No more surprises- We recently secured a $1.25 million settlement for Phenix City against Master Meter, Inc. and Empire Pipe and Supply Company after experiencing significant billing chaos. This victory ensures that residents won’t face unexpected charges due to faulty water meters.
Importance of Being Trial Ready
This case had significant legal hurdles which made achieving settlement difficult. Elizabeth Weyerman and Gavin King diligently prepared the case for trial. This settlement happened just hours before the case was set to be tried in Russell County.
The Root of the Problem
The problem started with defective water meter registers that led to incorrect billing. These registers had a software glitch which caused the battery to die much sooner than expected. When the trucks came by to read the registers, they were unable to get a signal because the battery was dead. This led to the computer system creating “estimated bills” based on past months’ usage. Many residents faced surprise charges because of this malfunction. Additionally, the city was required to use much of its own time and money to attempt to fix the problems caused by the defect in the registers. As a result, the City hired Beasley Allen to file a lawsuit on their behalf.
Looking Ahead
The city’s proactive approach, combined with the work of Beasley Allen, ensured that residents’ interests were protected. This victory highlights the importance of accountability and the city’s commitment to its residents’ well-being.
With the settlement secured, residents of Phenix City can now look forward to more accurate water bills and a sense of justice served. Phenix City intends to put these funds towards the purchase of a new water meter system. The resolution of this issue marks a new chapter for the community, free from the surprises and financial burdens caused by defective water metering products. Phenix City’s efforts have set a precedent for addressing similar issues in the future, ensuring that residents’ rights are protected.
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