**Rocky Mount Waives Late Fees After Utility Billing Issues Affect Residents**
Leaders in Rocky Mount announced on Tuesday that they will waive certain late fees and penalties as residents face ongoing issues with their utility billing.
The announcement follows concerns raised by several residents who received two utility statements, both due in January. Many reached out to WRAL News for assistance after finding themselves in a financial bind due to the unexpected double billing.
According to a statement provided to WRAL News, the city explained that the typical 30-day billing window was inadvertently extended for some customers. As the city worked to return all accounts to the normal schedule, this resulted in some residents receiving two separate bills close together.
On Monday, officials referred to the incident as an “operational delay” connected to meter reading and billing processes. Residents affected by the issue said it created sudden financial hardship, especially at the start of the new year.
“It’s devastating, especially right after Christmas. Going into the new year and starting off wrong already,” said Raymond Felton, a Rocky Mount resident. “Rocky Mount, you need to get it together. Don’t make citizens pay for the mistake that you guys created.”
This situation follows recent news that the city plans to increase utility rates, after learning it had spent millions more than it collected monthly over the past two years. City officials clarified that the double billing statements are not related to the increased rates.
A city spokesperson said they are actively working with customers to set up flexible payment arrangements and provide access to utility assistance programs.
Residents experiencing difficulties are encouraged to reach out to the city’s utility department for support and information on available resources.
https://www.wral.com/news/local/rocky-mount-residents-billed-twice-utilities-no-late-fees-december-2025/
