Lower Fruitland Park’s leak adjustment threshold so people who act quickly are not punished with unaffordable bills.

Many cities offer one-time bill adjustments for plumbing leaks, because leaks can happen to anyone and the cost of water lost through a hidden problem should not fall entirely on the customer. Fruitland Park has a program like this too, but only if the bill is over $500. That rule hurts the very people who do the responsible thing early: noticing the leak, shutting it off, and getting it repaired before even more water is wasted. It sends the wrong message and leaves families facing a heavy burden for trying to save the city money.

I was told by two Fruitland Park Utility workers that I could submit proof of the leak and the repair along with my bill, and that it would be forgiven. I acted in good faith, followed that guidance, and paid to fix the problem right away. Now I am left with a large plumber’s bill and a hefty bill from Fruitland Park.

We ask Fruitland Park to lower the leak adjustment threshold and make the program fair to residents who catch leaks early. A practical, fair policy should help people who repair the problem quickly, not punish them for preventing even greater waste. This is a simple change that would show the city values honesty, quick action, and common sense.