Access to clean water is a basic necessity — not a luxury. Yet residents of Portland, Tennessee are being hit with sudden, unexplained water and sewer bills reaching $400–$600 or more for a single month, often without any change in household usage.

Across the city, the same troubling pattern keeps repeating: bills spike dramatically for one month; customers contact Portland Water & Sewer; they are told it “must be a leak”; residents pay out of pocket for plumbers; and, no leaks are found. This is not just an isolated incident but a deeply troubling trend affecting countless Portland residents.

Consider the burden this places on families, many of whom live on fixed incomes or rely on tight budgets to meet their monthly needs. An unexpected utility bill of several hundred dollars can lead to financial strain, forcing people to make sacrifices on essentials like food, medicine, or other utilities.

Portlanders deserve transparency and fairness. It is vital that the Portland Water & Sewer administration conducts a thorough investigation into these unexplained charges. We demand clear, detailed explanations and accountability from the authorities in charge.

Initial inquiries suggest errors in billing records and potential mismanagement within the water billing system. We request an immediate audit of the billing practices, technology, and processes used by the Portland Water & Sewer to identify and rectify any issues. Further, we insist on implementing policies that prevent unjust billing practices in the future.

This issue is more than just about money—it impacts trust in local governance and the well-being of every resident relying on these essential services. We call upon the Portland City Council, State of Tennessee representatives, and all relevant oversight bodies to prioritize this investigation and restore confidence among the community.

By fixing this broken system, Portland can set a precedent for addressing similar issues that may arise in other communities. Sign this petition today to support the call for transparency, accountability, and fair treatment for the residents of Portland, Tennessee.