Prichard's water woes continue

PRICHARD, Ala. (WALA) - The battle still rages in Prichard over high water bills.

A local woman felt like she was fighting an uphill battle, after opening an enormously high water bill for the second time in two years.

Linda Blount lives in a small home in Prichard's Alabama Village. A recent trip to the mailbox brought some disturbing news right to her front door.

"When I looked at this [water bill] my heart dropped, and I started to cry," said Linda Blount.

She was holding a $1,230 water bill.

Believe or not this isn't the first time she's gotten a big water bill. FOX10 News first introduced you to Linda Blount in 2009, when her water bill was more than $900.

A new meter seemed to fix that problem.

"They came out and put a new meter in there, then came out and put in another meter. Something is wrong with this meter because I am not at home," said Blount.

For years, customers have complained about high water rates in Prichard. Next year, voters will decide whether the Prichard water board should dissolve.

If the vote passes, The Mobile Area Water and Sewer system will run Prichard's operations. However, in the meantime, Blount worries how to pay this bill when she's already tapped dry.

"I don't have this money to pay this bill. This is a house note and utility bill plus a food bill. I know nobody who works there is paying this," said Blount.

Blount has until August 17 to come up with the money, or her water will be turned off.

Before Mobile Area Water and Sewer System can take over Prichard's operations, customers in Mobile will also have to vote on the matter.

However, their rates will not be affected because legislation was recently passed that prevents an increase in rates.

Attorney for the Prichard Water Board, Willie Huntley, said he did have information about Blount's high water bill.

"I have the answer to your question," said Huntley, "but I can not discuss it with you. I need to have Mrs. Blount's written permission."

Linda Blount said she would be dropping off that written permission Thursday morning with the Prichard Water Board.