Concerns about leaving water running

Concerns about the city’s recommendation to leave a trickle of water running as a precaution against frozen pipes were expressed during last week’s Three Rivers City Commission meeting.

Residents Jim Everett and Helen Dettmar asked Mayor Tom Lowry and commissioners if residents who adhere to the request would be given a break on their water bills.

City manager Joe Bippus said the billing department would make average adjustments for people who do leave water running. Bippus said people who have either been following or plan to abide by the request should visit the city’s finance department.

Lowry suggested the city consider taking the average of the prior three, four or six billing cycles. He clarified that the city will consider the rate adjustment only if a homeowner has, in fact, left water running and their bill is greater than usual.