee, shared her own ordeal: "People think that people are unemployed or just not paying their bills. People are paying their bills constantly, and when you're getting double bills, in one month, two months, three months, prepaid lights that they haven't even used, that's ridiculous." She had to seek assistance from Social Services to cover her utility costs.

The Human Toll

Tragedy struck earlier this week when three people were found dead in a Rocky Mount home days after their electricity was disconnected, possibly from carbon monoxide poisoning from a generator running indoors. This incident has heightened concerns about the city's disconnection policies.

Tryone Whitley, a long-time resident, saw his bill jump from $180 to $450 in a single month. "How does a bill jump from $180 to $450 in a single month? And nothing's changed?" he asked. "Didn't Rocky Mount just have an audit, and there was a whole bunch of money that was missing? Are we paying the missing money? Is that the case?"

City's Response and Audits

A March audit revealed the city's cash and investment balances fell from $100 million to $21.8 million. Just last month, another audit found significant gaps in meter reading and billing dates. Assistant City Manager C.J. Jordan stated that every customer's situation is different and couldn't comment on individual accounts, but mentioned that customers can request payment plans for up to three months.

As of Aug. 7, the total delinquent balance for active residential utility accounts is approximately $8.7 million. Since July 20, the city has established over 1,580 payment arrangements, and more than 230 customers have had their service restored.

Seeking Solutions

Representative Allen Chesser is reportedly working with city leaders to find alternatives to prevent disconnections, especially during extreme heat. However, no updates have been provided on a possible partnership with state leaders. Two city meetings are scheduled for Monday, but it's unclear if the utility issues will be discussed.

embedded video: Rocky Mount residents want answers to sky-high bills, slow customer service

For more on this story, see related coverage on the tragic deaths and the city's disconnection policies.