Fort Smith, ARK — Many residents of Fort Smith are grappling with significant increases in their water bills, a situation that has left some residents shocked and financially strained. Among them is Dorothy Thomas, a disabled mother, who saw her monthly water bill soar from $120 to over $400 in December.
Thomas, who lives in a household of three people, down from seven, said the sharp rise in her bill came as a complete surprise. With fewer people in her household, she expected her water charges to decrease, not escalate. “It didn’t make sense,” Thomas said. “I shouldn’t have to help the city of Fort Smith pay off their debt.”
The steep increases in water bills are a result of a combination of factors, including a citywide water rate hike announced in August. City officials stated that the rate increase was necessary to cover rising operational costs and to address the city’s existing debt. However, many residents, including Thomas, have expressed frustration, as their bills have skyrocketed far beyond what they anticipated.
Josh Buchfink, the city’s public relations manager, explained that the rate hike was not the sole reason for the increased charges. He clarified that many residents’ bills were also impacted by a billing practice called “winter averaging.” This method is used to align water and sewer charges during colder months, when consumption typically drops. According to Buchfink, winter averaging aims to help customers by balancing their charges throughout the year, ensuring lower bills during the summer months when water usage is higher.
“Winter averaging is separate from the water increase,” Buchfink said, attempting to clarify the dual reasons behind the rising charges. However, for residents like Thomas, the explanation has done little to alleviate the financial burden.
For Thomas, who relies on disability payments, the hike is simply unaffordable. “I’m on disability and I cannot afford the increase because I don’t make that much as it is now,” she said. The higher charges have pushed her to the brink, as she struggles to make ends meet.
In response to the financial hardships many residents are facing, the city has made provisions through its Project Concern initiative, which offers reduced water bills for eligible residents. Those in need of assistance can inquire about the program to determine if they qualify for financial relief.
While the city’s efforts to explain the billing structure and offer aid have provided some reassurance, many residents, especially those on fixed incomes, continue to face a difficult challenge in managing their rising water costs.