I am writing to bring attention to a pressing issue faced by the residents of The Carolina Apartments in King, North Carolina, where I live with my disabled son. Our community, composed mainly of individuals with limited income, is struggling to afford the current sewage rates. This is true for all residents of King. The base rate, set at $109.25 bimonthly for 4000 gallons of sewage, is not only excessive but also unreasonable given the lack of in-apartment laundry facilities and dishwashers. Our apartments are all one-bedroom units, and yet each unit is billed as though we consume a substantial amount of sewage, which does not reflect our actual usage. This overestimation of our sewage usage is placing an undue financial burden on a community where residents already face financial difficulties. Our situation is further exacerbated by the fact that many of us are on fixed incomes, with little to no flexibility in our budgets. To provide some perspective, in surrounding areas, similar low-income residential communities pay significantly less for sewage services, adjusted appropriately for the amenities provided and the presumed usage. Winston Salem, NC charges based on usage. This discrepancy needs to be addressed to ensure fairness and financial viability for all residents. We are requesting that the City of King reassess the sewage rate for the City of King, taking into account the actual usage and the limitations faced by the residents here, in city limits, and outside city limits. They are paying a base rate of $143.75. The median base rate in North Carolina is $22.00 - $55.00 a month. That's $44.00 - $110.00 bimonthly. Just because theCity of King may be in that range doesn't me a city with a population of less than 8,000 residents needs to be charged the high end of that base rate. We suggest implementing a usage-based billing system or reducing the flat rate to more accurately reflect our needs and financial capabilities. This would relieve financial pressure and ensure that everyone in King can afford to meet their essential living expenses. A fair rate adjustment would make a substantial difference in our lives, allowing us to allocate our limited resources more effectively and ensuring that basic utilities do not overshadow our other expenses. By signing this petition, you join us in calling upon local authorities to take urgent action. Please sign this petition to support a reduction in the sewage rates for the residents of King, ensuring a fair and just billing system for everyone in King, North Carolina. This platform asks for donations. Please, do not pay. I only need signatures. Thank you.