Rocky Mount officials will hold a special meeting on January 7, 2026, to address resident concerns over unexpected double utility bills due to a billing cycle adjustment
Rocky Mount to Hold Meeting on Utility Billing Issue
The City of Rocky Mount announced a special meeting to discuss an ongoing utility billing issue.
This announcement follows reports from residents who received two statements due in January.
The city stated that the typical 30-day billing window was inadvertently extended for some customers. To return all accounts to the regular schedule, some customers received two separate bills close together.
The city initially described the issue as an “operational delay” in meter reading and billing processes.
Residents told WRAL News that having two bills has caused financial strain. Some bills totaled several hundred dollars. James Parker mentioned that his bill was more than double his usual amount.
“I am paying for something that I have got to have. There is no way around it,” Parker said.
Parker visited the Rocky Mount Business Services Center seeking answers but left feeling unclear.
“I pay for a clear answer. And a clear answer is all people want,” he said.
Parker is not alone in his confusion. Multiple council members expressed similar feelings to WRAL News off-camera.
Councilmember Tom Harris stated, “I am hoping this meeting will offer a clear explanation of exactly what transpired.”
The Rocky Mount Mayor also shared a statement. He noted that adjusting the billing cycle during the Christmas season, when finances are tight and staffing was reduced, has increased public concern.
He added, “I think the timing could have been better managed, but this is firmly within the City Manager’s purview, outside of City Council’s power.”
The Mayor requested a complete timeline from the City Manager to help citizens understand the situation better.
The meeting is scheduled for January 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. on the third floor of the Frederick E. Turnage Municipal Building.
| Date | Time | Location | Issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 7, 2026 | 2:00 p.m. | Frederick E. Turnage Municipal Building | Utility billing issue discussion |
