Nearly 1,400 Billings Residents Face Water Shutoff This Monday

Monday marks the final deadline for nearly 1,400 Billings water customers to settle unpaid bills or face service disconnection.

City Administrator Chris Kukulski confirmed that up to 2,000 customers could lose water service unless they pay outstanding balances or establish payment plans with Public Works.

The shutoff criteria targets customers who haven't paid for two months, carry balances exceeding $100, and haven't arranged payment plans.

The crisis stems from a controversial billing software conversion that has divided the community for months.

Ongoing disputes over water bills began in June 2024 when the city converted its utility billing software.

Shortly after the transition, some customers reported receiving substantially increased bills.

City officials maintain the billing system operates accurately despite widespread customer complaints.

Independent audits found no systemic or software-related issues, though some human billing errors were discovered and corrected.

Many residents disagree and say their bills are thousands of dollars more than their historical usage.

The standoff has created financial hardship for elderly residents and families on fixed incomes.

Community organizer Gary Zacc noted that elderly people feel threatened and intimidated because they don't know where that money is going to come from, with medications, food and utility bills competing for limited resources.

The city suspended late fees in 2024 after the software issue led to higher-than-expected charges for residents on the city water system.

However, this suspension led to many customers accumulating significant unpaid balances.

Payment plans remain available for struggling customers who contact Public Works before the Monday deadline.

City officials emphasize they are happy to work with customers to set up payment plans, and entering into a payment plan while meeting requirements will avoid shut-off of service.

The billing controversy represents one of the most contentious municipal issues in recent Billings history.

Over the past 18 months, city staff and an independent auditor reviewed the billing system, including audits of meter equipment and software.

Residents facing shutoff can contact Public Works to discuss payment arrangements before service disconnection begins Monday.