By Richard Danielson and Jack Nicas, Times Staff Writers
Thursday, January 20, 2011
TAMPA — It could take two months to track down all the reasons behind a recent rash of stunningly high water bills, but city officials promised Thursday not to cut off service while they and customers work through the problems.
"Nobody's water is going to be shut off," Tampa public works administrator Steve Daignault told City Council members.
To the contrary, city officials plan to double the number of employees, from two to four, who will investigate unexpectedly high water bills that have topped four figures for some homeowners.
Moreover, officials said they will adjust the balances of customers who find and fix leaks that contribute to excessive bills. And they'll provide payment plans for residents who still end up with a bill that's more than they can pay in one bite.
Council members welcomed ...