Winfield residents shocked by high utility bills

WINFIELD — Winfield residents recently received higher-than-expected utility bills, prompting concerns and questions within the community. In response, the city’s utility clerk, Lisa Reese, addressed these issues in a video message. She explained that the increased charges stem from an extended billing cycle and colder-than-usual temperatures.

Reese noted that the billing cycle lasted approximately seven to 10 days longer due to extreme cold temperatures.

"It was unsafe to be outside all day reading meters," she said. "So, when Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 24 and 25, had temperatures of 57 and 61 degrees, that made the meter reading safer, but it also made the billing cycle longer."

She explained that meter readings typically occur around the 19th of each month, but this year, Jan. 19 fell on a Sunday and then the following Monday, Jan. 20, brought below-zero temperatures.

"That is why we chose to read meters on Jan. 16 and 17, when temperatures were 43 and 55 degrees," she said.

A similar situation occurred in February, when another cold spell prevented meter reading on the 19th.

"Feb. 19 had a high of just 10 degrees, so we waited until Feb. 24 and 25, when temperatures reached 57 and 61 degrees, to read the meters,” Reese said.

The delayed readings resulted in a longer billing cycle, leading to higher bills for many residents. She also pointed out that during this extended cycle, temperatures fell to or below zero degrees for about two weeks, causing heating systems to work harder and increase energy consumption.

"You can keep your thermostat set at the same temperature, or even lower, but when it's cold outside, it takes more energy to heat up our homes,” she explained.

Addressing concerns about potential rate increases, Reese clarified that "all rates are set by the city council … those rates do not change each month."

According to Reese, the current rates, since August 2024, are $10 per meter plus $15 per MCF, or unit rate. Water rates remain at $20 for the first 1,000 gallons and $6.50 for each additional 1,000 gallons, while sewer rates stand at $49 for the first 3,000 gallons with $27 for each subsequent 1,000 gallons.

The Winfield City Council holds meetings every second Wednesday of the month, which remain open to the public.

Winfield is not alone in facing rising utility costs. In nearby Fairfield, Alliant Energy customers have seen electric bills rise by about 6% and natural gas bills by approximately 3.5% compared to last year. These hikes follow a rate increase approved by the Iowa Utilities Board in September to modernize the energy grid and upgrade infrastructure. Some Fairfield residents reported significant bill increases, with one noting a jump from $165 to $467 in a single month, partially due to higher usage during colder weather according to the Southeast Iowa Union article “Alliant Energy increases electric, natural gas rates” by Andy Hallman.

To help residents manage these increased costs, Reese encouraged those needing assistance or more time to pay their bills to contact City Hall at 319-257-6661 or text 319-931-4762 to discuss payment options.

"If you are needing help paying for this month's bill or needing more time, do not hesitate to call me and we can work out a payment option. We are more than happy to help out any way possible," she said.

She also mentioned that the city is working to provide more detailed billing information and plans to enhance their website and Facebook page to better explain utility bills.

"We have heard your concerns regarding your information or lack of information on your utility bills," Reese stated. "We are reaching out to the software companies to see about adding the information on the utility bills. In the meantime, you are welcome to reach out to the clerks at the city office. We are more than happy to breakdown your bills for you and explain them to you."

Additionally, residents can seek assistance through programs like the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offered by Southeast Iowa Community Action. LIHEAP helps eligible low-income households with their home energy costs by providing financial assistance for heating bills.

The program prioritizes elderly, disabled individuals, and families with young children, offering crisis assistance for households facing immediate disconnection. To apply, residents must meet income guidelines and provide documentation, such as proof of income and utility bills. More information and applications are available through Southeast Iowa Community Action at caofseia.org.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com