Midtown Homeowner Frustrated Over Missing MLGW Bills

In Memphis, a Midtown resident is speaking out about his troubles with Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW), claiming that he hasn’t received a bill for several months. Lynn Garrison, who resides in the area, last saw an MLGW bill in April, and he’s growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of communication from the utility company.

“Why can’t you get things organized and get this solved?” asked Garrison, as he recounted his experience. His last bill showed an amount of $186, which he promptly paid. To avoid racking up a large balance like he did last year, when he owed MLGW around $1,450, he proactively decided to send them $200 through their website. Two weeks after his first payment, he did the same again.

For months, MLGW has been dealing with issues related to faulty smart meters, which they say have put a damper on their billing capabilities. About five months ago, the utility company informed customers that around 30,000 customers were affected due to issues with their meters. While they believe they have made progress—claiming to have replaced all faulty water registers and around half of the issues with gas indexes—some customers are still finding themselves in a bind.

“I’ve seen the guy [meter reader] come by and read the meters, and I haven’t seen him in months,” said Garrison, who seems to feel left in the dark about his billing situation. MLGW asserts that they have not been holding bills and that Garrison has continued to receive bills each month. In a statement released by MLGW, they acknowledged ongoing issues with billing delays but maintained their stance that they are working to resolve these concerns.

Garrison, who has made numerous phone calls to MLGW, recounted his conversations: “I called a number of times, and they said that they’ve had issues and that they were working on it, and then he would give me the bill as soon as they could.” It’s a classic case of “we’re working on it,” but Garrison and likely many other customers are feeling the weight of uncertainty as the months drag on.

In light of these continued billing issues, MLGW has ramped up efforts by increasing the number of staffers dedicated to processing delayed bills. According to their recent updates, they anticipate that all repairs needed for the affected meters should be complete by the end of August, and they hope to return to normal billing processes by the end of September.

Garrison isn’t the only one facing inconsistencies with his energy bill. Other residents have also expressed concerns. Some customers have claimed that they received duplicate bills or were charged inaccurately due to the ongoing issues with the smart meters. The uncertainty surrounding MLGW’s billing practices has led many residents to feel both anxious and frustrated.

“I asked them if they want me to just live in a tent,” another customer vented, indicating the deep-seated frustration with the entire situation. Many people just want clarity and understand when they’ll receive their next bill or even a breakdown of their past dues.

For Garrison and others affected, the summer months have proven challenging without a clear understanding of their utility bills. The notion of living without regular billing can feel overwhelming; it’s like a shadow lurking overhead, with potential debts piling up. Residents want to know how to manage their expenses, and inconsistent billing makes it tough.

MLGW recognizes the gravity of the situation they’re dealing with and has pledged to fix this problem once and for all. Their commitment to making permanent repairs is a positive step forward, and with hopes that billing will return to its normal rhythm by September, there’s a flicker of light at the end of the tunnel.

As we await the resolution of these billing conflicts, it’s evident that Garrison’s frustrations aren’t just about the money; they tap into a broader desire for reliable service and trust. Residents should take extra steps to monitor their accounts and keep communication open with the utility provider during this transitional time.

As the situation develops, those affected continue to hold their breath, waiting for MLGW to get back to a normal billing cycle. Until then, they will carry on, doing their best to navigate the cumbersome waves of delayed bills and mounting worries.