Darlene Robinson, a retired senior living in Englewood, recently found herself facing an outrageous water bill totaling $36,000.
For months, Robinson tried to resolve the issue with the City of Chicago, but despite her efforts, the city wasn’t budging. Her usual water bills ranged from $400 to $600, making the massive charge incomprehensible.
Faced with no clear explanation from the city, Robinson sought help from the ABC7-I investigative team.
With media attention on her side, her situation took a drastic turn. After the ABC7-I team got involved, the city finally agreed to cancel the erroneous bill, and Robinson is now awaiting a refund for the payments she made while on a payment plan.
“I don’t owe $36,000 on water. I don’t owe it,” Robinson exclaimed in disbelief during her interview with ABC7-I.
For months, she struggled to find answers and was placed on a payment plan, forcing her to pay over $1,000 a month out of fear of losing her water service.
Robinson, who owns a four-flat building where she provides affordable housing to low-income residents, was worried that the situation could force her to raise rent, something she wanted to avoid at all costs.
As a retiree who worked for 45 years, the $36,000 bill was a heavy burden far beyond her means.
After months of frustration, Robinson turned to media advocacy, and the ABC7-I team’s efforts resulted in the bill being canceled.
While the city has not provided an explanation for the massive bill, Robinson is relieved to have the issue resolved and is awaiting her refund.
“I thank ABC and I thank you for what you’ve done and what you’re doing for others. I appreciate you very much,” she shared, expressing her gratitude to the investigative team.
The situation highlights the power of media advocacy and the importance of standing up for what’s right, even in the face of daunting challenges.
