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Wednesday, February 17, 2010 11:31 AM

What was your utility bill? Are rates too high or fair? Click here to comment and tell us what you think.

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(1143 comments)

esha said...

do anyone know if lucama power has high utility bills???

Saturday, February 02, 2013 at 4:37 PM

TIRED said...

I am getting the run around, recieved a bill about 3 times the normal amount, called WE who replaced the meter. The they stated the old one tested fine but i went from using 25kwh a day on average to 68 kwh a day for one billing cycle.As soon as they replaced the meter my usage went right back to 25kwh.I have called and recieved the run around they basically said tuff. Any ideas? i really cant afford this kind of thing to happen?

Wednesday, December 26, 2012 at 2:06 PM

Adam said...

Too high, I paid 110.00 a month in Clayton now I'm paying 400.00 a month for the same size house. Wilson utilities is pathetic and now we are going to move away for more reasonable rates.

Friday, December 14, 2012 at 7:55 PM

pamela woodard said...

Its fall it was not too hot or cold light bill high the sad part its a thousand or more unemployed citzens in wilson nc the city want to run christmas lights and expect us to pay for them. Come on it should be a budget for christmas we are in recession we should vote as city to run lights or not. God is not happy the bible says ify people turn from there wicked ways he will healed the land

Wednesday, November 07, 2012 at 9:40 AM

G Whitaker said...

I mean yes they are to high I don't figure up what type of math you guys using

Wednesday, November 07, 2012 at 1:27 AM

Bibbs lost! said...

Looks like Susan Martin will have her chance to get our bills in check! So glad the drunk Bibbs lost!

Wednesday, November 07, 2012 at 12:19 AM Vote for Susan Martin said...

The only reason Bibbs is acting like he is going to stop the high bills is because he knows there is nothing he can do about it. He is supported by people that are on the electri-cities (Wilson Energy) board. The only reason Susan martin has a donation from Duke Energy is because they want to come in and take over the power from Wilson Energy. This is the only way we will ever see power bills fall. Bibbs is a liar. If you cant trust him to get behind the wheel of a car after he has been drinking. You will never get him to lower our power bills. The poster below is Mark Bibbs. Nice try Mark but we are not buying it. Vote For SUSAN MARTIN!!!!

Tuesday, November 06, 2012 at 8:39 AM Vote for Mark Bibbs said...

On Tuesday, November 6th, vote for Mark Bibbs for NC House. He is the only candidate that intends to get rid of our worst problem, ElectriCities. He has a plan, and will make this issue his top priority. Despite the comment posted below, Bibbs is NOT supported by power companies or their allies. They are trying to beat Bibbs. Duke Energy gave his opponent Susan Martin money recently. Just go to the NC State Board of Elections website, select campaign finance, type in Susan Martin, then look at her 3rd Quarter report. There you will see the Duke Power contribution. Then type in Mark Bibbs in campaign finance. No where in any of his contributions is a power company, their employees or allies.

Monday, November 05, 2012 at 1:41 AM said...

I think the rates in Wilson are high. I really believe the citizens of Wilson county would benifit greatly if we had a choice of service providers.

Thursday, November 01, 2012 at 4:38 PM Unknown said...

We live in a small 900 sqft apartment and pay over $200 monthly. We are very frugal with how we try to save energy but we can barely afford to make the payment each month. Over time the City of Wilson is pushing their residents into debt and forcing people to move to the county. Whomever is in charge of the cost of utilities should be ashamed of themselves. We need a change otherwise we too will have to move in order to afford our bills.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012 at 11:32 AM wilson resident said...

do not understand why people have high bills, I live in a 52 year old house and is1500 sq ft. the highest bill in the past 12 mo was $326. I don't understand these comments posted here, rule of thumb, learn how to use your thermostat and understand what type of hvac system you're using. It all boils down to uneducated people that seem to be a huge problem in this side of I95.

Sunday, October 28, 2012 at 3:02 PM Bibbs supported by power companies said...

Don't let Mark Bibbs fool you. He is accepting money for his campaign from people supported by energy groups like power companies. This guy is acting like if you vote for him that he will get the power bills down and if anything they will go up. Don't let him fool you folks.

Friday, October 26, 2012 at 9:42 AM Tracy said...

The rates are extremely high! Wilson Co. ranks the 7th highest in utility services in North Carolina

Friday, October 26, 2012 at 10:41 PM Mrs. Hines said...

WoW!! I read through some of the other comments and just like I expected everyone bill is WAY TOO HIGH just like mine. Last month they read my meter wrong and failed to notify me the difference. To make a long story short I still wasn't satisfied with the bill only taking off a couple of dollars..just to say yeah we made a mistake! It's a shame we all should just move and im giving myself just one more year here!!! Wish I could go sooner!

Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 1:15 PM Jeannette said...

425.00 YES rates are to high. My house is a small house and we have had the ac for one month and no heat, Wilson energy is a joke! They are not very helpful neither, my husband has been unemployed for 18 monts and we used all our extensions they would not help us anymore. All the time our bill is over the amount of his check

Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 7:00 AM Batten - Wilson County said...

Our bill is too high. I compare mine to may sister's who is on Progress Energy. I have alternative heat source for winter, and my bill is still too high.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012 at 12:47 PM Overcharged!! said...

My bill is always just as much as my rent. I have a 2bdr apt. and the light bill is $441, which is not far from the rent!! It is so funny one month it was $450 the next month it went down $100 and this month it went right back up!! No point in arguing the City always gives us the same old rehearsed excuse so it is not point in it. I really wish we had other alternatives for electricity and I would be the first to subscribe, but right now we have no choice but to just pay the high bills the City imposes on their citizens - because sitting in the dark is not an option for me. Maybe they will get it together soon!!

Friday, October 12, 2012 at 10:16 AM Rabbit said...

and to respond to Foley, I do believe that. I've been told by a person that works for them and they said ; anickers ( you really think they check every meter in this town) .

Thursday, October 11, 2012 at 6:03 PM Rabbit said...

Too high, like half the bills and people in this town. Ain't nothing but one big SCAM

Thursday, October 11, 2012 at 5:58 PM coley said...

well craven; you may not live in the same neighborhood as some of us. you may get more than others for disability, your rent may not be as much as ours are, or you may not have a car or other expenses that we have, but the bottom line is that the utility bill is too high. My sister got a bill one time for a gas bill that she never cut on in her house. She made sure that she did not cut on the gas so she could see if she would get charged for it; the bill was over $100.00. If that's not proof that they are charging what they guess you are using, I don't know what other proof you need.

Monday, October 08, 2012 at 11:43 AM @Craven said...

I wish it was a simple leak but we are paying electric only.No water or gas just electric and I just got my bill yesterday and it 568.00 this month.It never comes below 500.My disablity check is 708.00 a month.Its so hard paying these high bills.We havent had money to buy groceries in 2 months.We are having to do the best we can and they will not help u at all at the City of Wilson.I finally ask for help last month with breaking it down one month into 3 payments so we could buy groceries and they said no.

Friday, September 28, 2012 at 8:58 AM coley said...

I feel that they are charging people just what they think that they are using in their homes, based on the neighborhood or what their bill was or have been in the past. I know I have turn down my utility bill and it was the same. they should have a continued income-based account for the dissability (with dependences) or social security people. We just cannot make on this fixed income that they have out here (without the Lord on our side) but we need help from you.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012 at 11:29 AM unknown said...

yes it is very very,why can't we get on the same plan as rocky mount,having light bills that is more than rent is to much and home owner,think about the elder that just do not have it some elder do not even look at tv, cook, burn heat or air trying to keep the cost down

Monday, September 24, 2012 at 12:44 PM Craven said...

@CBASS., you must have a leak or your getting ripped off, I too am disabled & sit around playing video games all day, & my bill has never been over $200

Tuesday, September 18, 2012 at 12:48 PM Rita said...

We moved here recently from KY and were shocked about the forst bill. And the second bill was even $100 higher than the first ! We turn off / plug put appliances when we don't need them, have the a/c on a higher temperature and we try to conserve water. We have 3 kids and only 1 income and utilities are frustratingly high ! Utilities need to be strongly considered if someone wants to live in Wilson and are absolutely a reason to move away.

Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at 11:15 AM @CBASS. said...

I agree with you.Something needs to be done.My husband and I are on disablity and He has MS.He only sits on the couch all day watching tv or on his computer.Our bill was $747.00 this month.Last month it was $658.00.Theres no way we use this much in a month.In the winter our bill is still high and we use gas for heat from another source.Our bill hardly ever comes down.It takes my whole check each month to pay our electric bill.We all need to come together and do something.One person cant do it.If anyone wants to protest these high bills let me know.Im in for sure!

Sunday, September 09, 2012 at 4:12 AM Walt said...

Electricities rates and the Wilson city tacked on charges for improvements in the Wilson infrastructure are driving families and business from Wilson which increases unemployment and decreases the tax base which results in increases in tax rates...this is melt down and unless it is fixed (lower elctric rates)Wilson will turn into a deserted high crime area no one will want to live in. Period.

Tuesday, September 04, 2012 at 7:10 AM williams said...

I live just inside wilson utilities boundry and pay almost a third more than my niebors that have progress energy , they use more electricity than i do

Sunday, August 26, 2012 at 9:23 AM Mike t said...

most recent 129 but from the beginning of the year it was around 145 - 155 and I wasn't using more energy than a tv, 1 ps3 an 1 light. when i called to have a power audit (The guy didn't even show up) my bill went down to 70 - 80 dollars for 2 months and now its creeping back up.

Friday, August 24, 2012 at 2:24 PM ben said...

kilawats per billing to high , should be around .08 cents

Friday, August 24, 2012 at 11:20 AM CBASS said...

We just moved here from SW Florida. We ran our AC constantly at 71 degrees, we have three small children, that for some apparent reason, don't know how to shut a door. Our bill was never more than 250.00 a month for power. I just received my first power bill here in Wilson and it was 509.00... my goodness, really! I do understand it is a consolidated bill, but just the power part was 386.96. That is .26 per KWH when we were paying .12 Per KWH in what I thought was one of the most expensive places to live. ( Naples, FL) There should be some sort of oversight committee in place that consist of residents of Wilson. This must affect the way people spend and the overall economy of this county/ city. If town and government officials would really like to turn the corner and bring more business and commerce to the area, they need to address the overall economy, which relates to utility rates and get better at how they provide electricity, gas, etc. to businesses and homeowners. The Tax situation is through the roof as well, maybe we shouldn't pay the sheriff of a small town like this 160,000 dollars a year, not to mention what other officials are pulling in. It seems to be a good ole boy network that is really trying the towns budget, which inevitably trickles down to your (the consumer's) pocket. We just got here and already I am unsure of whether we should stay. I am sure that I am not the only person like that from what I have read here. I agreed with a statement I read that we need to ask the right people the right questions and I would like to help anyway I can. I am a tenacious individual and can help in many ways if anyone is interested.

Saturday, August 18, 2012 at 2:51 PM kharper said...

I don't know why they want us to keep commenting about the utility bills when they aren't doing anything about them! The City of Wilson does not care about the rates because there's no competition. If you want lights, City of Wilson. If you want water, City of Wilson. What other options do we have?

Saturday, August 18, 2012 at 10:32 PM Nick said...

What we have here is a monopoly. This is supposed to be illegal. We should have the right to chose which electric company we want to provide us with electricity. I live in a small home with brand new energy saver appliances and energy saver bulbs. My light bill is always higher than my rent. It is outrageous.
I did not sign a 50 year contract, Wilson government, I do not want to honor that contract so stop forcing it on us. YOU did this not us.

Friday, August 17, 2012 at 5:03 PM Renee said...

Decatur Utilities in Decatur, AL has decided that they are going to raise our monthly rates 10%. That is bad enough in this economy. Worse yet, they have also decided to penalize their customers a 10% rate increase per degree that is used below 76 degrees. For example: If a customer keeps their thermostat on 74 degrees instead of 76 degrees then along with the already expensive rates they will add a 20% increase. This is wrong on so many levels. NO one persons body temps are the same, so there is no way that everybody can be comfortable at the same temperature. Our utilities bill went from the low $200's to the low $300's in one month. Decatur Utilities says the rate increase penalty is because Alabama's main source of electricity saying that the best temperature to keep your house on is 76 degrees. It might be the best temperature, but not everyone is comfortable at that temperature. Also, Decatur Utility has no right to penalize a customer for using the services that they use and pay for. All it boils down to is that Decatur Utilities is greedy. They do not care about their customers at all.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012 at 12:06 AM sdavis said...

yes , its unreal , live in 1000 sq ft home bill was 353.00 this month , i know its been hot but we have those champion replacement windows to help save , those were right at 9300.00. city of wilson & county are the most expensive place to live around eastern nc . its a constant thing "price " here . we keep our thermastat on 78 .

Thursday, August 09, 2012 at 4:07 PM Rich said...

I find the rates in Wilson to be very reasonable. I own two homes in Wake County and the utility bills in Wilson are much more reasonable than those in Wake County. My total bill here for everything is sometimes the same as just my Progress Energy bill in Wake County.

Monday, July 30, 2012 at 2:17 PM bh mercer said...

I live in Greensbor and my Mom's utility bill in Wilson is literally 3x what I pay per month!

Saturday, July 21, 2012 at 8:28 PM W J Summerlin said...

I have no problem with my bill even if my rates are higher than other companies. Last week when the storm came I had family members that was without power for 2 days & mine was still on. Those that were on Wilson lines come bk on in a couple of hours. You could see City of Wilson trucks everywhere. No I rather pay extra for good service & I get good service. Thank you linemen for working as hard as you do.

Friday, July 13, 2012 at 8:41 AM bubbasmother said...

Mine went up over $100 this month !

Tuesday, July 03, 2012 at 3:46 PM Dee f said...

I lived in other areas of North Carolina before I moved to Rocky Mount and my utilitie bill was never this high. I do not use a lot of light during the day when I am home and do not run the air conditioner that much. what I paid in for light in the winter time at my old place is what I pay now in the summer time where I live now. From my understanding the high rates come from the mismanagement of the city in the 70's. Something needs to be done.

Thursday, June 21, 2012 at 5:35 PM Barton said...

I think the utility prices in Wilson are out of control! I go to Barton and my parents live in Wake County, they were shocked to see what my portion of the bill was for a small 2 story town home. Their bill for a 3,000 square foot house is less a month than what my roommate and I were paying. Something really needs to be done about the prices. The economy is hard enough as it is, we don't need crazy utility prices too.

Monday, June 11, 2012 at 2:37 PM DFW said...

This question made me curious what we are paying... bhoneycutt10 is correct. Just moved here from DFW, we were paying 0.08837 per kWh on a fixed rate plan there and here it fluctuates between .15 &.17/kWh?! And it's not even stated on the bill! I had to do the math to see what I was actually paying - SHADY!!. My guess is the reason it's that way is there's no competition. In DFW there's a website - powertochoose.org where you can pull up all the offers from all the different companies and get the best deal. Some offer rebates, others offer fixed rate incentives over a contract period, etc. The main differnce is there's a choice, where here, there is NO CHOICE.

Thursday, June 07, 2012 at 10:16 PM Sid said...

Wilson is stealing form its own people, I'm one of the lucky ones,I live in wilson county and my bill last month was $47.00 and I live in a three bedroom house but I do keep the windows open unless its like it was this weekend.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012 at 3:47 PM Paying Too Much said...

You can thank Electric Cities...whether you live in Wilson, Rocky Mount or Sharpsburg. Costs would be so much less if we could switch over to Progesss Energy, but this is how the cities make their money...from the utility customers. Look at the annual budget for each of these cities abd see how dependent they are on the income from the utilities.

Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at 10:59 AM bhoneycutt10@nc.rr.com said...

Wilson nc utility bills are outrageous. compared against fort worth/ houston/dallas texas....we pay 3 times the killowatt rate. what is going on?

Sunday, May 27, 2012 at 11:04 AM Will said...

It appears as though the City of Wilson and the surrounding areas are pulling the same stuff that ENRON pulled in California, before they finally got caught ripping people off, with the ridiculous energy bills. The question is, "When are those involved going to be brought up on charges?"

Sunday, April 29, 2012 at 12:31 AM tracey woodard said...

im a residence in sharpsburg and my light bill is higher now than the colder winter days when i was running the heat everyday. I think they are way too high

Friday, April 27, 2012 at 1:51 PM Former Yankee said...

I moved to Wilson 2 yrs ago and my electric bill has been 20-30% higher here, than when I lived in CT. In CT my home was total electric, here in Wilson my heat is by gas. My home is a bit bigger now, with energy saving appliance, and better installation. Electricity is very high in conparision.

Friday, April 27, 2012 at 4:18 AM Concerned said...

I cant say that i agree with Cassandras statement about the rates for the black community, i dont think race has a thing to do with this at all, the blacks, whites, hispanics, aisans, etc all are paying the equally high rates here. if you ask me, some of the issues we americans face everyday are created by people making statements as she did. as far as the high prices go, please take a moment and vote when elections come around, and vote for those that are going to look out for the citizens of wilson, and those who have a valid interest in reducing the burden of wilson's residents.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012 at 9:07 AM Cassandra said...

Utilities in Wilson County are extremely too high in the Black community. You can thank your Mayor Bruce Rose for that.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012 at 9:37 PM said...

the eletric bills are high, wilson energy is expensive

Monday, April 09, 2012 at 10:24 AM Vote Mark Bibbs said...

Pay very close attention to the power bill issue in this year's elections. The Mayor and our City Council cannot do anything about this issue, regardless of who is elected, Bruce Rose or M.K. Smith. I've been keeping up with other campaigns. Mark Bibbs wrote a letter to the Editor a few weeks ago outlining this Electricity problem. I read it. Now I understand this problem, and what the solution is. Bibbs has the right answers to this issue. I went to his campaign website, markbibbs.com, and I learned a lot more. So to those reading these comments about your ridiculous power bills, vote for Mark Bibbs for the North Carolina House in November. This problem can only be solved by the legislature in Raleigh, not city leaders here in Wilson.

Monday, April 09, 2012 at 5:32 AM Unknown said...

Does it really matter what we think? Nothing will be done about it. We can talk til we are blue in the face!! One day I will be in a position to leave this sorry town!!!!!

Wednesday, April 04, 2012 at 11:30 AM Jackie Spears said...

I think utility bills are highway robbery. My bills are never under two hundred dollars a month. They are always more than mortgage payments and this is unbelieveable! There are only two occupants living at this resident and we struggle to make payments. Last year I had to seek help from the Salvation Army to help with the bill. I have always paid my bill on time and so it seems like we would be granted some incentives once in a while such as cutting the bill in half instead of cutting the power off totally. We citizens of Wilson need a Miracle!

Monday, March 26, 2012 at 9:08 AM Micah Moses said...

I moved here last year and i was astounded by my bill.It has drastically changed my lifestyle.
Living in Raleigh before, my four bedroom house built in the 40's with the heat on constantly in the winter never was above $150. I live in a 2 bedroom town house in wilson and never use my central air or heat and cant keep the bill below $250. one month last year was well above $500. i am not sure how people are supposed to live. due to this i am making plans to move. the increase in rent will still save me money when my power bill is sometimes costing more than my rent.

Saturday, March 17, 2012 at 3:06 PM B J Prayer said...

I think that all light bills are to high and my family is on a fix income and our light bill is some that is don't make sense I think that we should have one fixed rate to pay every month and it should stay that way.

Friday, March 09, 2012 at 8:05 PM unknown said...

YES wilson utility bills are high and its a shame we are moving far from this town where utility company do care for there customers,my father is on oxygen 24hrs a day seven days a week 365 days a year on a fix income yet they still disconnect his utility this town is the worst town i ever lived in no wonder business dont stay hear long.

Friday, March 09, 2012 at 8:22 AM Devin said...

Asking someone if their electric bill is too high is a loaded question. Many people are complaining saying that their bill is way higher than the place they lived before. There are a few things you need to consider when looking at your Wilson Energy bill. This is not an electric bill, it is a consolidated bill meaning that there are many other services included. That is why you are seeing bills for $700.
What everyone needs to focus on is the price per kwh. The price in Wilson 13.1 cents per kwh. If you compare this to the rest of NC we are paying about 3 cents more per kwh. That is 30% higher than the state average. This is what you should be complaining about. When you call Wilson Energy ask them why the rate is so high, not why your bill is high.

Friday, March 09, 2012 at 10:49 PM Mrs taylor said...

Light bills here are ridiculous..we pay atleast 400.00 and 500.00...this month was 309 I believe..my family quality of living has been reduced drastically. We can't have cable and the extras...time to make a change...the other side of town was completely different and I believe that's where we will our out of wilson

Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at 2:49 PM Wilson SKS said...

In a recent News and Observer article about a study that had been done recently, Wilson was the third most expensive city to live in, in all of North Carolina. Only Chapel Hill and one other were more expensive when it came to taxes and utilities. All that expense for what??? Why does it cost so much to live in this place?

Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at 11:56 AM Unknown said...

Why is it ,that the utilities in this small town so high?when Raleigh is much lower than Wilson? I move my family to Wilson, the cost of living is extremely high to be a small town , my utilities range from$ 600.00 to $800.00 a month my utilities are higher than my rent. I'm packing my family up running for our life ,or will be living on the streets,Wilson, property taxes now that, is to much, Wilson charge u twice for property taxes, when u purchase a car you are taxed, when the first of the year you are taxed, what is going on in this town,I don't see how the citizens make it here. The cost of living is crazy.My brother moved to Raleigh big house, his utilities range less than a hundred dollars. Have the city of Wilson wondered why no businesses come to Wilson, that's right the utilities are keeping growth in Wilson. Wilson is the worst place in the world to live .

Sunday, February 26, 2012 at 4:52 PM Sad said...

Wilson has the worst utility rates! We came from Florida and ran our AC year round and our bill was half! We are just pure stupid to stay in Wilson...

Sunday, February 26, 2012 at 7:25 AM Faye said...

Yes the rates are too high. We cut our heat back to 66 and sat in our home bundled up to keep warm and still had a bill of $370.00. Fair, I don't think so.

Saturday, February 25, 2012 at 8:56 PM Faye said...

No our bill was not lower. We cut our heat back to 66 degrees and froze sitting in our home and our bill was still $370.00.

Saturday, February 25, 2012 at 8:46 PM candy said...

The rates here are ridiculously high!!! This city has a monopoly on utilities so they can rob us blind. We need another company in this area to make them more competetive&fair.

Saturday, February 25, 2012 at 7:23 PM A McCoy said...

My utility bill was $386. I feel that the utiliy prices for most people in Wilson are outrageous. I am a single mother who finds it difficult to keep up with the high utility costs. I try everything I can to keep it down with little avail. I would like to see the costs go down or a program designed to help with residents who have high utilities. Alot of people in Wilson cannot afford the little neccessities of life because of the utilities. Somehting needs to change immediately.

Thursday, February 23, 2012 at 11:53 PM Fremont over 6 months past due refund said...

I started a Light and Water account with the Town Of Fremont,NC on July 30,2009. I had to post a $400.00 Special Deposit to start the account. As stated on the Towns Certificate "such Deposit to be refunded upon surrender of this Certificate" The refund policy also states "On a quarterly basis during the months of January,April,July and October of each year the Town shall review its residential customer deposit accounts. The Town Clerk is authorized to refund residential customers their deposits provided that during the past twenty four (24) consecutive months the residential customer has not had service discontinued for an reason, and the residential customer has not had two occasions in which a bill was not paid when it became due during the last twenty four (24) consecutive months, or, have a check given for payment dishonored during the last twenty four (24) consecutive months. Deposits of residential customers shall be retained by the Town until the customer qualifies for a refund or until services are terminated." I had the Town Clerk review my account in July 2011 and addressed any issues concerning my account. The Town Clerk reviewed my account and informed me that the account is good standing and meets the requirements for refund as listed in the Towns Certificate. She stated that "The computer" will print out the check, now she gives me one excuse after another as of to way I haven't received my deposit, ie "I have more important things tend to, we have an new system, we are learning to use the new system, I'll be reviewing the accounts next week, come back at the end of the week, on Friday February 10 2012, the day I was told to return, the Town Clerk called in sick. I spoke with the Town Admin and he proclaimed not have any knowledge of this refund not being honored. I informed him this has been going on for the past 6 months, He said he would look into it, I returned Monday Feb.,13 2013 to be informed by the Town Manager they were working on hand held meter. Their website states,"Don't complain about the cost of electricity, do something about it,...Okay I'll be blowing the whistle. The Town of Fremont Light and Water Department needs to be audited, wheres the money going?

Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at 5:47 PM adam said...

The city of Wilson is the only place where the city runs the utilities. They have a monopoly on it. We have no way or choice to change or negotiate for cheaper rates.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 at 9:10 AM CB said...

I was looking at my super high utility bill for the month and I noticed that the garbage pick up has now jumped to $16.50 from $12.00. Really? Why was I never informed of this. Guess its just another way for them to be sneaky and price gouge us some more.

Tuesday, February 07, 2012 at 2:07 PM Nikki said...

The rates are way to high. I moved from Wilson because of the light bill. It was always around 400 and every time u ask why, they say because of the weather or heat outside. But now I have progress energy and my light bill run me from 100 to 150 a month. Now u no something was wrong in Wilson.

Monday, February 06, 2012 at 6:25 PM Mike said...

My family and i lived in wilson for 8 years, and over the years we watched our bill grow and grow while the whole time we were cutting back on our usage. however after years of seeing that the local politicians were not concerned about the rising cost, we elected to move, we moved in to a larger house and out of wilson county. now our light bill last month was 134.00, i never even thought i would see that low of a bill again, but i guess if it takes moving out of wilson to get a decent electric bill, then so be it. been moved for 3 months now and i am so glad i made the choice to do so. i will never move back to wilson, and i am wondering how many more people will have to move before someone takes action.

Monday, February 06, 2012 at 2:02 PM Jimmy said...

Way to high How does the City expect residents and businesses to stay in town with utilities and property taxes both so high It is not attractive to anyone thinking of Wilson as a place to live

Wednesday, February 01, 2012 at 8:23 PM said...

I was in the market for buying a house my lightbill in wilson was averaging 500.00 a month on a house i paid 500.00 a month to rent in the winter it was around 850.00. Every boby said buy in Sims lightbill cheaper there with progress energy. I bought a house there and my lightbill average 110.00 in the winter and 90.00 in the summer. Sad had to leave town in order to afford lights. Only in Wilson

Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 9:33 PM Interesting results said...

We have made several energy saving improvements over the last two years. It seemed that each time we made an improvement, our utility bill went up..which would lead us to make another energy saving improvement..which would lead to an even higher bill. Then we had a drop of $20 dollars in October. Then we had a $50 drop in November. Then the December bill saw a small increase. Which we could not understand. We had so many days that we turned the HVAC off, due to warmer days (it seems that some of our improvements enable our home to maintain a constant inside temp, especially on warmer days without the HVAC). Then during December, we had several days that it was warm enough to raise windows. We were careful to close the windows before the cooler late afternoon air decended. During Christmas we had no outside lights and no Christmas tree. We only had four window candles that we turned on for a couple of hours each night. We did very little cooking during the holiday. After Christmas we had a few additional warm days that we were able to turn the HVAC off. When we received our utility bill last week, we were speechless...we had an increase of $100. We are back to the higher bracket AGAIN! It is totally frustrating. At this point, we agree that something seems a "little" strange. When you do everything you can do and then get only a couple of months "break" from the norm... It makes you want to cry...the improvements that we made were not cheap...this is money we could have saved.

Thursday, January 26, 2012 at 10:21 PM April said...

Wilson Energy is to high of an electric bill!!

Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at 9:10 PM this only happens with wilson energy said...

I had gotten my shut off notice stating that my lights will be cutt off on 1/19/12. I called after lunch to pay my bill and they inform me that my lights were already disconnected and that I needed to pay and additional $15 for a reconnection fee since it was before 4pm. First of all why would you cut off someone lights during the morning without giving them a chance to pay. So I paid them thinking that my lights were going to be on when I got home. They were still OFF. So I called the city again to see what was going on, and they tell me that I did not pay my reconnection fee. I could not believe this. Why would I call to have my lights cut back on and not pay the reconnection fee? Do the people in customer services need college education to get those positions? Matter of fact do they have high school diplomas? I could not believe this foolishness. So since they did not charge me the first time I called and it was after 4pm, I had to pay an additional $50. I know people who has went way beyond their shut off notice without paying their utilities bill. I know one person who has not paid in over 4 months and their lights are still on. Riddle me this. Even though my bill was $209(which is too high), at the end I ended up paying $259. Only in Wilson, NC.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 10:31 AM Disgusted said...

Both. It's a shame when we sit around bundled up to not have the heat so high in a compact 2 bedroom and we still pay $250. And you wonder why people need public assistance? Ask the electric company monopolies who can charge whatever they want as long as they can "justify" the charges to the already corrupt government.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 8:36 AM Wilson Visitor said...

One cold December day in 2011, I visited the Register of Deeds office to find the work environment so warm that I had to remove my coat and sweater. I left to investigate a bill at Wilson Energy, here again the temp was very warm for the employees. It wasn't until I stopped at a local Wilson restaurant that I noticed the temp was cool. Isn't it interesting that city owned buildings are kept very warm for their employees with tax payer dollars and private business have to keep the thermostat set low.

Monday, January 23, 2012 at 2:18 PM dave said...

I think they are much too high in deed

Friday, January 20, 2012 at 4:12 PM Bob said...

In the Monday 1/16 N&O an article stated that natural gas futures are at their lowest levels in years-$2.65 per 1000 cubic feet. Wilson energy charges between $1.204 and $1.265 per 100 cubic feet (from their website).Even with doubling the the futures prices you don't have a Phd in mathematics to see that WE is gouging the gas customers.
WE has no interst in energy conservation. They're claim to fame is a flyer with the bill suggesting you turn up (or down) your thermostat. My son lives in the Northeast. His utility is paying for a complete home energy audit, which includes house pressurization. No matter what the household income is, you can get an interest free loan for up to seven years to pay for energy saving improvements.

Friday, January 20, 2012 at 12:13 PM Infamous December Bill said...

and the verdict is in...very mild December, in the county, dry my clothes outside, all new insulation throughout home...and my December bill STILL JUMPS $200.00 a month. Same bill last December COW said it was cause it was so cold...what's their excuse this year??

Monday, January 16, 2012 at 11:15 AM Debra Reed said...

Yes, my bill is unusually high. It has been that way for the last 7 or 8 months. All of a sudden it went from around $30.00 a month to around $95.00 - $100.00 a month. And to add insult to injury I had a toilet leak one month which came to about $560.00 of which they forgave after the leak was fixed of only $270.00 of that. I do not understand their billing scale which changed all of a sudden. I feel that there is no way of controlling my water utilities like I could before. The charges could amount to anything they want it to be without no recourse. I am at their mercy right now because it is unexplainable. During the summer I didn't even water my lawn and we had a drought all summer long which turned my lawn brown and my water bill was higher then ever. I don't understand and I wish an impartial and thorough investigation be conducted. Something is terribly wrong to put hard working poor people under this type of oppression.

Friday, January 13, 2012 at 3:28 PM TOHIGH said...

THANK THE LORD WE HAVE HAD A MILE WINTER SO FAR, BUT EVEN THE REG LIGHT BILL IS TOO HIGH, AND FOR SOME OF THE UTILITY CLERKS LIKE THE MANAGER GETS PAID FOR NOTHING, THEY NEED TO LOOK INTO HER JOB AND WHY SHE IS PAID NOT TO WORK, HER MAIN THING IS TO MAKE SURE NONE OF THE EMPLOYEES HELP ANYONE, LOOK INTO THIS HEARTLESS PERSON AND MAYBE TRYING TO GET THE REG $4-500 LIGHT BILL WOULD'NT FEEL SO BAD, SORRY BUT SOMEONE NEED TO REALY LOOK INTO THIS, MAYBE IF WE ALL MAKE THIS SUGGESTION IT WILL GET DONE. THANK YOU

Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 11:17 AM SANDRA said...

YES, WAY TO HIGH & SO MANY OTHER COST ADDED IN THE TOTAL BILL . WILSON CO IS ONE OF IF NOT THE MOST EXPENSIVE PLACE TO LIVE ( CITY & CO TAX INCLUDED )IN NC .WHAT IS GOING ON ? FOLKS ARE STRUGGLING JUST TO GET BY & THEN THESE HIGH UTILITY BILLS , ITS JUST MORE THAN SOME CAN HANDLE.

Monday, January 09, 2012 at 3:00 PM D. Poole said...

Someone needs to do an independent forensic audit on our city, our utilities, and Greenlight. No doubt you will see plenty of money magically vanishing from our city's reserves/untilities and into Greenlight.
Wish everyone the best who is plagued by our energy bills. You must demand an independent forensic audit here. You will be shocked where all YOUR money flows.

Monday, January 09, 2012 at 10:34 PM Denise said...

yes these utility bills are extremely to high just as high as the rent how can we keep living this way... and do these comments even matter

Monday, January 09, 2012 at 9:22 PM Cold on Jayne Lane said...

Our lights went out last night.. when I called the Electric division they said that it was because its the coldest night of the year so far and many people used more power.. the thing is, I have lived here for several heres and this is the first time the extra pull on a cold night as left us with no power....we were without power for like 5 hours... man it got cold in this house

Thursday, January 05, 2012 at 11:17 PM It is about the debt... said...

Folks... it is about the risk that was taken years ago with the hope that the return on investment would be worth the risk. It is not unusual when taking that kind of risk to have things go differntly then hoped. The RATE is not the issue... the DEBT is and that is not going to change until it is paid off.... let's give the local leaders a break. You may not like them, but that does not mean they are controlling the costs for their benifit. I don't believe any of them get their electric service comped.

Monday, January 02, 2012 at 9:57 AM Scott said...

PEOPLE!!!! I agree with all the issues with the high cost of utilities. But as I read every one's comments, I found that mostly every one complains about the rate of the electricity. At $0.13 1/2 cents per KW., that is really not all that high as compared to the rest of the nation. Now grant it, it should be lower, but it is not really the problems with the utility bills here. Water & wast treatment is really out of control! Gas is crazy! Not to mention the little nickle & dime charges for street drain, & such! I went threw my first bill & second with the utilities company & when I hit them with the math & asked them to validate all the charges, they could not do it. I went very high up & still, that person could not explain it all. COME ON PEOPLE!!!! You all complain, but I see no one getting the facts & the right questions together! You all realize that since this is a co-op utilities that we are, in affect, the owners?! That means we have a right to all the books! We have the right to see both running costs & spending?! That we have a right to make Wilson utilities account for all money taken in & spent?! The only way to get this under control is to get together, get the facts & get the right questions formed, then demand as stock holders that they explain everything. Right on down to who gets paid & how much! You can't tell me that their is not one accountant here in the city that is not tired of getting screwed by Wilson utilities that wont help by opening the books & going threw it all with a fine tooth comb to find the truth as a courtesy for us all. We have to work together with the same direction & do it all with facts. I myself am not done with Wilson utilities. What I would like to know is who else is ready to to the work to sort this all out?

Sunday, January 01, 2012 at 6:18 PM Coach Ham said...

If people do not know, now they do. Wilson utilities are just too high. And people in charge don't seem to care. This has been going on for years.I am sure it want change.

Sunday, January 01, 2012 at 3:44 PM disgusted said...

Wilson utilities are extremely high. There is no competition so they adjust the rates as they see fit. Its ridiculous and they should be stopped.

Friday, December 30, 2011 at 8:05 PM December Bill... said...

Ok people...that infamous December bill will be showing up soon with, so far a VERY MILD December upon us....it will be interesting to see what the damage and excuses will be this year for the increase!

Thursday, December 29, 2011 at 9:36 PM jerry barnes said...

to high, with wilson having no jobs everything is just to high from gas to utility bills as well as rent, I can see if we were living some place were the job market was booming, but this is little old wilson, and you guys ask this same question every year at the same time and do nothing about it, but raise our prices even higher,

Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at 8:55 PM Susie said...

Yes, I think the utility bills are outrageous. I moved to Wilson county from Goildsboro where I had Progress Energy and my bill was NEVER over 100.00. My mom lives in a similar size house (in Goldsboro) as we have and her bill last month was 65.00 with Progress Energy.....whereas ours was over 300.00. It gets harder and harder to pay the high rates when your salary sure doesn't go up. In the summer we had a bill for over 600.00!

Monday, December 26, 2011 at 9:39 AM alice kossmann said...

i live at peachtree and our utility bill is always high and never low maybe because we live in this kind of area and i know some friends of mine who lives somewhere else and part of wilson is not as high as we are in this area only this neighborhood that am living in. Over the summer is even much higher than winter it's all season is no different

Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 12:56 PM Staying Away said...

My parents live in Wilson and I am shocked at the high utility rates. Their neighbor is looking to move away from Wilson for the simple reason that the rates are so high. Wilson is a nice town but has little to offer "entertainment" wise. The majority of the people I know who still live there travel out of town for plays, concerts, etc. The high prices of the utilities coupled with the low value of fun things to do around town make moving back to Wilson very undesirable. I'm even encouraging my parents to leave. As to the whirligigs too much money being poured into something that VERY FEW people even know what they are. This world is moving to a fast paced technologically centered society. Young people(tax payers) DO NOT CARE about whirligigs. This will not entice people to move to the area. Spend the money on something else.

Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 9:07 AM Disabled Frustration said...

its all a crock...my home, thanks to the increase on property taxes is valued about 30,000 more than I could ever get for it..tax value...and now a utility bill that even people with good jobs have issues paying..what are you people who run Wilson??? money hungry hogs?

Monday, November 28, 2011 at 7:50 PM Broke said...

Can't believe the utility bills. I don't even run the upstairs heat any more, since my bill was over $800 two years ago. I have to keep the downstairs warm since my sick mother lives with us, but it is difficult to manage the bills. I talk to people in other counties and they don't pay as much as we do. Something is wrong!!!!

Sunday, November 27, 2011 at 4:05 PM Progress said...

Our family moved out of Wilson and one of the reasons were the high utility rates. Wilson government needs to get more creative and stop throwing money at the well connected establishment that always have their hands out. Look what they spend on tourism's fiascos, how much they wasted moving out to 95, and how much they now have spent buying "someone's" building and renovating it, and look at the results? Whirligigs? LOLOL. Look what they spend on preservation of wilson ---and look at the results? Do the math. Look at what they spend on business that incubator. Downtown is a revolving door of businesses. It's pathetic!

Saturday, November 26, 2011 at 7:47 PM Christmas Lights in November said...

I rode through downtown today..during the day and the Christmas lights were on....turn the lights off since we are paying for the extra in December!!!!

Monday, November 21, 2011 at 8:48 PM Disabled Frustration said...

We all try our best to make ends meet.. being disabled makes balancing a budget hard. As high as the utility bill is and how high the property taxes have become i believe we, as paying citizens should get more bang for our buck since we are paying such crazy prices.
i never use my dryer as one way to cut costs, showers are short and never enjoyable, lights are not left on outside, the heat is not turned on, the sweatpants and shirts come out instead. It is not bad to cut costs, but its a shame to live somewhere in which you have to take so many precautions just to save a buck...
It appears the leaders of this city have made crap choices and we are left to hold the bag. It also feels like the council members, or whatever they are titling themselves as now do not give a flip that people are suffering here. The job market is not what it was, and with so many people out of work and the elderly on fixed income then disabled ones like myself trying to pay bills and going without medication that they need.
Shame on you powers that be in Wilson. I pray dearly that you never have to face and shell out all that we do. It is a sad day when your own hometown officials financially rapes you every month. Get off your butts and do something.
Greenlight is wonderful but I would rather have had decent prices than fiber optics

Monday, November 21, 2011 at 7:10 PM Joshua said...

I just recently got a job in Wilson. Was unaware of the high utility bills. Is it cheaper in a neighboring city that's close so I can still commute into Wilson? Is it much cheaper in a place like Elm City?

Saturday, November 19, 2011 at 2:32 PM Lucama Resident said...

Progress Energy's rates are going up in December. Does that mean ours will too now? These rates are out of control.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at 3:08 PM shorty said...

YES THE ELECTRIC, AND THE 50 DIFFERENT WATER THEY CHARGE.IT JUST OUT OF THIS WORLD THAT YOUR BILL IS THIS HIGH. JST WAIT UNTIL THEY ADD THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS DOWN TOWN. WOW WOW WOW.

Saturday, November 12, 2011 at 1:58 AM Christy said...

My light bill is extremely high it runs me about 400 every month and it's ridiculous, the water bill is even high. I don't think it's fair at all that we should have to keep paying these high bills.

Friday, November 11, 2011 at 5:18 PM New to Wilson said...

I moved to Wilson a year ago and was so surprised at how high the utility rates were. Other places I've lived have been as low as $30 for a 500 sqft apartment to $200 a month for a 2000 sqft home. We currently live in a 1000 sqft apt. When we got our bills last winter they were above $250 a month and I couldn't believe it. And that was with the thermostat set at 60. This summer we had it set at 85 because we were so scared at how high the bill was going to be, and it still got as high as $180 a month. It wasn't even worth it to be so uncomfortably hot and have to pay so much money anyway. Not running the heat or air for the past couple of months has dropped the bill to a little over $100. We're going to be as frugal as we can get this winter and hope the bills aren't too outrageous. I wish we had the means to move out of the city but not being familiar with this area I wouldn't even know where to start.

Wednesday, November 09, 2011 at 5:32 PM Scott & Roxanne Tuzil said...

My wife & I just moved to Wilson & bought a historical home this Sept. It's a large home of 3200 sq. ft. It needs a lot of work, so we stayed in our 5th wheel in the back yard & had hook ups put in for it. We had the power turned on, water & garbage. (The gas came later just before we had to leave & was turned off, so no bill on that yet.) Just before we left, we received our first utility bill. The electric was billed for 14 days. That added up to $180.00! Now what got me was that I know what our 5th wheel cost per month at .10 cents per kilowatt. That would be $100.00 plus or minus. When I saw a bill for $180.00 for 14 days, I was shocked! I called the power company right away. They said that they charge .14 cents per kilowatt. So I asked how it is that we could have such a high bill in just two weeks at .14 cents per kilowatt, when at .10 cents per kilowatt before we paid less than that for one month? They had no reason & said that they would have some one come out to read our meter again. I explained that we will be leaving for 3 months in two days & made arrangements to have our neighbor open the gate to let them in to re-read the meter. This was just over a month ago now & they still have not done it. My wife called them again & got the same run around. Our water bill was sky high as well with the cost of use & wast. We have some small leaks under the house, but not major. When I questioned that, I was told that leaks can cause the high bill. Once again, I explained that those tiny leaks can't cause such a high bill & asked why the wast cost is so high? The reasons that I got where very round a bout. I also told them that every time garbage pick up day came, they seemed to have forgotten to pick up ours & that we had to call in to have it picked up. I got no reason for that. Later, when we reluctantly paid our $400.00 plus bill, we found that they removed one of the $25.00 start up costs. They did not say why, so we where happy for that. We are very unhappy with the cost of utilities here. As a good guess, we think that our bill to live in our home will be around $800.00 to $1,000.00 per month and that is if we are frugal! With kids, we are worried as to if we will be able to simply heat or cool our home now. We last lived in California in the east bay & we never heard of bills so high. This is to be our dream home that we spend the rest of our lives in. Finish raising our kids & hope to pass it to them some day. We worry about being house poor with the utilities! Talking to our neighbors, we found that they have the same complaints. The utilities company seems to be dismissive over our concern over the extremely high bill & unwilling to even try to find out why. We feel as if they know that they are the only game in town & have us in a corner.(Take it or leave it!) We love Wilson & the people that we have met, but the utility company.... They are not starting out so good with us.

Monday, November 07, 2011 at 1:14 AM Joe and Charlene Quinn said...

Our utility bill has been out of this world since May/June of this year!
We have now put our house on the market, and one of the main reasons is because of the taxes and the utility bill.
Which has been running in the 600.00 range!
And that is just uncalled for, I don't care
where you live!
The Quinn's
Willow Springs

Monday, October 31, 2011 at 1:56 PM Concerned Citizen said...

I once lived in a county that had a 'membership corporation'. If this is a possibility it should definitely be considered. The months December, January, and February are unusually high. Do the citizens absorb the cost of the city lights at Christmas?

Saturday, October 29, 2011 at 8:30 PM A Williams said...

What can be done and who do the citizens of Wilson talk to about this?? Our electric bill averages 300-350 every month and we're in a 3 bedroom (maybe 975 sq ft) duplex and that is just rediculous! I lived in Raleigh in a larger apartment and my bill was never over $120 with Progress Energy. Where the heck is money we're paying anyway? There isn't anything much to do here to enjoy...at least take the money they're robbing their customers for and build the city! Put some stores in the mall...bring some nice restaurants here...It's ROBBERY and it's WRONG!

Friday, October 28, 2011 at 3:32 PM Carol Wagner said...

Our light bill is always over $500.00!!!!! my neighbor across the street that has the same size house... with the same size family. only difference is they stay home all day, where my and my husband and child are gone all day??? and their light bill is only in the $200.00 's WHY??? I just don't understand that??? AT ALL!!!

Friday, October 28, 2011 at 2:25 PM John E. Smith said...

They are way to high. I moved here from Cary many years ago and these were much higher than in Cary.

Saturday, October 22, 2011 at 12:24 PM Leon said...

My utility bills for the months of July663.00.For the month of August701.00 September703.00.October bill is 315.00.Not only unfair but injustice plus you have limited extension.So why are customer charge a late fee for payment with limited extensions.?

Tuesday, October 18, 2011 at 4:13 PM erica carter said...

My utility bill for September was $452.70 and for October it is $325.94 and I think the utility bills in wilson county are unreasonable and outrageous. I have a small three bedroom apartment and it is rediculous for my utility bill to average $400.00 monthly. I am a single mother of two and there should be something done about the high utility bills in wilson.

Monday, October 17, 2011 at 8:25 PM Elliott said...

Yes. The utility bills in Wilson County are extremely high.

Monday, October 17, 2011 at 9:59 AM Sophia Wells said...

YES! My utility bill is ALWAYS too high! Every time I go and pay my bill I tell the worker that I HATE Wilson Energy! It should not be my place to pay back a loan that they took out years ago! If I could switch companies, I would. If I could move to Nash County and have Progress Energy, I would. I truly feel that Wilson Energy is taking is for all that they can and I think it is unfair. I wish I knew what to do about the high costs in Wilson.

Sunday, October 16, 2011 at 9:38 PM lucious parnell said...

Incredible utility bills. Like nothing I ever experienced living elsewhere. I can't get by after my utilities are paid up. The city is taking our utility money from the reserve funds and using it for their pet projects. Who is kidding who?

Wednesday, October 12, 2011 at 7:10 AM tommy said...

Lets protest like in these other states. We don't have to take this . Let's organize and bring national attention to this county.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at 4:59 PM "Wilson Resident" said...

I am not understanding why my utility bill continues to be over $400 dollars a month, and then some times $500 or better. The ac/heating unit is always sat the same daily, and never turned off and on continuesly. I would at lease like to meet the other family of whom utility I am helping to pay every month. These big homes over in these big developments like the Country Club for one, there is no way there utility is this high, and if this is going on in the city of Wilson that is so sad. But you know what, thats okay, because the God that I serve see everything, all evil deeds will get their rewards, and I asure you it is not going to be nice. God Bless the City of Wilson, because something is not fair is going on.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at 1:19 PM Sandra Coley said...

Yes my utility bill was too high. Two months in a row. >$450.00. The weird thing is we are doing our best to conserve energy and it does not make a difference. I need to know if I am helping someone else with their utilities. Hint!Hint!

Tuesday, October 04, 2011 at 3:45 PM said...

I've lived in Wilson all my life and now I'm really considering moving out of the Wilson Energy limits because of our RIDICILOUS utility bills? Talk about supporting our home town? Who can do that when your utility bill is more than your mortgage payment and you have to make payments on it. Its time you do something about it!!! Support your community so they can support you.

Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 7:26 AM Lucama Resident said...

Here's a good one for you all-
Two weeks ago I called about a street light being out across from my home. They came out last week and fixed it. On Monday they were out again and now all the lights on the street are off. When I called, they told me that those lights are rented out and they don't know by whom so they turned them all out. So now my street is completely dark at night. Nice thing they have going on there to just turn off all the street lights so now there is a safety hazzard. Wilson Energy needs to get it together. They have no problem charging us high rates and now our street is in the dark.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at 9:48 AM M. Harrell said...

Too high! I had been trying to cut that down and still do understand why too high. I haven't been able to pay this month bill yet. I just have to wait until I get my pay check to be able to pay that.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at 11:11 PM vanessa said...

if you live in wilson you dont even have to ask if it was high yes it was extremly high and someone needs to come in here and investigate and not the people that works on the board now cause i bet there light bill are not high we need help and fast

Monday, September 26, 2011 at 7:34 PM Maura said...

My electric bill was $54 for 733 sq. feet. This seems very high. What do you think?

Monday, September 26, 2011 at 1:16 AM Karen Bowen said...

Wilson's utilities--all of them are incredibly high and make this town unliveable. Greenlight fiber optic gulping down our city coffers through the shell game. I have given up on utilities here.
My son has outfitted us with an ultramodern woodburning heater which will cut my heating costs
this winter. Our light and electric is running off solar pannels on our roof with a utility windmill and storage batteries. I no longer will pay a cent to ripoff utilities. I am no longer interested in turning over my paycheck for utilities.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 11:56 PM M.Ray said...

Our utility bill has been hitting just below $500 for the last 3 months and we are struggling because of it. I honestly don't think the City cares or else they would do something about this. "They" know there is a huge problem. We recently looked for something in the surrounding communities like Sims where I was raised but, it's very hard to find rental decent rental housing for 4 in that area because it get's taken up so fast. There utility rates are awesome! Wished I never left now. People are having to trade in their cars for used cheaper cars, change grocery stores which there isn't anything wrong with that but, when it comes down to having trouble buying your children school clothes; it's time to say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!

Saturday, September 17, 2011 at 1:05 AM S. Warren said...

Bill is $494.00 this month.Budget billing is $430.00 per month. Addtional $512.22 drafted this month for settle up for yr. Avg.per month now would be 473.00. Family & friends in Bailey, Charlotte,Ahoskie & elsewhere have never had a single bill this high & this is our avg. We don't live in a mansion! Lived here all my life. Solution. Move out of this town! What good would it do to complain.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at 2:33 PM CC said...

I have to agree that the rates are too high. Our heat is gas and in the winter, our bill becomes higher then the mortgage itself. To me, that seems unfair and I would hope that for the community they can find a way to CHANGE their way of business. We support the town that we are proud to be a part of and we help our local businesses... shouldn't that go both ways?

Monday, September 12, 2011 at 10:06 AM David White said...

Hi, I was reading the comment logs, and thought I could add something, although, it isn't that helpful! (well, helpful, but not great news!) I looked through the rates of many of the co-ops in the area, and Wilson appears to be the same Kw charge as Pikesville, and one penny more per Kw than most towns in the area, including Fremont, Selma, Clayton, etc. Yes, Progress energy is .04 cheaper, which is significant. The odd part, is the total consumption used. Many commentors here are using around 5,000Kw per month. I know it doesn't feel like it, but that is a staggering amount of electricity! I am green, but my 2200 sq ft home costs me around 200 a month, in California, where we start our billing at the same as you, .14 per Kw, which goes to .22per Kw at just 360 hours, then, to .31, at around 750. Finally, at around 1200 Kw Hours in a billing cycle, we hit .42 cents per Kw, almost three times the rate there. Looking at some of the bills mentioned, they would be in the 750.00 per month range in a arger urban city, where the rates are usually tiered, and almost always higher. CFL's, LED lighting, and Energy Star appliances are a start. The finish is a home energy audit. I know they often cost,and it doesn't appear as if Wilson supports them, but it may be worth the money.

Wednesday, September 07, 2011 at 2:05 PM rosa rowe said...

My bill hasnt been so bad this summer bt in the winter my bill more than doubles. I believe rates are definitely too high. I have heard many others who feel the same way.

Tuesday, September 06, 2011 at 11:35 AM AS said...

Our monthly bill is ridiculous. Our home is 1900 sq ft and a newer home. We had more insulation put in this past year in our attic and our bills are still insane. I work in Raleigh and when I compare my bills to people I work with who are on progress energy and have bigger homes, they cannot believe how high Wilson utilities are. Their elecctric is half of what I pay. This is a big drawback for people to move to this area.

Monday, September 05, 2011 at 9:53 PM Minnie Meeks said...

I don't understand, if you move to another location, and you have a bill from your old location, why can't that bill be put on a payment plan, knowing that the bill from your new address is right around the corner, that's gonna be a lot of money to be paid ou.....money that you might not have and you also have rent due.I mean yall are suppose be up there to help people right.

Sunday, September 04, 2011 at 6:05 PM Debbie said...

Utility rates are way to high in Wilson. I know people who live as close as Sims and their utility bill is half of what ours. Their house 1000 square feet bigger than ours and has huge vaulted ceilings.

Saturday, September 03, 2011 at 4:02 PM LOUIE C CISNEROS said...

I LIVED IN WILSON FOR 5 YEARS, AND FOR 5 YEARS THE POWER BILL HIGH. NOTHING CAN BE DONE, THE POWER COMPANY HAS THE PUBLIC. WHERE ELSE CAN THE PEOPLE BUY POWER FROM!!!

Saturday, September 03, 2011 at 12:40 PM annonymous said...

Yes the rate are way to high. The bad thing is the city will not work with someone that is working a job and still struggling, they suggest social services but social services will not help someone that is working full time with no dependents. Paying 300 dollars a month for lights is outrages! When I called this past month and asked for a 10 day extension I was told I had no more extensions left, the limit is 3 per year and that my lights would be cut off on the cut off date. They still have my deposit from 5 years ago to get my lights turned on. It is a shame that a hard working person can't get any help because I am not on the welfare system. All I needed was an extra 7 days to have the rest of my light bill money. Why are the rates so high? I have family in Nash county and her light bill only runs 90 dollars per month and she is home all day long.

Friday, September 02, 2011 at 7:48 PM michael said...

It would make sense to move to Bailey out of Wilson county due to the difference in electricity costs. My Wilson Energy bill is consistently $700 and higher. I'm sure it discourages people from moving into Wilson and it should be fixed. I believe Electrocities is the company that is sitting back getting rich and from what I understand, all they did was broker the deal between Wilson County officials and Progress Energy. I hope the people that worked for the county and made this arrangement have been fired. It needs to be fixed and fixed soon. My family and I are considering moving out of Wilson County simply due to the cost of electricity.

Friday, September 02, 2011 at 10:46 AM FED UP!! said...

My utility bill has doubled in few months. For the month of May my bill was roughly $325.00 the bill that just cut is $725.00 - what are we supposed to do when our bill meets the amount of our paycheck? This is beyond ridiculous!

Thursday, September 01, 2011 at 6:33 AM kerri utely said...

Wilson's utilities have to be the absolute worst. I have two jobs and can't keep up with those bills. I conserve. Why doesn't the city conserve on it's spending. That Greenlight and all those city "projects" are driving us all to the poorhouse. Isn't there any state consumer laws that can protect us from Wilson. People are being forclosed on becaue they can't stay up with their bills.

Sunday, August 28, 2011 at 5:20 PM Bob R. said...

Electric rates are among the highest for the so-called electric co-ops that were formed to save the customer money. Rocky Mount customers pay 9.5cents a kwh. I have a detached garage/workshop that is metered separately. Wilson Utlilities is charging me 15.5 cents a kwh because it isn't a residence. Absolutely ridiculous! They have absolutely no programs for conserving energy because that would mean they would lose income. Other utilities provide free energy audits, insulation wraps for hot water heaters, etc.

Sunday, August 28, 2011 at 9:31 PM Jaron Burdis said...

This city's utilities are way over the top. It's a known fact they are dipping into the city's money to try to keep of with Greenlight the fiber optic mess.
They are not selling hardly anybody because nobody can afford them. We're paying for this bamboozle and the city's fantastic overspending through our record utility bills. My grandmother kept her electricity off most of the summer and ate can goods to catch up financially. Wilson is bad news. The utilities make this town unliveable. No wonder so many are losing their properties to foreclosure

Friday, August 26, 2011 at 6:03 PM Gary P. said...

Yes, I agree that the city utilities division is charging way their customers too much - especially after you have a water leak like I had last month. They originally charged me over $600.00 for the bill, after my Realtor fixed the leak the previous month, they took care of some of the bill and the city ONLY took care of the wastewater and I still had over $300.00 left to pay. I am outraged. They make you feel like you really don't have any choice and you are forced to pay it. My bill usually runs me about $150.00 per month, I currently live in a 2-story apartment and I know how to save wherever I can, so my bills will be less every month.

Friday, August 26, 2011 at 4:25 PM Cathy Smith said...

I moved from Raleigh, I thought something was wrong so they came out and checked things for me, nothing wrong, brand new home. My utlities hover around half my mortgage, nothing like that in Raleigh where I owned a home. So I am moving back.

Thursday, August 25, 2011 at 7:53 AM chris said...

too high......enough said!!

Tuesday, August 23, 2011 at 11:46 AM a johnson said...

to high does not beging to discribe the first one we got was alittle over seven hundred dollars. the second was over eight hundred. so we start turning things off and unplugging extra freezer and frigs and still our bill is even higher. come on people what wrong here. people like ourself ca not afford this, need to go back to reading the meter not this electronic stuff.

Sunday, August 21, 2011 at 11:42 AM AK said...

I live in Nash County, not Wilson, but I still have to pay Wilson Energy. I only buy electricity from them, nothing else and my bill has not been less than $250.00 in a year. When I moved into my house six years ago it averaged $80.00 a month. I also have to buy propane for my tank and this runs around $1000. I can't afford a new car payment because of my utility bills.

Thursday, August 18, 2011 at 3:02 PM Gloriane said...

My utility bill was 250. When im barely home and only 2 people live there. My moms utility bill in an actual house with more room and in a bigger city isnt as much as mine.

Thursday, August 18, 2011 at 11:02 AM ALMA NYARKO said...

FOR LAST TWO MONTHS MY WERE 300 OR 334 I THINK IT WERE VERY HIGH EVEN DOE WE HAD VERY HOT DAY IT STAY ON THE SAME TEMPTURE. THANKS

Wednesday, August 17, 2011 at 5:57 PM Kent said......... said...

Im glad i stay in Sims and has progress energy never that high increase.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 1:27 PM Packing up said...

I have been amazed at the utility rates in Wilson since moving here several years ago. The elctric rates speak for themselves, but the water bill here for one month, is what I used to pay for two. And the trash collection - sneaky little increases that never were mention - back home, trash collection was paid as part of city income tax. So we are leaving & going back to sanity - better everything!!!

Friday, August 12, 2011 at 8:39 AM Alex said...

way way to high, one month 185.00 next month 320.00,after that 378.00 and AROUND CHRISTMAS FORGET IT 400.00 or more

Wednesday, August 10, 2011 at 7:57 PM Rene'e said...

$310.00 approx. monthly, yes it is too high!

Tuesday, August 09, 2011 at 1:21 PM I moved said...

In 2001 I had enough of Wilson gouging me. I moved out side of Wilson County. 6 months later, the tax dept. was looking me. Wanted to know where I had moved to.
I spent 5 years in Wilson and saw the rates on every service go up by 50%. Tax money wasted by the barrels. The Mayor walked up to me and asked how things were going since I moved back to Wilson. I let him hold all the problems I was having and how much things were costing and how the city had lied to the citizens of Sherwood Forest when they were annexed. Old Bruce smiled and walked away.
Your only chance to make changes is to vote out everyone of the city council or move outside of Wilson County.
It sure is nice here in Nash Co.
Green Light is not the only thing that is guzzling your tax money.

Monday, August 08, 2011 at 4:07 PM Marsha Hale said...

City of Wilson is hurting it's self when my electric bill is more than my morgage that is a problem. Current bill $488.00 during the winter $900.00. I advise anyone looking to move here to make sure its out of the range of Wilson Electric unless you have money to blow. If the City of Wilson doesn't make some changes soon the budget is going to be the least of thier problems.Wilson might have good companies here but it needs workers to run it and Wilson County is killing the average working family when you can't afford your food for your family because the electric bill was 3x what it should be.It's a shame the surrounding counties like RockyMount electric bills run from $100 to $200 for bigger houses than mine.See anything wrong with this picture?Anyway Wilson County doesn't seem to care and unless we voters take action and fire everyone and start over I don't see nothing changing but a rate increase again.

Monday, August 08, 2011 at 3:31 PM dan pogue said...

The city needs dump some of it's wasteful spending. Our city throws money around like confetti. Greenlight is guzzling our money. How can we live if almost three quarters of our bills go into utilities which we hardly use.

Monday, August 08, 2011 at 5:30 AM SANDRA BATTLE said...

THE RATES ARE TO HIGH. IT SEEN LIKES THE RATES SHOULD DROP DOWN IN THE SUMMER, INSTEAD THE ARE JUST THE SAME AS THE SAME. YOU CAN'T TELL THE DIFFERENT AND YOU DON'T GET A BREAK FOR PAYING HIGH UTILITY BILLS

Sunday, August 07, 2011 at 3:33 PM IRATE said...

$440.00 for a 1300 square ft house. WHAT DO YOU THINK???? HOW ARE PEOPLE SUPPOSED TO LIVE LIKE THIS? WILSON ENERGY IS DRIVING PEOPLE OUT OF THIS CITY. I WILL BE SOON TO FOLLOW!!!! I WILL MOVE ANYWHERE THAT IS IN THE PROGRESS ENERGY DISTRICT. WHAT THEY ARE CHARGING IS WRONG!!!

Sunday, August 07, 2011 at 11:48 AM Dear City of Wilson Manager said...

In these tough financial times, the City of Wilson does NOT need to be using tax money to fund frivilous well connected cronies such as another $50,000 on top of the $150,000 salary already paid to the head of Preservation of Wilson. People in Wilson better wake up and DEMAND our leaders act responsible!

Saturday, August 06, 2011 at 7:32 AM Earl said...

Too high

Tuesday, August 02, 2011 at 1:33 PM carl said...

way too high

Sunday, July 31, 2011 at 6:37 PM More Fed Up said...

Lets protest! Let's shake up some stuff and rattle some bones. It makes no sense but if we do nothing, nothing happens.

Saturday, July 30, 2011 at 6:52 AM Fed Up said...

Its time for a change. The mayor is on the way out and God is blessing us with a new one this year. Wilson is full of it but things are starting to turn around and the people of Wilson will see a change. It started with a new Sheriff and it will continue on with the new Mayor. Change will come Wilson and we can stop paying these ridiculous prices on electricity. I wonder is Bell Meade paying $500 utility bills. Think not!!! What about the Mayor himself!!!!!Picture that.

Saturday, July 30, 2011 at 6:42 AM Philencia Hamilton said...

My utility bill was almost $400. This is the first time ever. Rates are extremely too high and it is because there is no competition and they can charge what they want. You would think that someone would step in and do something about it. I think that this is ridiculous.

Saturday, July 30, 2011 at 6:36 AM bill gormley said...

Wilson has become an unliveable city since Greenlight showed up. The utilities here insane!
Does anyone know of an airconditioned homeless shelter? I can't afford this town and none of my neighbors can either. God bless.

Friday, July 29, 2011 at 4:44 PM Brenda Parr said...

The utility bills are incredible. Nobody elsewhere pays anything like these bills. Everybody knows the city is playing a shell game of major magnitude to cover their debt ridden adventures into fiber optic
and other poor gambles with our money. The NAACP was hollering back in 2010. People can not live under the utility burdens put on us. Is there any ordinances against putting up windmills in our backyards. Seriously.

Monday, July 25, 2011 at 3:51 AM M Cooper said...

You need a second and third job to pay your bill. God forbid you have a medical condition that requires you to have your home relatively cooler. Right now it is a chose between food and electricity. You really can't do without both!

Friday, July 22, 2011 at 4:26 PM Sharon said...

Utility Bill - what a joke. It should be called Bend Over and Take It bill. How can someone's bill change by over $200.00 and do NOTHING different than the month before? We need someone to closely look into this and make things fair for all! Not just charge what they feel they want to charge.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at 12:22 PM Tod Franke said...

Beverly, you have some good points there. But the people in this town do have a way out of this
city made trap. Change city hall. Vote them out of office. Dump some of these money eaters through political action. Greenlight needs to be sold off before it disembows Wilson entirely. That's worked elsewhere.

Saturday, July 09, 2011 at 9:47 PM Beverly said...

I would like to add one more thing to this topic. Everyone offers all these tips on how to conserve so we can cut back on our electric and water bills. Most of us have cut back to the point of doing without. What happens when people cut back, is the city's revenue drops. The city then isn't getting as much money as a result of people trying to conserve. Then the city gives us a nice healthy rate hike to cover what they aren't getting. People aren't stupid. The city isn't going to take a loss just because we try to cut back. How do you fight that?

Friday, July 08, 2011 at 11:01 AM Beverly said...

Y'all think Wilson is bad? Try Stantonsburg. My last bill was $459.83 for less than a month of service. My house is less than 1900 square feet. It's the highest bill I have. They go up 3 to 5% on a regular basis. Who can afford to eat?!

Friday, July 08, 2011 at 10:36 AM Patty Kirkbride said...

My utility bill is incredible for what little I use. I cut down the use of light and AC to the barest minimum. I am away for several months a year. I pay more for utilities than my mortage, car payments,and childcare. This is like nothing I ever experienced living elsewhere. This is a tax and utility bill town if there ever was one.
I have little doubt and neither do my neighbors that Greenlight is milking the city's reserves to the tune of multiple millions. What can we do about it except move?

Tuesday, July 05, 2011 at 4:52 PM Dave Robertson said...

Whoa you ain't kidding about the utilities here. They are the worst. I mean the WORST. The city likes to splurge with our money. It's a known fact that Greenlight takes from city funds. Heck they started the thing with a cool 18 million..from our city funds. Your lights are paying for Greenlight. That's the worst money sink hole going. At the rate these utility rates are going up we'll all be bedding down in a homeless shelter. I kid you not.

Saturday, July 02, 2011 at 11:28 AM Concerned Mother said...

Everything in this town is high!More of us citizens should be concerned about ALL the hidden politics that go on right up under our noses!If you have lived here long enough you know what and who I'm talking about, but it's up to us to improve SOME of the things!

Friday, July 01, 2011 at 4:15 PM j said...

Ive been in wilson 2 months now my first bill was $189 month 2 $373 ....yes thats a big problem!!!

Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at 9:10 PM Charlene B said...

Please stop asking stupid questions? are you serious? When a question is asked like that.. all you can do is say "Yes".

Monday, June 27, 2011 at 5:23 PM Kathy C. Sandifer said...

Energy bills are too high as well as unfair. My bill is usually four to five times higher than those of friends living in rural areas. Also, my bill is usually higher than others whose homes are double my square footage. Likewise, the bills with less activity have been higher than those during peak winter months. I have been informed of incidents when people have tried to make a partial payment but were told to pay all or none. Wilson citizens need relief and assistance with these unjust bills. Thank you.

Sunday, June 26, 2011 at 2:52 PM Bobsled said...

Everyone....just move out of this slum called Wilson, NC..It's not a place to progress in life. Lights all high for this little town! If you know anyone that wants to move here, tell them HECK NO!!

Saturday, June 25, 2011 at 12:19 AM TMW said...

When your utilty bill is the second highest bill you have next to your house payment, I think that speaks for itself.

Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 9:09 AM Bill T said...

Move out of Wilson and let the ones responsible for the high bill's pay them.Bruce Rose serves on the board for the company responsible for the high electric rates.Unseat him as mayor and see how long he remains in that position.He was at Wayne Gays/Johnny Farmers re-election party until he found out he was not going to win and tucked his tail between his legs and came on over to Sheriff Woodards headquaters.Get rid of the good ole boys club.It has a good start with the Sheriffs Office now lets get a new mayor that will help Wilson and its citizens instead of padding their own pockets while people and business is leaving.My light bill is over 100.00 and there is nothing on in my house but a refigerator.No one is even staying there.It's time for another change folks.Get out and vote let them know their reign is OVER. Concerned Voter

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 7:15 PM Moved away said...

Now is your chance, fellow Wilsonians. Bruce Rose has announced another term. Be sure that he is not re-elected. It is time to unseat him. Please work hard for this. He served on the board too long, did too much against Wilson, and must not be re-elected. Make sure of it, please.

Friday, June 17, 2011 at 4:08 AM karen said...

My utility bill goes up and down. I don't think its ever been under $220.00. Its always over $220 and higher. I think its wrong the way they read the utility bills. The worker can set in their vehicle aim some kind of machine toward the meter box and thats the amount an individual owes really?. The city manager needs to make the electrical meter readers get out of their vehicles and walk up to the meters like they did a long time ago to read them. I wonder really if everyones utility bill is really what they say it is. The rates are unfair and too high. I wonder who profits the most. Thank you.

Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 9:20 AM kristy said...

It would be nice if they actually published the rate on the bill each month.

Saturday, June 11, 2011 at 10:37 PM Mr.Mitchell said...

Wilson county utilities are example of price goughing....charging hard working citizens just because they are in debt. Thats Wilson's fault not the citizens...

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 at 6:24 PM John E. Smith said...

They are way too high. Everyone is hurting. Something must be done, but the hifher powers do not seem to care.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 at 5:13 PM Sims said...

Wilson Energy gives $100,000 to the Arts Council via the united way. That's YOUR money folks. The City gives a Non-employee $50,000 Per Year to put "available for restoration" signs on private homes in the "Historic District" and doesn't live in the Historic district. The City Already employs a historic home specialist. The City's contributions towards the Business Incubator (FAIL) is millions! People need to wake up! Stop the favortism and kick back and nepotism now.

Sunday, June 05, 2011 at 12:55 PM k ellis said...

and they wonder why crime is going up in wilson! we shouldn't have to live this way, wilson leaders should all be thrown out and start new. ALL OF WILSON CITY LEADERS ARE CROOKS AND ARE OUT TO MAKE THEIR SELF RICH!

Thursday, May 26, 2011 at 2:33 PM J NEEL said...

I think its to high. But what can you do but pay it.
there is nowhere else to get your electric from. i have learned to deal with it dont whine and go on.

Sunday, May 22, 2011 at 1:47 AM AMANDA said...

I live in a fairly small home and my utitlity bill has NEVER been under $250 a month. I am only home maybe 3 hours out of the day and my ac/heat unit is turned off at the source so there is NOTHING running while i'm gone. It it UNREAL how everything is being raised EXCEPT peoples incomes. SOMETHING has to give!!!

Thursday, May 19, 2011 at 2:42 PM Lady J said...

My utility bill is outrageous. The rates are too high because everything else is high, and a lot of people have not had a pay raise in about six years. The utility bill is not even due at the same time each month, so then you have different times you have to come up with money to pay your bill. This effects people that get paid once a month. The utility bill is so high you can't budget for it because it is different amounts each month. Half of the time I am not at home and my utilities are still high.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 6:54 PM Wilson Guy said...

Its the same old thing, talk and no action. I'm sure progress energy would love to take over in Wilson, but the Wilson Gods will not allow it because they will lose money in late fees and reconnect fees. We cannot blame them we are the idiots that allow them to do this.

Monday, May 16, 2011 at 8:29 AM Fran Engel said...

Rates for the average electrical customer who uses 1000 kWh hours per month:
Progress Energy $97.45
Smithfield $139.56
Selma $136.17
Benson $138.59
Clayton $135.25
Fremont $136.51
Pikeville $154.65
Wilson $145.00
Louisburg $136.52
Apex $116.93
I've got all of you beat, but I live in Hawaii, on the Big Island where it doesn't get very cold. 1000 kWh = $365. Usual cost for a household in HI here is $150. (This figure represents two households.)

Monday, May 16, 2011 at 7:34 AM unhappy woman said...

the people at the city of wilson have no idea of what they are doing my light bill jumped from 250 to about 475 in a month. The reason i think so is i was wal-mart and a guy was there saying how he was a lead man for the meter readers, and he was bragging about how the city pays him to do nothing. I am a Christian women with 3 kids and that comment really upset me. i'm struggling to make ends meet and this guy finds it funny that the city has money to pay some one to do nothing some one needs to find whats going on down there.

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 at 6:12 PM Phil in Wilson said...

Why can't we just shut down the City of Wilson and simply switch to Progress Energy or some company that does not continue to rob the citizens of Wilson??? It sounds simple!!!

Sunday, May 01, 2011 at 5:42 PM Christopher D. said...

I moved to Wilson in September of 2010 from Knightdale, NC. I live in the same size house I did in Knightdale. My Electric Bill in Knightdale was 95.00 a month or less. My bill here in Wilson???? The first month...$355!!! The second month...$399.89!!!...it continued to go up $25 to $30 a month until January when the bill was...$669.88!!!! The funny thing is no one is home all day and we use a fireplace for heat! There is something totally WRONG!!!! Something needs to be done. The City of Wilson is robbing us blind. Call the ACLU and tell them what is going on. Call the NAACP. They love to fight things like this. Sue the City! Impeach Mayor Rose and those in City Counsel!

Friday, April 29, 2011 at 9:30 PM GUS said...

WHAT? WILSON'S UTILITY RATES ARE TOO HIGH? YOU HAVE GOT TO BE DRINKING TO MUCH KOOL-AID. YOU KNOW OUR WONDERFUL,BENEVOLENT,ALL CARING,PENNY PINCHING CITY LEADERS WOULD NEVER LET THIS HAPPEN.
JUST BE HAPPY YOU LIVE IN WILSON. GO SPEND $10-15K INSULATING YOUR HOME, SPEND ANOTHER $5K REPLACING ALL YOUR OLD WINDOWS FOR THE NEW ENERGY EFFICIENT TYPE, BUY A NEW WOOL COAT TO WEAR AROUND THE HOUSE IN THE WINTER INSTEAD OF TURNING UP YOUR HEAT. BUY YOU SOME SKIMPY SHORTS AND FLIP FLOPS TO WEAR AROUND THE HOUSE IN THE SUMMER INSTEAD OF TURNING ON THE AC.
DON'T COMPLAIN. OUR MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL ARE GOING TO TAKE REAAALLL GOOOOD CARE OF US. SEE YOU IN THE POOR HOUSE! MAN ALIVE-- I'M SO GLAD I LIVE IN WILSON!!!

Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 4:30 PM Deborah said...

Yes my rates are way to expensive with the square footage I have & my landlord pay for my water so what's the excuse now???? My main concern is a friend of mine always pay $500 to $700 monthly and she's never used her stove...barely home cause she has to work 2 jobs...come on now and it's been this way for 10 years she can't afford to move because she still will have to pay the old bills...well she will be another good law obbiding citizen this county will loose cause her daughter is graduating this year and I don't blame her I would be out of here also...Get it together Wilson County.

Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at 12:59 PM Wilson is NUTS!! said...

The reason we can't have our bills reduced is cause The Mayor spends $1 Million dollars on a chicken plant in Nash County?!?!? It's past time to get him out of office!! He has hurt us more than help!! They can reduce the electric but won't because they are making more $$$. This is crazy!! We need the right leaders that work for us not for themselves and the rich!! I bet you if someone on Belle Mead wanted something done about the high bills they would do it!!!! Just like stopping Zaxby's from coming to Wilson or putting up a stop light at Belle Mead??? Really??? How many business's and people have to move out of Wilson before someone gets it???

Sunday, April 24, 2011 at 8:22 PM marion suggs said...

The rate in wilson is extremely high compared to thoer in this area.

Friday, April 22, 2011 at 7:31 AM S Barnes said...

No one is hardly home in the day time and my bill is still high, I would like to know what is the problem what are we doing wrong? How can we lower this bill because it is getting out of hand tooo high need help?

Thursday, April 21, 2011 at 11:17 PM Clarence Harrell said...

I recently reclaimed my home after a year as a rental property. I had the utility bill in my name to keep track of it. The renters left over six hundred dollars unpaid, which I paid, totalled $797. After the first bill I called WE to complain about the high bill and was told that a re-read would be done and that I would be called afterwards. In the meantime a second bill came and it too was higher than expected. Afterall, no one was in the house since I paid the bill. So I called WE again and requested that they turn off the gas, since it was the highest part of the bill. When I returned to the house over the weekend, they had cut off all of the utilities, except water. I called and asked for an explanation and was told that it was cut off for non-payment. OBTW, still waiting for the re-read. When I asked if they sent a turn-off notice, I was told that it was a courtesy to send a turn-off notice by one person and that one was sent to my P.O. Box in Maryland, but was returned. Come on, a P.O. Box that is active returning mail? I have read some of the blogs on WE and I find it disturbimg that they are charging some 50 percent more that other providers.

Monday, April 18, 2011 at 10:51 AM U Can Do It said...

The famous quote: United We Stand - Divided We Fall!! There is a solution to your high utility bills BUT everyone has to stand together to show force!! Don't pay your bill! Let them cut out everyones lights - they in turn get NOTHING!! They could go with cheaper companies IF they wanted too. Somebody is getting the ROYAL treatment off of you people! You should also be thankful they don't have anything to do with the gas prices!! :)

Saturday, April 16, 2011 at 3:36 AM Jme said...

I recently moved to Greensboro NC and got my first light bill I was in ahhh with delight to see a light bill for $53.29 and a gas bill for $46.16. I had to call the company to make sure it wasn't an error. The rep assured me it was correct for a 30 day billing cycle, so $100 for lights and gas 1800 sq ft up and down stairs. I can definately live with that. Wilson Co. Needs to take lessons on what the big cities are doing.

Thursday, April 14, 2011 at 10:03 AM Always struggle said...

as usual, most of the residents of Wilson Co. struggle with their utility bill. I have lived here all of my life and my husband since he and I have been married which is 24 years. For the first time since we have been married, our January and February utilities bill were not paid BEFORE the due date but AFTER the due date. It has been maybe a little more than a year we have all been commenting here, is anyone that can bring about change reading the comments? We love Wilson but every year we think is this year we will make a change.

Saturday, April 09, 2011 at 7:24 PM Way too expensive! said...

Not EVERYONE is lucky enough to make $165.000 per year in Wilson. Or live in Bell Meade! The majority of people live below or at the Poverty Level in Wilson. Where are the jobs??? I guess our City leaders work for the rich only? Why don't they DO SOMETHING about this situation???

Saturday, April 09, 2011 at 1:01 PM joy said...

The rates are very high. Since moving into my home the rates have increased so much and a monthly bill that use to be manageable is now impossible. We now dress warmly when its cold to save and we do not use the dryer unless its sheets or towels. when it gets hot we will have to forego the comfort of home... perhaps sit in walmart and enjoy their ac

Thursday, April 07, 2011 at 3:22 AM PRESTON said...

YES I THINK THE LIGHT BILLS ARE TO HIGH AND I KNOW WHY BUT THATS ANOTHER STORY. I THINK THEY NEED ANOTHER ELECTRICT COMPONY AROUND HERE TO GIVE THIS TOWN SOME COMPOTITION AROUND HERE. THIS IS WHY NO JOBS WANT TO RELOCATE AROUND HERE AND IF THEY DO THEY TRY TO FIGHT IT.IT USE TO BE EASY TO FIND A JOB AROUND HERE NOW THE ONLY THING WE REALLY HAVE AROUND HERE IS MORE RESTERANTS THAT WE OR SOME OR MOST PEOPLE CANT AFFORD.

Monday, April 04, 2011 at 7:05 PM ELLA said...

MY LIGHT BILL IS TO HIGHT 337.00 TAHT ALL I GET IS LIHGT I DONT GET WATER OR THEYDONT PICK UP MY TRAST

Monday, April 04, 2011 at 1:58 PM LaToya Taylor said...

I really feel that utility rates are too high. When your utility payment is higher than your mortgage payment, it's a problem. I am currently recieving short term disablity and afraid that I will not be able to have lights, eat, and pay my mortgage. My January bill was $749, and my February bill was $589. I am hoping and praying that things begin to change with our utility payments. If not, I will be homeless because I was trying to keep my home warm and lit.

Friday, April 01, 2011 at 3:25 PM henry hill said...

light bills r jut to high when u don't burn lights allday and u r not at home why is this happen to wilson county residence

Friday, April 01, 2011 at 7:05 AM gettin too high said...

we have a good size house but keep it around 65 and no lights are on during day nothing runs or any of that and we have well water so it dont even go into the bill well ours still runs about 700 a month yes this is way to high when in smithfield for a house the same size that we actually used things and were home all day ran about 250 to 300 maybe

Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at 10:55 AM Tammy said...

I think the utility rates are outrageous! The past two January's everyone's bill shot up at least an extra $100. I kept my heat so low it barely kept the chill off of me and yet my bill still shot up by over $100. in January.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at 1:06 AM Michael said...

I recently moved from Wilson to Johnston Co. I currently still own a house that receives electricity from the City of Wilson. The house is unoccupied and the electricity is on in order for the relator to show the house. My last months bill for the property was $75.58. My electric bill last month for my new residence in Johnston Co. which is 900 sq ft larger and is lived in every day of the month was only $89.17. My service is provided by Progress Energy. Can you tell me why Wilson charges almost the same for a smaller unoccupied residence as Progress Energy charges for larger occupied residence. Who would want to move to Wilson with all its higher rates and lower public services.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at 11:41 PM Fortunate One said...

We never wanted to move, but the City of Wilson forced us out. We will NOT pay these crazy rates for electricity and sit back and listen to your lame excuses that are nothing more then a ploy to buy yourselfs more time and kickbacks. The leadership, yes EVERY SINGLE one of them, are dysfunctional idiots that keep getting elected by equally dumb residents. We escaped this place that is quickly dying around us, City of Wilson, it should be a crime what is happinig to this place and the bad part is, you haven't seen nothing yet. I feel sorry for the people that will be left here! You should be very scared and worried.

Monday, March 28, 2011 at 4:07 PM Liza said...

YES! Wilson Energy electric charges are ridiculous.. Ive lived in and around NC for years and its by far one of the most expensive utility companies around.
Cheaper rates would keep more people in the area!

Sunday, March 27, 2011 at 2:39 PM City Lip Service said...

The City of Wilson should spend as much time on trying to REALLY address the situation-- as opposed to their current inept public-service television productions, (starring over-paid city officials) who ALWAYS put the blame on the citizens not conserving enough. Meanwhile the situation grows dire. People are MOVING out of Wilson. DUH Don't they understand this?? I guess as long as they are getting those $100,000+ pay checks and perks, they don't really give a hoot.

Friday, March 25, 2011 at 6:14 AM Tired & Fed Up said...

Electric bill is at least $500 or more per month nearly as high as our house payment. We keep our thermostat on 64 and are having to wear jackets in the house in the winter and still our electric bill is way too high. Very fed up especially when you hear about county management getting big pay raises during these hard economic times. Wilson residents need to all come together on election day and reelect new city and county leadership.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 6:48 PM kishema taylor said...

My utility bill is ridiculous. Nobody gets home till around 5p.m. and the bill averages around $450-$550 a month. I can't figure out what else to do besides move out of wilson. I hope that there is something being done about this soon.

Friday, March 18, 2011 at 6:23 PM Frustrated said...

Two months ago, my light bill was $600, which it has NEVER been that high. I called the City and they re-read my gas meter, which by the way was a $5 charge. They "so-called" mis-read my meter by $80!!!! I'm sure they never read it to begin with....and then want to charge me a fee to check it!!! RIDICULOUS!!!!!

Thursday, March 17, 2011 at 11:19 AM Deneen/frustrated said...

My utility bill has been over $400.00 within the last two months,I asked for an extension for another week or so, the clerk said it can only hold for 7 days, why does it have to be a certain length of time for a hold if your bill is $400 or more, this is terrible, can't hardly eat for paying utility bills.

Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at 1:44 PM S.Childers said...

Our light bill is NEVER EVER under $500 amonth.Some of our bills have been as high as $847.00.My husband an I both are on disablity.He has MS and I have had several major back surgeries.You tell me how our bill can be this high? We heat with bottle gas,So thats not even on my light bill.We dont over use our electric.That dont make any sense to me.What are we suppose to do?You can only cut back so much and when you are disabled theres no way to get over time or work an extra job to pay the high light bills.You learn to choose between food,medications,an other things you need.No matter what you do the bill just keeps going up.Wilson has to be the blue ribbon winner on being the most greedy town in NC.

Friday, March 11, 2011 at 8:13 AM Stanley mckinney said...

Yes my bill has been too high the last two were 600-800$ thats way too high help

Wednesday, March 09, 2011 at 5:08 PM Note: said...

Le Deux French bistro closed too! So Sad! Couldn't afford the High utility bills!!
Now, the building is for sale. Owner of this building (Drake Theater owners?) is trying to sell it for about 5 times what was paid for it. Greed rules in Wilson!

Monday, March 07, 2011 at 1:42 PM In Christ we trust said...

The Census reflects people MOVING OUT OF WILSON. Why? Because they can't afford to live here! Mismanagement of taxpayer monies abounds!
Drive around Downtown Wilson's Historic districts. People are losing their homes! The City TAXPAYERS are being forced to subsidize a well connected crony -- at $50,000 Per year, (which was paid in advance for 3 years by our City Council) during a fiscal slump, to put signs on falling apart houses that say "Available For Restoration". The city already employs a historic home expert who could do it. What a joke! And it STILL looks like a Ghetto. Ditto the Mexican restaurant. GONE. Everyone on 'preservation' and downtown development should be replaced.

Monday, March 07, 2011 at 9:50 AM Alton H Sugg Jr said...

My wife and I went to visit our daughter in Killeen,texas for 3 months. She is in the army.When we came back home a few dau\ys later the meter reader was replacing our meter.My wife asked way and he said it was broke.No it wasn't,we were not home and I turned our heat down to 68 .Seems to me Wilson will do anything to raise your light and water bill.

Sunday, March 06, 2011 at 4:33 PM Leroy said...

I came across the Info in North Carolina
Bill Would Force Towns To Retire Electrical Debt
Representative Leo Daughtry (R-Smithfield) has introduced a bill in the NC General Assembly requiring towns like Smithfield, Selma, Clayton, and Benson, that purchase their electricity from ElectriCities, to use town electrical funds for that purpose only. Daughtry said some towns transfer profits from their electrical fund into their general fund. “That is a problem for me. That is like taxing a small business without anyone knowing it,” Daughtry told WTSB.
Daughtry said ElectriCities came about because of a bad deal small towns made a long time again. “They made an unwise investment. Interest rates skyrocketed and they now owe hundreds of millions of dollars.”
Under Daughtry’s proposed legislation, municipalities that buy electricity from ElectriCities, would be required to use all electrical profits to help reduce the enormous electrical debit, reduce the electrical rate to residential and business customers, or pay for related expenses, and not for other town expenses like paying for a park. Rep. Daughtry said electrical profits should not be used to pay for any other town expense.
”If you have a small business in Smithfield or Selma, bills are probably 30 percent more than someone in a town not under ElectriCities,” Representative Daughtry said. “Under my bill... you cannot transfer into the general fund for other purposes. It’s common sense we need to get (the) rates competitive.”
Rates for the average electrical customer who uses 1000 kWh hours per month:
Progress Energy $97.45
Smithfield $139.56
Selma $136.17
Benson $138.59
Clayton $135.25
Fremont $136.51
Pikeville $154.65
Wilson $145.00
Louisburg $136.52
Apex $116.93

Saturday, March 05, 2011 at 3:44 PM Ghost Town said...

But yet $1 million can be thrown away on keeping a darn Chicken Plant from coming to create jobs to pay high utility bills. DUH!!!!!

Thursday, March 03, 2011 at 11:29 AM FED UP!!! said...

A person had a $400 plus utility bill and asked to pay half today and the other in two weeks which would have been before the next bill was due. GUESS WHAT!!! The answer was NO. He was told that they would turn his lights off if not paid by the eleventh. He asked for the sixteenth, again before the next bill was due. Now that's ridiculous. I WILL BE SOOO GLAD WHEN ELECTION DAY COMES FOR CITY LEADERSHIP AGAIN!!!!

Thursday, March 03, 2011 at 11:19 AM still too high said...

In Nov., I got a new dishwasher, stove, fridge, washer, and dryer to replace all the ones that were over 15 years old. My central heat and air has not worked in two years. We heat with a wood insert. My electric bill is still over $300 which is three times what it used to be up until about 2 - 3 years ago. All of my lights are the energy efficient bulbs. We are only home at night, so why is my bill still so high?

Tuesday, March 01, 2011 at 10:13 AM thomas young said...

yes it is to high especially when people don't make any money on their jobs in Wilson, and the Gas prices goes up. and it takes half of your paycheck to go back and forth to work. something has to give or people gonna live like in the old days by using candles. and having mules and wagons for transportation.

Tuesday, March 01, 2011 at 10:58 PM Angie said...

I live in a 3 bedroom apt and my light bill was $660..NO one is ever there and I had my heat off..The mayor or someone need to do something about that!! I basically paid rent 2x and I can't afford that!!!I guess I need to look for something else where..Pretty soon Wilson will be a ghost town

Monday, February 28, 2011 at 3:18 PM Anna said...

Of course rates are too high! When your bill jumps $150 plus in a month and you haven't changed the thermostat or even dropped it some...something doesn't add up.

Monday, February 28, 2011 at 9:53 AM Trey Pittman said...

My wife and I live in an apartment. Our light bill was $289 this month, and last month it was $379. We keep our thermostat on 67 for like the last couple of months. Our bill should'nt be no more than like $175-$200 a month. Dats why we are thinking bout movin to Nash county.

Friday, February 25, 2011 at 3:05 PM Emily said...

My husband and I own a 1600 square foot house in Wilson, and it's just the 2 two of us and the dog. This past month our electric bill was $502. Water and waste water were $300 of it. What in the world? This is crazy, our bill was nearly what our mortgage is!

Friday, February 25, 2011 at 9:24 AM Nadia Minniti said...

After having the house winterized by the Martin County agency, my bills are still high and my house still drafty. There is no change. What a rip off...

Friday, February 25, 2011 at 5:55 AM Susan said...

I have lived in Greenville, Kinston, and Durham, and never have my power bills been as exorbitant as with Wilson Energy. I'm on a limited budget and for the past 2 months, my power bills have surpassed my rent (once almost $574 and this month $430). I realize that it is expected for a light bill to increase in the winter months, but this seems unusually high, bordering on criminal. I just don't think my bill is that high. I think the bills are being inflated on purpose. Someone is pocketing the extra. Of course, I can't prove it, but I have a feeling someone will and the truth will come out. Could we bring a class action suit against WE? I honestly believe that those in high positions at WE are engaging in illegal activity of some sort. I don't think it's just a matter of higher bills. This will continue until someone takes a stand by investigating this problem.
I kept my thermostat on 65. Wilson Energy suggested I cut it back to 62. My next plan is to have no heat in order to pay for essentials. I told the individual who took my call (aka someone who has no power or real knowledge of what's going on) that I might as well sleep outside in a tent.

Thursday, February 24, 2011 at 6:15 PM stephanie said...

I live in Wilson in a 1700 sq ft. house my bill is always between $290.00 to $ 500.00 average $347.00. My brother in law lives in Nash Co. in a 3300 sq. ft. house his bill averages $191.00. We are getting screwed in Wilson.

Thursday, February 24, 2011 at 11:28 PM Really??? said...

OK, so, I had a toilet that leaked for about 1 month or so, didn't think nothing of it, but I forgot what state I live in! I informed my landlord (very happy to NOT be a home owner, until now) on January 4th. Why I know this date specifically you ask, well, b/c I saw him in Walmart as I was getting the money order for my rent. Anywho, he never showed. Low and behold, I get my Wilson Energy bill.....make sure you're sitting down for this.....the Water & Wastewater totaled....$1,110.00!!!!!!!!! *My heart dropped as I typed it* Anywho, so I informed my landlord that I had an extremely high water bill due to the leaky toilet that I asked him over a month ago to come fix...he said "THERE'S NOTHING I CAN DO ABOUT YOUR BILL!"....Really, are you serious??? And he responded, "Yes, there's nothing I can do!" I was told by someone that if I let Wilson Energy know that I had a leaky toilet and that my landlord fixed it, if I had an invoice showing so, I would get an adjustment. And it was...the Water & Wastewater now totals $570.00! Really????? I was told by a rep at Wilson Energy that the adjustment could not be to the Water (regular) of my bill!!!!! Excuse me??? I think I need to get 5/7/11/13 on my side, real quick!!! I sooooooo miss NEW JERSEY!!!

Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 4:12 PM Worried said...

To Worried...We did the same thing with our heat...We bought $200.00 worth of propane gas and installed a gas wall unit so we would not have to run our electric heat at all....Our light bill wen UP $300.00...During the meantime the city is spending more and more money for stupid PET PROJECTS that they think is gonna bring bring people in...Who really cares about the Whirly gigs, sanderson farm lawsuit, and Fleming Stadium getting boxed seats at the cost of the taxpayers, when we are struggling to make ends meet. Take the millions that are being spent on these and LOWER THE LIGHT BILLS!!!!!!!!

Monday, February 21, 2011 at 6:57 AM crazy said...

this is really getting readiculous its been going on for a while now my utilility bill was 950 dls so we desided to go to my moms house and not used out electricity at all we still got a $750 dls light bill whats wrong with you guys my light bill its more than my mortgage we need help please help us

Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 8:29 AM WORRIED.... said...

AFTER JAN BILL WE RECD THAT WAS REALLY HIGH, WE DECIDED TO NOT RUN THE HEAT AT ALL. WE HAVE 2 KIDS AND WE JUST STAY WRAPPED UP. TRYING VERY HARD TO CONSERVE, AND THEN HERE WE GO AGAIN IN FEB HAVE ANOTHER BILL THAT I HAVE NO IDEA HOW WE ARE GONNA PAY AND EAT AND AFFORD GAS TO GET BACK AND FORTH TO WORK AND SCHOOL, NOT TOO MENTION HAVE ENOUGH FOR LUNCH MONEY FOR THE KIDS. ITS GETTING REALLY SCARY. EITHER PAY YOUR MTG OR LIGHT BILL... NEED THEM BOTH AND LIGHTS ARE HIGHER THAN MORTGAGE! TOTALLY DISGUSTED! I REALLY WISH THAT MAYBE SOMEONE WOULD READ THESE COMMENTS AND ACTUALLY DO SOMETHING ABOUT THEM.

Friday, February 18, 2011 at 4:43 PM michael atkinson said...

when no one is home all day ,and i run my heat through two cycles at night and shut it off everyday and get a light bill for 326 dollars ,yes i think there is something seriously wrong ,and i live in a two bedroom apartment 2211 d candlewood dr ,i believe i am going to have to move if nothing changes leave wilson all together

Wednesday, February 16, 2011 at 7:51 AM said...

the electric bills are way to high, we need a break,plus taxes are way to high,the poor get poorer & the rich will always be rich

Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 12:42 PM Angela said...

Yes they are too high, and its not fair. Wilson energy need to stop robbing folks.

Monday, February 14, 2011 at 12:18 PM These Rates are Criminal! said...

I don't know what's more counterproductive in bringing progress, people and jobs to Wilson. Exploiting criminals mug-shots, or the obscene Utility rates Wilson Energy is charging? Yet all we STILL hear from our Town Council and other official talking heads are EXCUSES.

Monday, February 14, 2011 at 8:31 AM Jen said...

I read everyone elses comments and most ask the question where did all our money go??
Did you not read this weeks article about the Pay Increases Gay and Williford recieved!! Tada - the city had to fund that huge pay hike some how!!!

Friday, February 11, 2011 at 8:03 AM Jen said...

My light bill the last few months has been outrageous! Running between $500 and $650 per month. My family and I try hard to conserve energy as much as possible - even watching TV in our bedrooms because we have to run the heat more to warm the front of the house. My Wilson bill is $150.00 more per month than that of my parents who are with Progress Energy for the same size house.

Friday, February 11, 2011 at 7:59 AM Beth parker said...

My utility bill was $200.00 higher last month than the month before. When a utility bill for a medium size home is just below $600.00 for one month, it is ridiculous! The City of Wilson rates are way too high and they are driving people to look elsewhere to live.

Friday, February 11, 2011 at 9:51 PM bent over said...

my bill was higher than a hippie at mary jane rally! Fair... there is nothing wrong with a light bill that costs more than your morgage!
My water bill went down,(county) and my Electric
jumped way up,(Wilson). WELCOME to Wilson.

Thursday, February 10, 2011 at 6:24 PM taken advantage of says said...

yes, our light bill was too high!!! What is the city doing with all of our money? Oh I know, using it to fight Sanderson Farms! Along with many other things I'm sure that are not neccesary! I live out in the county and noone is concerned when we have people just DUMPING their trash anywhere they want. Don't you think that is an environmental problem? Just take a drive around our county and take a look at all the environmental problems we have and can take care of ourselves WITHOUT using our tax dollars!!!

Wednesday, February 09, 2011 at 7:08 PM The love of money is the root of ALL evil said...

It's so unfortunate that the city of wilson is under such a budget crunch and all. (sarcastic) The light bills are ASTRONOMICAL. No one wants to move here and the ones that are already here are wanting to leave. We have NO job industry or TAX base. Some of the highest unemployment, highest utility bills, and highest taxes. The employees of the City, county,state and private sector working with NO pay raises. While the HEADS of these organizations are getting theirs. Some of these employees have even had their pay reduced. Budget crunch my foot, the city is in the midst of a lawsuit where they gladly gave millions to fight. Spending money to move the whirly gigs to Wilson. Spending MORE money to renovate AGAIN the TOBS stadium ($2,000,000), while some of their employees have been moved out of a fire station that was tested positive for the top 3 deadly molds and have been moved into another substandard building and no one seems to care. It's sad when employees that risk their lives everyday are overlooked and pretty much being ignored. Where is the money for this!!! Now when is this going to stop, didn't have to scratch your head to buy into electricities and rob us residents blind and didn't hesistate one minute to spend millions on your PET PROJECTS.

Tuesday, February 08, 2011 at 6:46 AM Michael Carper said...

My utility bill was #374 last month for a fairly new well-insulated house. Of course they are too high! That's the result of having the government involved - period. I have a co-worker who is selling a $700,000 house in Greensboro and moving to the area but they WILL NOT BUY IN WILSON because of the absurd energy rates. Can they afford it? Of course but like the rest of us they do not have any desire to be exploited.

Monday, February 07, 2011 at 10:46 AM chuck said...

my light bill was 169.00 last mounth this mounth it was 369.00 that is almost half my total income i think we need to cut the pay of city employees by 200.00 a weak to help poor people

Monday, February 07, 2011 at 12:46 AM said...

http://www.newsobserver.com/2011/02/05/969137/mayors-eye-utilities-merger.html
also in Charlotte Observer.
These mayors are right to try to get on this issue now. About time.

Saturday, February 05, 2011 at 12:03 PM Karen said...

Yes! My 3000 sq foot house costs $500 and it is one year old and well insulated. A comparable in Raleigh costs about $150 on Progress Energy.
I looked up the strategic plan mentioned below and I agree. That is a huge waste of money. Why print a strategic plan? Just save money, lay off people and reduce costs.

Saturday, February 05, 2011 at 10:18 AM yes they are said...

City Manager Grant Goings asked if NCEMPA cities, including Wilson, would be in better standing in future years if new nuclear plants were built by electric corporations. The last nuclear plant built in the United States was the Shearon Harris plant. NCEMPA cities joined with CP&L and took on debt to build the plant but, in turn, purchase electricity and sell it at wholesale rates to customers.
"Any utility that builds new nuclear, their rates are going to have to go up because it's expensive," Edwards said. "I think it will go up and our rates will remain stable."
THIS GUYS IS NOT COMPETENT. I THINK DUKE ENERGY WILL BE ABLE TO AFFORD IT AND I THINK THE UTILITIES COMMISSION WILL NOT CAUSE THEIR RATES TO GO UP. WE, ON THE OTHER HAND, DO NOT GET REVIEWED BY THE UTILTIIES COMMISSION> WE HAVE BRUCE ROSE.

Saturday, February 05, 2011 at 11:55 PM Milton said...

YES!!!
http://www.electricities.com/Default/NewsEven...
This group is spending our money AGAIN. this time on a slick document that cost a bundle and says they will "obey the law" - what a joke. These idiots are still out of control. They don't need to print a strategic plan. they need to find a buyer and get the heck out of our wallets
GET RID OF WORTHLESS LOBBYISTS AND COMMUNICATIONS PEOPLE WHO WASTE MONEY AND THAT IS A STRATEGIC PLAN WE CAN FOLLOW
ATTEND MONDAY NIGHT IN KINSTON

Saturday, February 05, 2011 at 11:13 PM Darren said...

MY bill was $4000 and my brother in Raleigh has the same size house, same year, same insulation and his was $150
And then I read this garbage
http://www.electricities.com/Default/NewsEven...
This group is spending our money AGAIN. this time on a slick document that cost a bundle and says they will "obey the law" - what a joke. These idiots are still out of control. They don't need to print a strategic plan. they need to find a buyer and get the heck out of our wallets
GET RID OF WORTHLESS LOBBYISTS AND COMMUNICATIONS PEOPLE WHO WASTE MONEY AND THAT IS A STRATEGIC PLAN WE CAN FOLLOW
ATTEND MONDAY NIGHT IN KINSTON and speak out
And how did Mayor Bruce Rose get the blogs shut down here - is he mubarack?

Saturday, February 05, 2011 at 11:13 PM S. Taylor said...

OMG Have never seen anything like it. Compared to my son's home approx the same size $150 diff. And my mother in law who does not even stay at her home is ridiculous!

Friday, February 04, 2011 at 2:35 PM said...

Wilson rates are too HIGH. I own a business in Wilson and know someone in Rocky Mount that ownes a business and the buildings are about the same size and we run the same equipment but the Rocky MOunt utility bill averages no more than $800 and our Wilson one averages $1,300. that is a huge difference!

Friday, February 04, 2011 at 1:01 PM Craig Danielson said...

I live in a 2-bedroom apartment and I just received my electric bill. $517.00 ? Wilson Energy is just a bunch of crooks. I keep my thermostat set on 65. NO WAY. Advice to anyone planning on moving to Wilson....turnback..move to Bailey or Rocky Mount.

Thursday, February 03, 2011 at 5:41 PM clinton c powell said...

Yea its to high i just dont think the way they read your meter is not fair.For example me and my fam went on vacation for 14days in dec.I cut all power of in my home .hot water heat ,i unplugged all t.v.s,in so many words the only thing i lf. on was my refridge.Plus i have put up a fence to keep thevies out of my back yard so how did my meter man read my meter .he jump over a 6foot fence .now i want the city to explain how my light bill jump up a extra 150.00 more than normal.But u never here city workers complaining abt their bills why is that.I get discount on tires bcause i work at a tire plant.Do they get discount on lightbills.if so i give them my tire discount for a lightbill discount any day.

Thursday, February 03, 2011 at 4:10 PM JT said...

I live in Rocky Mount in a 4000 sq foot house.My electric bill was less than $275 for December. I moved out of Wilson because of the high taxes and electric bills.

Thursday, February 03, 2011 at 3:57 PM Linda said...

people, people, people, you who live in city are paying for those christmas lights. you have no choice, and the one who commented on remember them on election day, people forget, lazy and pick the same name and familiar face. Human race is so stupid and I am amaze how these genes seem to carry on in soceity.

Thursday, February 03, 2011 at 3:30 PM JP said...

Wilson residents pay a 40% premium on utilities due to 2 distinct and seperate issues. First, the county subsidizes ALL large business in Wilson and they pay pennies on the dollar for their energy. Second, our smothering debt to electricities is out of control and adds ridiculous premiums to our bills. Big business gets utility breaks as our bills break our backs.

Wednesday, February 02, 2011 at 3:04 PM RE said...

I COME HOME TO FIND THEM REPLACING MY METER,IT WAS BROKE AND FULL WATER AND MUD, SO YOU TELL ME HOW THEY HAVE BEEN READING IT RIGHT I GUESS THEY HAVE BEEN JUST GUESSING AT IT. YOU THINK THEY CALLED TO LET ME KNOW IT WAS BROKE NO. MY BILL WENT FROM 163 TO 243 ,NOW ITS 526. AND THEY HAVE THE NERVE TO CHARGE LATE FEES!!! GET REAL

Wednesday, February 02, 2011 at 1:06 PM J said...

We keep our thermostat between 66-68 and our utility bill was over $400...our gas was more than our electricity and we HARDLY EVER use our gas logs. It doesn't make sense!

Tuesday, February 01, 2011 at 10:39 AM DIANE BOWMAN said...

I THINK THAT THE UTILITY RATES ARE TOO HIGH--WE PAY ENOUGH IN LOCAL TAXES THAT THE RATES SHOULD BE LOWER.

Monday, January 31, 2011 at 4:38 PM Eric barnes said...

My utility Bill was 931.00 last month and said the meter was right i know i ran my thermostat on 68 to 66 what i need to do cut it off to get a 300 light bill this is ridicoulous

Monday, January 31, 2011 at 11:01 AM to mb mac said...

there wasn't a city council race last November

Monday, January 31, 2011 at 9:06 PM evelyn adams said...

i burned less kilowatts this month than last month and my bill double, i don,t understand why

Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 7:36 PM amanda said...

I think utility bills are too high. My light bill went from 150 to about 250 and more.

Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 10:05 AM shorty said...

My bill for December was only $78 (we live in a 1 bedroom apartment in Thornberry Park on the 3rd level)...then my bill for January was $110. I'm a little nervous to get February's bill. You all might be jealous of how cheap my bill is - but you know what? We don't even turn on our heat in fear of getting a $300 bill. There is no way I will purchase a home in Wilson County, for now renting is the way to go!

Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 11:37 PM MB MAC said...

Just remember the canadates for city council last November and the empty promises that they made... they have done absolutly nothing about this situation. Remember that come next election. Wilson will pay for this, and pass along to the citizens the cost of not dealing with this issue.

Friday, January 28, 2011 at 6:17 PM said...

We are paying double to cover the cost for the purchase that Wilson Energy made. It is ridiculous to have a bill that is over 300.00 and your heat is set at the lmid 60s. Homes with these outrageous rates arent mansions, they are 1200-1500 Sq. Ft. It is a shame that in this day in time you have to live more uncomfortably and still have these costly energy rates.

Friday, January 28, 2011 at 9:31 AM montrel mcdaniels said...

My utility bill has been at an average of $135-$165 for the last yr or 2, however my bill that is due on February 14th iis $306 and during the month I worked more overtime & spent less time at home....THIS IS NOT RIGHT!

Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 10:48 AM Archie Artis said...

I think our rates are too High!! last months bill:149. this months bill: 358. discouraging!!

Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 9:32 AM said...

light bill is always really really too high it dont make any scence some people light bill higher than ther rent but every year you or who ever want to hear about it but there is nuthin done about it as usual same old thing ---wilson energy wins because they know you have to have heat concern TAXPAYER AND ALSO THE TAXES HERE ARE CRAZY TOO BUT O-WELL IT IS WHAT IT IS

Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at 12:37 PM Debi Newsome said...

Got my bill Saturday. $508 & I did not cook a single, pie, cake, cookie or piece of candy for the holidays.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at 12:26 PM Jennifer Marcus said...

My electric bill has been running at 300-400 a month. How is a person that is low income supposed to pay that high a bill?

Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at 11:55 AM Jill Conkwright said...

Too HIGH.....I can only comment on anecdotal evidence from family living in other areas of the state and their utility bills in homes in colder climates and larger homes than mine.....infinitely lower than my utility bill and my house is COLD....not on 70's but on 60's....that is COLD.... what is wrong here in Wilson....is our provider wearing gold chainmail for attire??

Monday, January 24, 2011 at 7:54 AM I GIVE UP said...

We have done everything recommended to lower our utility bill - replaced every window, purchased two new energy efficient HVAC systems with programmable thermostats, closed off the upstairs and turned heat off upstairs, use cold water for laundry, warm water to shower, changed to flourscent lighting, purchased new energy efficient kitchen appliances, etc, etc. Every time we make an improvement....we get a higher bill. I called the City of Wilson in October (our electricity was almost doubled that month)and asked to have our meter checked..I was informed that there would be a $5 charge to re-read the meter; so, I asked if the meter could be replaced, was told that it could be replaced. I asked what the charge would be to replace the meter...the reply...NOTHING! Don't quite understand why I pay $5 for a re-read and am charged NOTHING for a new meter...by the way, we never got a new meter...but we had a big increase in this months utility bill...AGAIN! They are now suggesting that I learn to read my meter....how much good will that do, if I do not read the meter the same day the city reads the meter???? I GIVE UP!

Saturday, January 22, 2011 at 7:14 PM tired of being ripped off said...

last month my light bill was 230.00 and for this month it is 385.00. how is it possibly for your light bill to jump 150.00 in 1 month? doesnt make any sense at all! I live in a 2 br apt at that. i love how they send you ADVICE to try to save money on your light bill, like it really matters they charge whatever! W.E. sucks and im tired of being screwed over! Times are hard now and it seems that the light bill just keeps going up! It's not fair at all!

Saturday, January 22, 2011 at 9:26 AM Nancy L. Jones said...

No I don't think its fair. How can your light bill be $180 something one month and the next month $623, how fair is that.

Friday, January 21, 2011 at 8:45 PM Ask the realtors said...

Realtors in Town KNOW why nothing is selling in Wilson. People see WILSON ENERGY utility rates and RUN!! All we get are excuses.

Friday, January 21, 2011 at 7:27 AM ms said...

I was out of town the whole month of December arriving home January 3.I received my utility bill soon after I got home.The bill was for $353.20. I have lived here for 15YEARS. I have never had a bill this large. I called the utility office and she immediately said the bill was this high due to colder weather and it had snowed two times.The thermostat was set on 68degrees like it always is in this time of year.I am disabled and my income is the same each month.I don't know how I can pay this amount.It just doesn't seem right to me.

Thursday, January 20, 2011 at 8:37 PM Explain THIS>>> said...

I have one house in Wilson City limits where I currently live. I keep the heat on 62 degrees, no Christmas decorations, bill jumps $100.00. I have another home in the country that I am renovating and it's almost ready to move in...I DO NOT LIVE THERE, last months bill for just electric was $70, this month it's $400??? The KWH rate is more in the country than in the city, is that to make up for the water you can't charge me for??? This is a prime example of how the rates are different for different areas of the county...and how a bill goes up $330 when there is NOTHING ON except heat on the weekend (55 degrees) while renovating. New insulation, new heat and air unit, new EVERYTHING..house was gutted....City of Wilson will definitely need to have some answers tomorrow morning!!

Thursday, January 20, 2011 at 9:08 PM we need help said...

when is someone going to step up and help us out. This is crazy. The city offers no type of assistance. I would love to see the mayor's light bill! I'm sick of hearing all the excuses. We are being ripped off, period. Packing up and moving ASAP!

Wednesday, January 19, 2011 at 12:21 PM FREEZING.... said...

Thermostat stays on 62, every month...it inches up November...then Dec...from $250 to $400, and one person had moved out. We have to pay, they know it...Nothing wrong with system, we unplug everything not in use, sit in the dark...it makes no difference...we do all this and still pay $400 to be miserable.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 8:55 PM BULLOCK said...

yes as a senior citizen my utility bill i very very high, what is it for seniors and others to do. we can not afford these high bills.you want comments ,comments not helping with the bill

Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 7:18 PM Just a thought said...

Could it be that the crooks (COW) are charging excessively because they know people are getting tax refunds? These crooks know that people are going to take their tax money and pay these high bills. Just sayin.....

Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 12:04 PM Ridiculous said...

Can some one explain to me how my bill jumps up $250.00 in just one month with no change in the thermostat settings. We keep it on 70 even with the snow on the ground! We've had our heating system checked and nothing is wrong with it. I keep a blanket on at night because I'm still cold!

Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 8:59 AM Michael said...

My bill was $571. As usual my family's lifestyle was no different than the previous month. It's just another year that those crooks in Wilson rob us blind.

Monday, January 17, 2011 at 8:19 PM Red( as in) said...

Way to high!!! $429.00! Still cold in house, and can't see to go from room to room with no lights on.

Monday, January 17, 2011 at 12:23 PM ken said...

i have a sister that lives in richmond, va and one in new york. there bill is lower then mine.

Sunday, January 16, 2011 at 11:18 AM charles said...

My duke power bill was 213.00 for Nov. Its 5 hundred and some for Dec. Can someone tell me how it jumped 300 dollars. I havnt done nothin different. And they can't tell me the cold weather made it jump that much. This isn't including Jan.

Sunday, January 16, 2011 at 1:06 AM said...

we all know that the city of wilson is robbing us.

Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 8:43 PM Victor said...

My utility bill was way too high. Pretty soon I won't be able to live at all.

Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 1:00 PM As of January 2011 said...

January 2011 Bill is TOO HIGH! These HIGH RATES in Wilson are causing foreclosures, people aren't buying homes. Businesses downtown are FAILING. That new Olive Garden? Give it a year. It will be gone too. The Middle-class in Wilson are being forced to subsidize a consortium of investors and realtors at Heritage Crossing via tax and other incentives, while the rest go broke!
New city moto: Wilson a Wonderful City of Rich and Poor.

Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 7:18 AM you guess said...

I do not live in the home with a utility bill of 303.00+ Thermostat is kept on 58. Did not stay i the home but one day during the billing period.Yet the charge is outrageous. Yes, the house is one story, small. Meter is not being
read -only using last years figures to guestimate. It is past time to protest again. We certainly do need a new mayor. It is past time for him to retire. Stop welcoming him to you know where because that is his way of fooling the people and many are falling for the insincerity.

Friday, January 14, 2011 at 9:27 PM Former Wilson Resident said...

Now that Progress and Duke Energy are merging, there is no reason why the money Wilson owes for power can't be renegotiated. Even without a merger it can still be done. Problem is somebody won't be getting their pockets lined.

Wednesday, January 12, 2011 at 4:16 PM GOOD TIMES said...

THEY WILL NEVER ADMIT IT, BUT I GUARANTEE YOU ONE OF THE MAIN REASONS THE OWNERS OF AGAVE RESTAURANT CLOSED WAS THE UNCONTROLLABLE UTILITY RATES. THAT STATEMENT IN TODAY'S PAPER WAS A JOKE. IF IT WAS SUCH A GREAT LOCATION WHY CLOSE? DOES ANYONE REMEMBER WHAT THE OWNER OF THE FRENCH CAFE AROUND THE CORNER SAID AFTER SHE CLOSED?

Wednesday, January 12, 2011 at 9:25 AM TOO HIGH said...

Wilson Energy is robbing us all blind. It's ridiculous. 3 bedroom, 1 bath, single story home. Bill usually no more than $250. December's bill over $600. We DID NOT put any lights, not one, for Christmas this year and the thermastat was NEVER over 68. Wilson Energy is just making up rates and charges. They have to be. Everyone's bills MAKE NO SENSE. When is someone going to come to town and help us out with this mess?

Wednesday, January 12, 2011 at 11:37 PM JR said...

Just got our bill today $313 it is just two of us living here and we keep the heat on 63, you tell me how my bill is 313 and my heat stays on 63. we both where sick the other week and you know its sad when you come home feeling a little bit better and your house is cold and you get worse. The city of wilson has to go. Why do you think building has stopped, poeple don't want to move here because of the bills!!! We NEED Progress engery to come in and offer services to us.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011 at 4:31 PM Lucama Resident said...

I know that complaining is not going to lower my bill, but come on folks, again? I have had all new duct work put up under my house and my summer bills dropped $200. Now that winter is here my bill has increased $200. I never changed the degree on my thermostat. I believe it was just as hot as it is cold. This just doesn't make any sense at all. I'm beginning to think that they charge whatever they feel like charging. When can we boot out the Mayor because I believe it is time for him to go.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011 at 2:16 PM tmunzs said...

WOW, just got my energy bill from the city of wilson 606.46, here's the breakdown, 286.00 for gas, 226.76 for electric. Now I know this has been a cold winter, we still have Jan's bill to cycle in! I'm keeping my programnable thermostat at 68, I have a 2 story home which I have gas heat down stairs and electric heat upstairs. The kicker is that I don't run my heat upstairs, and my bill is still high!The city of wilson is facing a big problem when they are trying to lure business people to this city, when their utility program is so expensive! same goes for people wanting to relocate her, most people look at the electric bills on the home they would like to buy in Wilson!
Another question, is why don't the city of wilson offer a off peak time to run our things like our washers and dryers, so we can get a break on our energy bill and maybe give an off peak time on the weekend also! I;m a little curious why they offer to give us those so called peak boxs that tell you that your water heater or furance is on during when everyone else is on also! there is not much of a break on your bill to have those boxes on your heaters/waterheaters. someone or something needs to change, we as a community must see something different or this Town will start loosing people and it is the people of wilson ,who keep this town alive!!!!!!!!!!!

Tuesday, January 11, 2011 at 11:57 AM way to high said...

My bill for December was 668 this is way to high for someone who lives on a limited income, something needs to be done....

Tuesday, January 11, 2011 at 8:07 AM Tom Loftis said...

We just moved here from Texas. NEVER have we seen such expensive electricity! Our largest electric bill there was $265. This was in Aug 09', when we had 45 consecutive days of 100 plus degrees! This past November (our first Wilson bill) was over $350. December's bill was almost $600. We can hardly wait to see the bill for January.

Monday, January 10, 2011 at 7:23 PM WOW said...

Are u kidding me $1072 for an electric bill? Makes me scared to get my bill...

Monday, January 10, 2011 at 3:50 PM Charlene said...

TOO high!!! 1,072.00 1 month... you tell me! and it never ends.. been through this a thousand times..

Monday, January 10, 2011 at 1:29 PM gregrick whitaker said...

Yes i think the rates are too high exspecially for the month of dec i mean im barely making it out here and the last thing I need is a high light bill....

Friday, January 07, 2011 at 9:11 PM Debbie said...

Too high 370.50

Thursday, January 06, 2011 at 7:12 PM here we go again said...

Ok folks here we go again being robbed and screwed out of our hard earned money!!!! I can't wait to hear the same ol' explanation as years past. Colder than usual month, long cycle and Holiday lights being used, ETC. ETC....BULL..GIVE ME A BREAK...We turned off our electric heat, using propane gas instead. We only burned our christmas light a few times and wrapped up more than ever and our light bill doubled. It seems to me the city can take it upon themselves to use a $1,000,000 dollars of OUR money for a stupid lawsuit to fight a chicken plant in another county & can take thousands of dollars of OUR money to build a senseless Whirlygig park while their citizens are struggling. Where's the justice????

Thursday, January 06, 2011 at 12:31 PM Heat is a luxury I guess said...

I guess I am paying for that "luxury" heat that Wilson must have with the rates they charge. Have to get frost bite to afford to live here.

Thursday, January 06, 2011 at 8:01 AM CB said...

Here we go again... a $400 light bill! I only ran my Christmas Tree for the week of Christmas for a couple hours in the evening and my thermostat never went above 63.. So can someone please explain to me why my bill went up $200? Ugh I thought I would make Wilson my permanent home but I am for sure moving out... that is no way to live. I refuse to work my butt off to give them almost everything I make.

Thursday, January 06, 2011 at 7:58 AM Jill Conkwright said...

TOO, TOO, TOO HIGH.....COMPARED TO OTHER COMMUNITIES, WAAAAAAAAAY TOO HIGH....

Wednesday, January 05, 2011 at 6:31 PM Lamm said...

The utility bill has been to high every since thy put the cable system in wilson and went up 18% on them.

Tuesday, January 04, 2011 at 12:47 PM monica briggs said...

I think that the way the light bill doubles from one month to the next is too much. Its bad to think that when you get paid you cant afford to do nothing else but pay your light bill. Its not right.

Tuesday, January 04, 2011 at 3:31 AM John said...

I moved from Wilson to Nashville last year.My light bills in Wilson was high.My November,December,January & Febuary bills were over 550 a piece.In 4 months my light bills was 2,200 plus.Since March last year I have been here,I have spent
NOTE: Up to two years' payment history is provided. An entire year spans from January through December. Therefore, the earliest and latest "Annual Totals" may not represent an entire 12 month period.
NOTE: Payments submitted at Progress Energy Carolinas authorized paystations or EasyPay on a Progress Energy Carolinas business day are posted to your account by the following business day that you made the payment. Payments submitted on non-Progress Energy Carolinas business days are normally posted to your account on the following business day but no later than the second business day.
Pending Payments
There are no pending payments to display
Payment History
Payment Date Payment Amount

12/08/2010 $105.00
11/29/2010 $235.00
10/18/2010 $180.00
09/03/2010 $200.00
08/03/2010 $209.65
06/14/2010 $112.00
06/02/2010 $82.00
05/03/2010 $97.57
03/10/2010 $490.00
Total for '10 $1,711.22

Something is wrong at Wilson enegry.I have 3 kids and I use more energy now then I did in Wilson

Monday, January 03, 2011 at 4:23 PM Renee said...

Our bill for December was over $700.00 and they say it is because it has been cold. I am from Colorado where it gets below zero and never had a bill over $200! They are crooks, and getting away with it! I am looking foward to moving away from here.

Monday, January 03, 2011 at 3:33 PM cjw said...

To high for a fixed income..

Monday, January 03, 2011 at 12:36 AM Here we go again said...

Last months bill was 185. This month was 400 and this was before the snow!We keep thermostat on 64 during the day and 60 at night. This is a bunch of bull...Between this and the cost of gas the average man doesn't stand a chance!I think the utility country follows the same practice as the oil companies. They jack up the prices when the weather starts to turn cooler and use that as an excuse just like gas goes up when a holiday when people usually travel comes around.

Saturday, January 01, 2011 at 6:32 PM ryan said...

The utilities are way too high!! Unfortunately, I don't think anyone in Wilson that can do anything about it listen to the people (or probably care for that matter). It's terrible. I have a friend in Pennsylvania who pays $50-75 a month for utilities of a 1000 sq.ft. house. my house is a little bigger and last month my utilities were $275. And we froze! We are getting robbed!

Friday, December 31, 2010 at 8:14 AM nashcoresident said...

My utility bill is always economically fair. I receive my electricity through Progress Energy. I would love to move inside Wilson City Limits but can not afford the outrageously high light bills. We have been looking to purchase a home but the most important factor is who provides the electricity. Since Wilson has entered into a contract for so many years in the future I guess we won't be making Wilson our home.

Thursday, December 30, 2010 at 4:50 PM Had enough said...

Taxes and utilities in Wilson are one of the highest in the state of NC. Something has to be done. There are residents paying more for utilities than mortgage or rent. Enough already!

Thursday, December 30, 2010 at 9:10 AM said...

We just moved to the area because my husband was transfered to Wilson. It seems everywhere I turn the rates are high, from the utility bills to county vehicle taxes. I honestly think that we will be moving with in the year because of all the high rates.

Monday, December 27, 2010 at 12:19 PM Sammy B said...

TRUTH = Get Involved said...
***Please click the "ADD A NOTE" button to add your name/address/phone to sign this petition***
Here is a small list that I have prepared to explain why our utility bills are so expensive. I encourage you to do your own research using the links I provided or others you may have found on your own. Please add to this list any relevant information as you find it. I am in the process of discussing what can be done about this with the Federal Utilities Commision Oversight department. Something has to be done about this! Please sign your name below if you agree that our utility bills are too expensive.
I have contacted the NC Utilities commision and they have no jurisdiction over ElectriCities and Wilson Energy in Wilson, therefore whatever is done must be done on a federal level or ALL OF US MUST GET INVOLVED!
I found out that they are charging Wilson residents almost double what people in other towns, who get their power from Duke Power or Progressive Energy pay. Per kilowatt hour, we pay literally almost twice as much (see below). I also found out that the Wilson Mayor, Bruce Rose, is on the Board and is the CHAIRMAN of this ElectriCities company (IMO, this seems like a serious conflict of interest. Is he receiving monetary kickbacks from ElectriCities?). I found out there is literally no oversight whatsoever. The board makes all the decisions, sets the utility rates, etc and b/c of NC House Bill 556 that was passed in 1995, they are pretty much legally able to charge whatever they want w/ no oversight or accountability.
Here is a link to the House Bill 556 that passed in 1995 that made this mess possible:
http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/Sessions/1995/Bills/House/PDF/H556v3.pdf
Please read it as best as you can, but page 5 has an intersting statement. Basically, it says that the governing bodies should make sure that the ventureinto an agreement with a company like ElectriCities is as cost efficient as possible compared to other business entities:
" the governing boards shall take into consideration,
but shall not be limited to, the following:
(1) Whether or not a separate entity may be able to finance the cost of
projects in a more efficient and economical manner"
I wonder if they ever considered this?
Ever since Wilson joined with ElectriCities our rates have been SKY HIGH. I am posting some links below to ElectriCities and the City of Wilson's breakdown of our utility bill (btw, almost 40% of our bill goes to repaying Wilson Energy's debt).
Basically, we will continue to have these outrageous utility bills untill the city's debt is paid.
The state of NC isn't doing anything to help us out, and they keep refering me to ElectriCities( like that's REALLY gonna help). I need federal intervention, and somehow, someway, I'll get it. But, I need your help. There is power in numbers and if we all work together we can do something about this.
Here are a few links
http://www.wilsonnc.org/departments/...electricrates/
It says we pay 13.50 cents per kilowatt hour, but Duke Energy in Greensboro charges 8-8.5 cents per kilowatt hour
http://www.wilsonnc.org/departments/...tricitiesfaqs/ElectriCities FAQ's and the breakdown of our utility bills
The above link also quotes this:
Does ElectriCities provide power to its members?
ElectriCities is a service organization, not a power supplier. Its members receive their electricity from their participation in power agencies or by purchasing it from investor-owned utilities such as Duke Power and Progress Energy or electric cooperatives.
So, if the City is getting electricity for us from places like Duke Power, why aren't we being charged what Duke Power charges their customers?????
Also from link above:
If the agencies own the plants, why is the cost of electricity so high?
After the NCEMPA cities and Carolina Power & Light (now Progress Energy) began construction of Shearon Harris, a nuclear power plant at Three Mile Island, Penn., suffered a severe core meltdown. In response, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission greatly tightened the rules and regulations covering these plants, enhancing safety but making construction much more expensive than planned.
The NCEMPA cities are not scheduled to retire the debt until 2025. As of January 2010, Wilson's share equaled almost $379 million.
Why is this debt OUR responsibility? Did we vote on this? As someone mentioned to me, this is like taking out a loan in someone else's name and expecting THEM to pay it back!!!
For every dollar on a Wilson Energy customer's bill:
39 cents goes to retire the debt on the power plants
43 cents pays for fuel costs and operating expense of those plants
18 cents pays for the operating costs of Wilson Energy's employees, all the people who work on the local power grid and respond in both clear weather and storms to your assistance
City Mayor: Bruce Rose
http://www.wilsonnc.org/government/mayorsgreeting/
ElectriCities website
:http://www.electricities.com/
ElectriCities Board of Dirctors: (our Mayor, Bruce Rose- Chairman of the Board)http://www.electricities.com/Default...e/ecboard.aspx
Electricities Financials:
http://www.electricities.com/Default...sOverview.aspx
The Finance Division, directed by Chief Financial Officer Tim Tunis, manages, controls and reports all of the financial activities of NCEMPA, NCMPA1 and ElectriCities. The Treasury section of Finance is responsible for investment transactions, bond refinancings, new money bond issues, trustee and banking contacts, investor relations, and financial community relationships for the power agencies. The Accounting section reviews, records and reports all financial transactions and activities for the power agencies and ElectriCities.
http://www.electricities.com/Default/AboutUs/financials/2009_CAFR.aspx
This is a link to ElectriCities 2009 audit performed by an independent company.
http://www.wilsonnc.org/departments/...oesitcomefrom/
Wilson Energy buys its electricity through the North Carolina Eastern Municipal Power Agency (NCEMPA), a non-profit group made up of 32 eastern N.C. cities, including Wilson, Rocky Mount, Greenville and Clayton.NCEMPA gets its energy from several power generation plants in which it has partial ownership, including the Shearon Harris nuclear power plant near Raleigh and the Brunswick nuclear power plant near Wilmington. (How nuclear power works) Wilson Energy also buys supplemental energy from Progress Energy, an investor-owned utility with facilities in North Carolina and Florida.
Here is a VERY interesting link from ElectriCities website that breaks down the debt owed to them by City:
http://www.electricities.com/Default/AboutUs/financials/NCEMPADebtResponsibility.aspx
YES! That number you read: $371,718,709.60 is correct. That's almost $400 MILLION dollars Wilson is in debt and the MAIN REASON our utility bills are so expensive.
Link to the Wilson Daily Times Utility Complaint Section:
http://www.wilsontimes.com/News/Feature/Story/What-was-your-utility-bill--Are-rates-too-high-or-fair--Click-here-to-comment-an
Petition To Dissolve the Arrangement Between ElectriCities and Wilson Energy/City of Wilson Utility Services And to repeal House Bill 556 of year 1995:
Please go here:
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150094775967577&id=1207549974
to add your info to the petition
Name/Address/ Phone#
***Please click the "ADD A NOTE" button to add your name/address/phone to sign this petition***
Thanks for your time and help!

Sunday, December 26, 2010 at 3:04 PM paul h. said...

well, the city of wilson started again. have a new heating and cooling unit installed a couple of months back, bill for last month was $477.00, this month it's 742.00. going to move from wilson. now I know why people are homeless, city of wilson steals all they can from them.

Friday, December 24, 2010 at 12:24 PM Jonathan said...

I think the rates are way too high! In other smaller cities where there is maybe 1/4 of Wilson's population, the rates are way lower. I think that if their was a second electric company in town, then the City of Wilson would have to go back and take a second look at what they charge folks. When people who make minimum wage have to give away a complete check, give or take, to pay a light bill, something is not right.

Monday, December 20, 2010 at 3:19 PM rise in bill said...

I know with the cold weather, Wilson Utility is ready to sock us with a high utility bill. They always use the excuse that the weather is cold. People are cutting back their thermostats and the bills are still high.

Sunday, December 19, 2010 at 2:40 PM Chris Smith said...

Wilson need to fire some people I am glad I am not liveing there any more I move out 2000 My utility bill got cut in half at that time. I am with CPL I going to a place of business yesterday to get some work done what I found out was he was moving out of town because of the high utility bills in Wilson NC I heard That CPL wanted handly or buy Wilson Utility That way you bill would go down it would help the grow of Wilson Will they do that probly not. Need to chang name from Wilson NC to Willnot NC

Saturday, December 18, 2010 at 2:28 PM Scrooge said...

Just look at the limited number of Christmas lights. That explains it.

Friday, December 10, 2010 at 11:49 PM Horrified said...

The utility bills in Wilson are outrageous. My bill typically runs between $400 to $500 per month. People who come to our house ask if our unit is broken being it is freezing in the winter and hot in the summer. I tell them no it is working but we keep it set on 67 in the winter and 79 in the summer just to try and keep the bills down. We are extremely conservative and keep part of our house closed off so as to only hear and cool a few rooms. It seems that no matter what we do it is always an outrageous bill that arrives monthly.

Thursday, December 09, 2010 at 7:58 AM kay said...

When your utilities are more than your rent... and you either sit in temputures of 85 or more in the summer or in the 50's in the winter, just to afford to pay the bill. yes, the rates are too high, the highest i have ever paid and i have been all over the country.

Wednesday, December 08, 2010 at 1:20 AM Chrissy said...

Bill is high compared to other utility company's.
Octobers bill was a little better. I have a 2 story modular home the 2 floor is unfinished and closed off by an insulated door so only the bottom is heated and cooled we have 4 people me my husband and 2 small kids. Our bill averages 220.00 or so but I know another family on another utility service with 5 people in a 2 story home both floors heated and cooled and both floors in use and there electric bill runs 150.00 or so a month. So compared to other utility companys I would say Wilson is high very high for some. We use to have a small mobile home and our electric bill ran around 450.00 a month and one month it was over 900.00 on the settle up month and that was paying an average 300.00 every month. Now that is an out right rip off if you ask me!

Tuesday, December 07, 2010 at 1:33 AM Michael said...

Of course they are too high. It just goes along with living in Wilson. Everything from gas to taxes are too high in "Something Wonderful" Wilson. Give me a break..

Tuesday, December 07, 2010 at 9:12 PM tony zayyad said...

In the month of november we might have reduce bill not because change of season betweetn hot and cold hardly use any heater or air condition...
but if I have use my unit the right way I will be baying at least 200-300 hunderd more than what I'm baying now average 350 that mean Iwill bay around 600 at least but alot thing I don't use.. but that mean the low makers they will citizens out of wilson county but why becuse have nothing to do??????

Monday, December 06, 2010 at 10:16 PM dorothy said...

last moth electrical bill over $400 and the next bill only $148 I have not done nothing different just go to work all day and home at nite I want to know whats going on with the bill

Sunday, December 05, 2010 at 6:46 PM GUS said...

I WONDER IF SANDERSON POULTRY CHECKED WILSON'S RATES BEFORE NASH COUNTY'S?

Friday, December 03, 2010 at 11:05 AM said...

rates are way too high.

Friday, December 03, 2010 at 10:21 PM Robert said...

Too High !

Wednesday, December 01, 2010 at 8:27 AM Be civil but said...

Quietly protest... just think: if even HALF of all customers refused to pay the bill - attention would be given. They are holding customers hostage - it is time to turn the tables. They can not turn off the power to all of Wilson - in many cities/states it is ILLEGAL to turn off the power during winter months. Give it a try....

Sunday, November 28, 2010 at 4:18 AM Afraid said...

With colder weather setting in we are almost terrified to turn on our heat so we haven't in fear of what our bill may be. How sad we live month to month in fear from the mess our city has gotten us into. A few nights already I've woken up shaken from the coldness in the house, but I'm able to get meds and food so it will have to do for now until we can find other means of heating or move from Wilson.

Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 12:36 PM Citizen Kane said...

Progress Energy customers in North Carolina will see a rate discount of about 4 percent starting in December, thanks in large part to the falling price of coal and other energy sources.
Read more: http://www.newsobserver.com/2010/11/20/813964/progress-energy-bills-will-dip.html#ixzz15vZ5ss1b

Sunday, November 21, 2010 at 9:37 AM Winter is coming said...

My bill has been less than a $100 for the past couple of months. I just shudder to think what the winter months bills are going to be. They say we aren't going to have any increases our electric bill, but we will see.

Friday, November 19, 2010 at 11:58 AM workingforthelights said...

Our average utility bill is about $500 a month. We have had a $650 bill before and after Christmas and during the summer. We never have gone below $280 though. It's nothing new. It's always been that way. The City of Wilson is GREEDY!! My husband and I tell people that we can't afford to turn on our Christmas tree because we have to pay so much for the lights downtown. We don't have a large extravagant house and we've been replacing our appliances with energy saving ones. This spring we did more to "save" on our utility bills only to get a $600 utility bill. Yes, we purchased the thermal curtans which block sunlight into the house. It dropped the temp in our dining room by more than 10 degrees but the utility bill didn't reflect our efforts at all. By the way, our thermostat stays at a constant. It's parked at 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter. We dress appropriately for the seasons. Doesn't matter! Our bills is about the same $500-$600. So we've concluded....City of Wilson is just a bunch of greedy people and they don't care who they have to step on or crush to keep themselves rolling in the dough.

Friday, November 19, 2010 at 9:23 AM Candace said...

The bill is ok now, but come January-March of next year I am not certain what to expect. It makes little sense that the bill is more than my job's income during these months.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010 at 9:03 AM anonymous said...

I don't understand why when I use less utilites that my bill is more than usual .. I am very conservative on utilites and when the weather started getting cooler I immediately turned off the a/c unit and opened windows. I also have been conservative about not using the heat unless I absolutely have too .. bills are still outrageous!!

Monday, November 15, 2010 at 12:29 PM Brenda Battle said...

The utility here are outrageous. I live on a fitted income,and can hardly make it with the utility bill. I wish something can be done about it not only for me but for the other people that are on a fitted income like myself.

Monday, November 15, 2010 at 10:20 PM I CARE !!!!!! said...

the light bill is very high i feel so sorry for peoples its very sad no one deserve to have there lights out its cold they can at least let u make payments toward the bill and work with folks as long as they r paying something u just don't know when its u in that shape.if i could i would pay everyone bill i know thats not the case but please someone fix it so people can have lights and heat especialy if they r trying to pay toward their bills u know they r high if not y would u even ask that question.may GOD lay on somebody heart and fix this thing.in the name of JESUS!!!

Friday, November 12, 2010 at 8:38 PM Anon said...

Wilson's utility rates are higher than most counties in the state. Why? One would assume that the city/county managing the utilities in house would reduce the overhead to manage, no?

Thursday, November 11, 2010 at 2:59 PM Get Involved said...

Here is a small list that I have prepared to explain why our utility bills are so expensive. I encourage you to do your own research using the links I provided or others you may have found on your own. Please add to this list any relevant information as you find it. I am in the process of discussing what can be done about this with the Federal Utilities Commision Oversight department. Something has to be done about this! Please sign your name below if you agree that our utility bills are too expensive.

I have contacted the NC Utilities commision and they have no jurisdiction over ElectriCities and Wilson Energy in Wilson, therefore whatever is done must be done on a federal level or ALL OF US MUST GET INVOLVED!

I found out that they are charging Wilson residents almost double what people in other towns, who get their power from Duke Power or Progressive Energy pay. Per kilowatt hour, we pay literally almost twice as much (see below). I also found out that the Wilson Mayor, Bruce Rose, is on the Board and is the CHAIRMAN of this ElectriCities company (IMO, this seems like a serious conflict of interest. Is he receiving monetary kickbacks from ElectriCities?). I found out there is literally no oversight whatsoever. The board makes all the decisions, sets the utility rates, etc and b/c of NC House Bill 556 that was passed in 1995, they are pretty much legally able to charge whatever they want w/ no oversight or accountability.

Here is a link to the House Bill 556 that passed in 1995 that made this mess possible:
http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/Sessions/1995/Bills/House/PDF/H556v3.pdf
Please read it as best as you can, but page 5 has an intersting statement. Basically, it says that the governing bodies should make sure that the ventureinto an agreement with a company like ElectriCities is as cost efficient as possible compared to other business entities:

" the governing boards shall take into consideration,
but shall not be limited to, the following:
(1) Whether or not a separate entity may be able to finance the cost of
projects in a more efficient and economical manner"

I wonder if they ever considered this?

Ever since Wilson joined with ElectriCities our rates have been SKY HIGH. I am posting some links below to ElectriCities and the City of Wilson's breakdown of our utility bill (btw, almost 40% of our bill goes to repaying Wilson Energy's debt).

Basically, we will continue to have these outrageous utility bills untill the city's debt is paid.
The state of NC isn't doing anything to help us out, and they keep refering me to ElectriCities( like that's REALLY gonna help). I need federal intervention, and somehow, someway, I'll get it. But, I need your help. There is power in numbers and if we all work together we can do something about this.

Here are a few links
http://www.wilsonnc.org/departments/...electricrates/
It says we pay 13.50 cents per kilowatt hour, but Duke Energy in Greensboro charges 8-8.5 cents per kilowatt hour

http://www.wilsonnc.org/departments/...tricitiesfaqs/ElectriCities FAQ's and the breakdown of our utility bills
The above link also quotes this:
Does ElectriCities provide power to its members?
ElectriCities is a service organization, not a power supplier. Its members receive their electricity from their participation in power agencies or by purchasing it from investor-owned utilities such as Duke Power and Progress Energy or electric cooperatives.

So, if the City is getting electricity for us from places like Duke Power, why aren't we being charged what Duke Power charges their customers?????

Also from link above:
If the agencies own the plants, why is the cost of electricity so high?
After the NCEMPA cities and Carolina Power & Light (now Progress Energy) began construction of Shearon Harris, a nuclear power plant at Three Mile Island, Penn., suffered a severe core meltdown. In response, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission greatly tightened the rules and regulations covering these plants, enhancing safety but making construction much more expensive than planned.

The NCEMPA cities are not scheduled to retire the debt until 2025. As of January 2010, Wilson's share equaled almost $379 million.

Why is this debt OUR responsibility? Did we vote on this? As someone mentioned to me, this is like taking out a loan in someone else's name and expecting THEM to pay it back!!!

For every dollar on a Wilson Energy customer's bill:
39 cents goes to retire the debt on the power plants
43 cents pays for fuel costs and operating expense of those plants
18 cents pays for the operating costs of Wilson Energy's employees, all the people who work on the local power grid and respond in both clear weather and storms to your assistance

City Mayor: Bruce Rose
http://www.wilsonnc.org/government/mayorsgreeting/

ElectriCities website
:http://www.electricities.com/

ElectriCities Board of Dirctors: (our Mayor, Bruce Rose- Chairman of the Board)http://www.electricities.com/Default...e/ecboard.aspx

Electricities Financials:
http://www.electricities.com/Default...sOverview.aspx
The Finance Division, directed by Chief Financial Officer Tim Tunis, manages, controls and reports all of the financial activities of NCEMPA, NCMPA1 and ElectriCities. The Treasury section of Finance is responsible for investment transactions, bond refinancings, new money bond issues, trustee and banking contacts, investor relations, and financial community relationships for the power agencies. The Accounting section reviews, records and reports all financial transactions and activities for the power agencies and ElectriCities.

http://www.electricities.com/Default/AboutUs/financials/2009_CAFR.aspx
This is a link to ElectriCities 2009 audit performed by an independent company.

http://www.wilsonnc.org/departments/...oesitcomefrom/
Wilson Energy buys its electricity through the North Carolina Eastern Municipal Power Agency (NCEMPA), a non-profit group made up of 32 eastern N.C. cities, including Wilson, Rocky Mount, Greenville and Clayton.NCEMPA gets its energy from several power generation plants in which it has partial ownership, including the Shearon Harris nuclear power plant near Raleigh and the Brunswick nuclear power plant near Wilmington. (How nuclear power works) Wilson Energy also buys supplemental energy from Progress Energy, an investor-owned utility with facilities in North Carolina and Florida.

Here is a VERY interesting link from ElectriCities website that breaks down the debt owed to them by City:
http://www.electricities.com/Default/AboutUs/financials/NCEMPADebtResponsibility.aspx
YES! That number you read: $371,718,709.60 is correct. That's almost $400 MILLION dollars Wilson is in debt and the MAIN REASON our utility bills are so expensive.
WE MUST VOTE THESE PEOPLE OUT OF OFFICE IN 2011!!!! Get Involved!!!!

Tuesday, November 09, 2010 at 11:09 AM Obnoxiousness said...

I no longer live in Wilson County, and frankly, I couldn't afford to. I have family members that still live in Wilson, and their utility bill is TWICE what mine is, for less than 1/2 of the square footage. It all comes down to an irresponsible debt agreement, that will not be extinguished until 2025. People are having to choose between heat and food, and that is absurd. My suggestion is - MOVE!!!
http://www.electricities.com/Default/AboutUs/financials/2009_Annual_Report.aspx
By the way, the employees in this ElectriCities Annual Report, don't appear to be struggling to pay their utility bill.....

Tuesday, November 09, 2010 at 9:03 AM Get Involved said...

***Please click the "ADD A NOTE" button to add your name/address/phone to sign this petition***

Here is a small list that I have prepared to explain why our utility bills are so expensive. I encourage you to do your own research using the links I provided or others you may have found on your own. Please add to this list any relevant information as you find it. I am in the process of discussing what can be done about this with the Federal Utilities Commision Oversight department. Something has to be done about this! Please sign your name below if you agree that our utility bills are too expensive.

I have contacted the NC Utilities commision and they have no jurisdiction over ElectriCities and Wilson Energy in Wilson, therefore whatever is done must be done on a federal level or ALL OF US MUST GET INVOLVED!

I found out that they are charging Wilson residents almost double what people in other towns, who get their power from Duke Power or Progressive Energy pay. Per kilowatt hour, we pay literally almost twice as much (see below). I also found out that the Wilson Mayor, Bruce Rose, is on the Board and is the CHAIRMAN of this ElectriCities company (IMO, this seems like a serious conflict of interest. Is he receiving monetary kickbacks from ElectriCities?). I found out there is literally no oversight whatsoever. The board makes all the decisions, sets the utility rates, etc and b/c of NC House Bill 556 that was passed in 1995, they are pretty much legally able to charge whatever they want w/ no oversight or accountability.

Here is a link to the House Bill 556 that passed in 1995 that made this mess possible:
http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/Sessions/1995/Bills/House/PDF/H556v3.pdf
Please read it as best as you can, but page 5 has an intersting statement. Basically, it says that the governing bodies should make sure that the ventureinto an agreement with a company like ElectriCities is as cost efficient as possible compared to other business entities:

" the governing boards shall take into consideration,
but shall not be limited to, the following:
(1) Whether or not a separate entity may be able to finance the cost of
projects in a more efficient and economical manner"

I wonder if they ever considered this?

Ever since Wilson joined with ElectriCities our rates have been SKY HIGH. I am posting some links below to ElectriCities and the City of Wilson's breakdown of our utility bill (btw, almost 40% of our bill goes to repaying Wilson Energy's debt).

Basically, we will continue to have these outrageous utility bills untill the city's debt is paid.
The state of NC isn't doing anything to help us out, and they keep refering me to ElectriCities( like that's REALLY gonna help). I need federal intervention, and somehow, someway, I'll get it. But, I need your help. There is power in numbers and if we all work together we can do something about this.

Here are a few links
http://www.wilsonnc.org/departments/...electricrates/
It says we pay 13.50 cents per kilowatt hour, but Duke Energy in Greensboro charges 8-8.5 cents per kilowatt hour

http://www.wilsonnc.org/departments/...tricitiesfaqs/ElectriCities FAQ's and the breakdown of our utility bills
The above link also quotes this:
Does ElectriCities provide power to its members?
ElectriCities is a service organization, not a power supplier. Its members receive their electricity from their participation in power agencies or by purchasing it from investor-owned utilities such as Duke Power and Progress Energy or electric cooperatives.

So, if the City is getting electricity for us from places like Duke Power, why aren't we being charged what Duke Power charges their customers?????

Also from link above:
If the agencies own the plants, why is the cost of electricity so high?
After the NCEMPA cities and Carolina Power & Light (now Progress Energy) began construction of Shearon Harris, a nuclear power plant at Three Mile Island, Penn., suffered a severe core meltdown. In response, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission greatly tightened the rules and regulations covering these plants, enhancing safety but making construction much more expensive than planned.

The NCEMPA cities are not scheduled to retire the debt until 2025. As of January 2010, Wilson's share equaled almost $379 million.

Why is this debt OUR responsibility? Did we vote on this? As someone mentioned to me, this is like taking out a loan in someone else's name and expecting THEM to pay it back!!!

For every dollar on a Wilson Energy customer's bill:
39 cents goes to retire the debt on the power plants
43 cents pays for fuel costs and operating expense of those plants
18 cents pays for the operating costs of Wilson Energy's employees, all the people who work on the local power grid and respond in both clear weather and storms to your assistance

City Mayor: Bruce Rose
http://www.wilsonnc.org/government/mayorsgreeting/

ElectriCities website
:http://www.electricities.com/

ElectriCities Board of Dirctors: (our Mayor, Bruce Rose- Chairman of the Board)http://www.electricities.com/Default...e/ecboard.aspx

Electricities Financials:
http://www.electricities.com/Default...sOverview.aspx
The Finance Division, directed by Chief Financial Officer Tim Tunis, manages, controls and reports all of the financial activities of NCEMPA, NCMPA1 and ElectriCities. The Treasury section of Finance is responsible for investment transactions, bond refinancings, new money bond issues, trustee and banking contacts, investor relations, and financial community relationships for the power agencies. The Accounting section reviews, records and reports all financial transactions and activities for the power agencies and ElectriCities.

http://www.electricities.com/Default/AboutUs/financials/2009_CAFR.aspx
This is a link to ElectriCities 2009 audit performed by an independent company.

http://www.wilsonnc.org/departments/...oesitcomefrom/
Wilson Energy buys its electricity through the North Carolina Eastern Municipal Power Agency (NCEMPA), a non-profit group made up of 32 eastern N.C. cities, including Wilson, Rocky Mount, Greenville and Clayton.NCEMPA gets its energy from several power generation plants in which it has partial ownership, including the Shearon Harris nuclear power plant near Raleigh and the Brunswick nuclear power plant near Wilmington. (How nuclear power works) Wilson Energy also buys supplemental energy from Progress Energy, an investor-owned utility with facilities in North Carolina and Florida.

Here is a VERY interesting link from ElectriCities website that breaks down the debt owed to them by City:
http://www.electricities.com/Default/AboutUs/financials/NCEMPADebtResponsibility.aspx
YES! That number you read: $371,718,709.60 is correct. That's almost $400 MILLION dollars Wilson is in debt and the MAIN REASON our utility bills are so expensive.

Link to the Wilson Daily Times Utility Complaint Section:
http://www.wilsontimes.com/News/Feature/Story/What-was-your-utility-bill--Are-rates-too-high-or-fair--Click-here-to-comment-an

Petition To Dissolve the Arrangement Between ElectriCities and Wilson Energy/City of Wilson Utility Services And to repeal House Bill 556 of year 1995:
Please go here:
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150094775967577&id=1207549974
to add your info to the petition
Name/Address/ Phone#

***Please click the "ADD A NOTE" button to add your name/address/phone to sign this petition***

Thanks for your time and help!

Tuesday, November 09, 2010 at 10:05 PM GUS said...

ARE YOU KIDDING ME? HAVE YOU FORGOTTEN; THIS IS "WIDE AWAKE WILSON." HECK YEAH THE BILL IS TO HIGH. SO WHATS NEW?

Friday, November 05, 2010 at 4:02 PM Jackie said...

My utility bill was $482 last month. We have a saying around my house during the winter months-we pay $500-$600 a month to be cold.

Friday, November 05, 2010 at 12:34 AM Lucama Resident said...

Yes these bill are too high.. but they already know that and are not planning to do anything about it. Just raise the rates again when they need more money. It is a sad time when people cant put food on the table due to having to make a choice to feed there family or have heat? I am also planning on moving out of Wilson County at my first chance~

Thursday, November 04, 2010 at 11:09 AM said...

Rates are much to high compared to Raleigh, Gardner and other surrounding areas.

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 8:06 PM said...

Yes its too high, recently moved here little over a year ago and now since my lease is up im thinking about moving from Wilson because there are much better place with better rates!! they are ripping families off

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 4:27 PM said...

203.87 yes its too high. Single and living by myself. Plus Christmas and Winter months are coming up and the rates will be out of control. Last year it went up to 289

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 4:17 PM said...

My bill runs between $350.00 to $600.00 during the summer time and $700.00 to $800.00 during the winter. My mortgage was only $445.00 a month. My electrical bill is more then my mortgage. Yes I think my utility is to high especially when it's more then your rent or your mortgage.

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 11:04 AM Angry said...

Its a shame when we are huddled up around a space heater in the living room because we dont want to turn the heat on in fear of what it is going to cost us!! When things work out we will be LEAVING WILSON like many other businesses and residents!! Its so funny that the nicest looking place in that junkhole of a shopping mall is where you go to pay your utility bill!!!

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 10:50 AM PECCY said...

we all should get solar energy ...and put them out of bussiness.........

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 10:31 AM said...

i lived in new jersey for 25 years and never paid any thing like this ........this town skims off the top of the electric bill .......the town takes half of what ever you pay .......the town holds you hostage over a electric bill......electric bill,electric bill,electric bill,.......come on ...you gotta be kidding me ......its legal robbery.......if you have never lived anywhere else ...you don't have anything to judge it againest ......town buys it .....and makes a profit on it .....as do all the towns in north carolina ....its a game

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 10:27 AM DT said...

Yes, my utility bill has been outrageous for the past few months ranging from $270- $600. I don't understand how people from neighboring cities rates are incredibly lower than ours. This is a rip-off. Several organizations are supposed to be investigating, but meanwhile we are stuck struggling trying to pay this bill. Pay it or be stuck in the dark:(

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 6:37 AM said...

when I ask friendsin rockmout about thier bill its away cheaper than mains and they have alarger house than maine,same thing in wake county wayne and even jhonsne county,

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 6:18 AM Thomas Guinan said...

The question must be a joke. Our Utility bills are much too high.They average $675 a month. Our home is nine years old well insulated with energy efficient windows. We have not used our central air condition it cost us $325 if we cool our first floor at 76 degrees. We use one window unit for our master bedroom and office.
Electric cities does not need a COO and a CEO. The CEO earns $525,000 a year,plus a $10,000 car allowance to run a monopoly. WHY?

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 1:06 AM Raleigh resident said...

I grew up in Wilson, but now live in Raleigh. Yes, utility rates are extremely high in Wilson compared to Raleigh (my average bill is around $300/mo for a 2,700 sq. ft. house--water, sewer and gas are not included). But, the average home prices in Wilson are relatively cheap and I think it all washes out. I agree with other comments that the utility deal is bad for the citizens. Who controls that contract? Is it the city council or the utility department?

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 11:19 PM JWA said...

I am always on edge every month to see what amount the light bill will be and if ican pay before I will get acutoff notice. I have lived here 15 yrs moving form DC where things are soooo much different. Evrything here seems to revolve around the "cash cow " th city of wilson utilites I ahve had enough and do not know how much more that I can stand!!!!!

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 10:52 PM Larnell Thoms said...

174 that's with no AC or Heat....how ?? and Why? I've had a 204 bill while using AC in the Summer...

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 10:16 PM Tyler Currie said...

I am 18 years old and I am not a paying customer but my parents are and I am smart enough to realize that something is just not right about this. We are not the most wealthy family in Wilson County and I believe that I speak for MANY families across Wilson County when I say that something has got to give! I am not an adult, but I do see the strain that these extremely high bills are putting on numerous families across the county, including ours. In my opinion, unless Wilson wants to lose a great deal of the population, I strongly recommend them to change the rates and help out with these bills because we cant take it anymore. You ever wonder why the forclosure rate is so high? No wonder, everyone is struggling to pay the bill to keep electricity in their homes and they cant afford their everyday necessities! Something has got to give! Thank you.

Wednesday, November 03, 2010 at 9:22 PM The rates are too high... said...

we all know we are being scammed by the City of Wilson but they sold our souls to the devil along time ago with that contract. There is no one to vote out because there is nothing that can be done about it. We are legally bound.

Monday, November 01, 2010 at 7:18 PM David said...

I think what the city charges is fair BUT my problem is paying on time and in fear of getting cut off.Like I have been without work for over a year and my wife has had her hours cut and when you add in rent GreenlightBill Food and everything else it is very hard

Friday, October 29, 2010 at 6:45 PM Blue said...

I feel the utility rates are outrageous. I do not run my air conditioner nor the heat, wash clothes once a week, do not have a dish washer, and am never home, but to sleep and shower. I don't understand why my utility bill ranges from $300 - $650 a month for an area of 1300sq ft. I feel that the cith of Wilson is taking advantage of everyone! I can't imagine what those individuals do, that cannot pay for the high utility bills....
SHAME on the people that make the decisions for such high utility bills!!!

Friday, October 29, 2010 at 3:19 PM mg said...

mine was only $125 for a one bedroom here at thornberry in wilson. i just moved here from illinois where it would be about $40 a month for the month of August...so i guess its doubled. i won't turn my heat on as long as i can....i honestly can't afford too! how sad is that!?

Thursday, October 28, 2010 at 8:49 PM Latoya Melton said...

I really think that the utility cost era out of hand for everybody that all we work for now cant consider your other bills because your electric plays the main role in your bills.

Thursday, October 28, 2010 at 1:47 PM CB said...

Ok so this may sound dumb, but when is the vote to get whoever is in office responsible for these rates out? Who are they and what are their titles? I have no clue but I would really like to be part of that vote.

Thursday, October 28, 2010 at 8:49 AM Ridiculous said...

Does anyone go outside and look at the neighborhood homes at night? We ALL have our lights off, living by the light of the TV! We are attracting criminals because the electric bills are too high! I may work in Wilson, but won't live here too much longer. Maybe if we all move...

Wednesday, October 27, 2010 at 11:00 AM Wilson utilities are extremely high said...

My bill usually runs b/t $300-$400 a month. I stay in a 2 bedroom apt. No one is at home from 8am-7pm, so I don't understand why it is so high. For the first time ever this year my light bill was $208 and that is b/c we have not been running the air conditioner and we have started doing laundry at the laundry mat and not at home.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010 at 10:54 AM Gertrude Bullock said...

My utility bill run from $500.00 to $1000.00 each month. The rate are too high in the area of Wilson wher I live. I live in Wilson Historic area. I think it very unfair to the citizens of Wilson who have to pay out monies that they really don't have. I have constantly complained; but my bill remains the same. Please Mr. Major or Governor or even our Congressman. Please do something about the high utility ratesin the heart of Wilson. It take all of my source of income every month. I'm crying out for help
Thank you,
Long time citizen of Wilson
Gertrude Bullock

Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at 3:28 PM susan lamm said...

the rates are too high. it is ridiculous to have a $400.00 light bill and the home is empty 8 hours a day. how are people to survive?

Wednesday, October 20, 2010 at 9:48 AM $219.45 for everything said...

Only 59.13% of the utility bill is for electricity $129.75. The remainder is gas $17.27, pole light in yard $18.90,water $14.37, sewer/wastewater $16.76,garbage collection/solid waste $15, stormwater $2.94, sales tax on electricity $3.89 and sales tax on pole light $0.57. This is about the same amount I spend on groceries each month. I have not turned my heat on yet - scheduled to do that mid-November.

Sunday, October 17, 2010 at 7:18 AM K.Sherrod said...

yes rates are to high they give u five holds a year and its twelve moths in a year they should change that until economy is on track again times are hard utility is high and money is short!!!

Saturday, October 16, 2010 at 1:36 PM said...

TOO HIGH!!!!!! WILSON IS A RIP OFF TOWN!!! IM FROM CHICAGO WHO HAS MUCH MORE COLD WEATHER & NEVER HAD A BILL OVER $200 EVEN IN THE COLD ZERO BELOW WEATHER...

Wednesday, October 13, 2010 at 1:56 PM Louis said...

I have a successful food business in Goldsboro. I considered opening a second location in Wilson and was SHOCKED at what utilities cost in Wilson. (Our second location opened in Smithfield instead last June.) No plans for anything in Wilson until utility costs (and obnoxious bureaucratic red tape issues) are resolved.

Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 6:39 AM Margaret said...

too high, and I am very very conservative

Saturday, September 25, 2010 at 4:01 PM VA Native said...

This month our utility bill is $412.00!!! I live in a 3 bedroom duplex which is not that large!This is too much to pay. When you are a family of 4, trying to make ends meet, this is very difficult. My husband and I are trying hard to cut back, but when you have 2 teens in the house, it is not easy! Come On Wilson give us "poor folks" a break!!!!!!!!

Thursday, September 23, 2010 at 12:45 PM simply tired said...

Wilson citizens pay one and a half times higher than all surrounding areas. We are one of the highest in the COUNTRY. This is because of the city's plan to buy into electricites years back and now we are trying to pay them back. This will not happen for probably the next 30 years, with rates increasing every opportunity. Greenlight is another "genius" idea. Although the idea is good, and the service is great, the debt, "brains" and planning behind this is the problem. In the proposal for the bonds, listed here: http://www.scribd.com/doc/23884780/Wilson%E2%80%99s-Fiber-Optic-Cable-Boondoggle-City-Invests-28-Million-in-a-Technology-That-Could-Be-Obsolete-Before-It%E2%80%99s-Paid-For , it states that if Greenlight fails, they will pay back the $28 Million by RAISING ELECTRIC RATES AND PROPERTY TAXES!!! WHAT!!!?? So people, like myself, who live in an area where Greenlight is not yet offered, or those who cannot afford cable period, will have to PAY FOR IT in the end. You know what Greenlight's response is, "Better reason to shop with us." ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! You do not provide Greenlight in my area, but I will be expected to pay for it if it fails!? One more year, then we will be able to move from Wilson. I pray for those who have to stay.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010 at 9:56 AM D Whitley said...

I live just outside of the city so i pay for county water ..i have a deep well for car washing & plants, my water bill is 50.00-60.00 and with the electric ..my bill for July 369.00 Aug .386.00 we are living on a fixed income ..getting harder to make SS check cover all the monthly bills..

Thursday, September 16, 2010 at 10:07 AM wilson citizen2010 said...

The last two months, my bills was just under $500. The rates are still too high and I also do not think that this monopoly that Wilson Energy has is fair. But I guess that's why it is a monopoly.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010 at 4:57 PM Ditto Lucama said...

I get my electric bill from the town of Lucama and it is too high too-almost $400 for just electricity. We all should be able to choose our electric provider. I'd like Tri-County!

Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at 11:53 PM hadenough said...

ahhhh, yes I would say $491.00 for a 1200 sq ft house is OUTRAGEOUS!!!! We would move tomorrow if we could because of this very reason alone! The citizens of this town are being robbed by the great monopoly of Wilson Energy..

Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 5:24 PM D. PRIDGEN said...

MY LAST 3 LIGHT BILLS HAVE BEEN OVER $350.00 AND YES IT IS TOO HIGH. I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY WILSON'S BILLS ARE SO HIGH.

Monday, September 06, 2010 at 4:22 PM Anonymous said...

I am a child of a mother who struggles to keep our lights on and works a full-time job! What she makes in her check mostly all goes to her light bill! I feel that she should be able to at least have some money left to handle needs she have. Rates are way too high and its ridiculous. I feel that it is time for a huge change.

Sunday, September 05, 2010 at 12:52 AM eyes on you said...

My mom lives in a one bedroom apartment in Wilson and her light bill was 177.00. We live in a two story house and our light bill was a little over 300.00. Now there is something wrong with this picture. My mom is on a fixed income and cannot pay this kind of light bill. Wilson must be crazy to think people that are on a fixed income can continue to pay light bills like this.

Saturday, September 04, 2010 at 11:15 AM Concerned Citizen said...

Utility Bills are entirely too high. I hate to see winter coming due to the utility bill and it is sad when you have decent jobs and most of your money go to the utility company and not the mortgage company.

Thursday, August 26, 2010 at 12:30 PM GUS said...

HAS THIS SUBJECT NOT BEEN COVERED BEFORE?
YES THE WILSON RATES ARE TOO HIGH AND GUESS WHAT, THEY WILL STAY HIGH UNTIL AND ONLY UNTIL, THE CITIZENS OF WILSON DO SOMETHING ABOUT OUR GOVERNMENT!! VOTE THEM OUT - NOT ONE -NOT TWO, BUT EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010 at 11:19 AM lj said...

too far gone these light bills are

Tuesday, August 17, 2010 at 12:20 PM To T.D. said...

This has helped us tremendously; I hope it helps you.
1. Keep your air conditioner on 82 degrees in summer and 68 in winter.
2. Run your ceiling fans all the time...with the blade tilting up from left to right should be high running clockwise in the summer and counterclockwise in the winter on low- (vice versa if the blades tilt the opposite way.)
3. Always keep your ceiling fans dusted as well as your air conditioning filers and vents clean.
4. Do not run major appliances like the washer, dryer, dishwasher, and vacuum cleaner at the same time- especially during peak times of the day.
5. Keep all windows closed with shades, blinds, or curtains during the day (summertime). If you have to be able to see out, tilt your blinds where you can look through them angled to the ground instead of the sky. This reflects more sun back outside.
6. Check the insulation on your home. Make sure there are no gaps or needs updating.
7. Make sure chimney flue is closed properly when not in use.
8. Make sure you have quality storm doors and vinyl replacement windows.
9. Replace any old appliances with energy efficient appliances.
Anyway, this is what we've done, and it has helped us out so much.

Monday, August 16, 2010 at 4:42 PM Choices; said...

My mom recently moved to N.C. from South Florida. I helped her find a place to live and highly recommended against moving to Wilson. My suggestion was Clayton, b/c it would cost her less to commute to and from work than to pay for the electric rate here in Wilson. We did the math and she would save about 50.00 to 80.00 per month, that’s a lot if you add it up annually. The drive gives her some time to unwind after work and a reasonable cost of living. I would have loved to have my mom closer but I didn’t want her to have to stress out over a power bill like I do. I love Wilson but I wouldn’t recommend anyone move here until we are done with this electric rate craziness. I live in the county, my bill was 280.00 this month and that’s just for electricity. We have the thermal curtains to keep the air in, we have weather efficient appliances, and my husband installed new window and weather stripping. We are left with no choice but to vote for a new panel to protect our rights and our cost of living.

Saturday, August 14, 2010 at 11:14 AM T.D. said...

The utility is slowing rising again. $615 is way too high. We have tried everything we could think of to lower the bill. Nothing is working. Infact, the bill is rising while we are using less energy..... Can someone please step in and help us. My family truely can not afford this.

Saturday, August 14, 2010 at 8:21 AM Lisa said...

My bill is entirely to HIGH!!!!! Goes up every month no matter what I do. We keep out air conditioner set very high and our bill is still very close to $600 a month which is crazy considering I live in a 800 sq.ft. house. Also the city is charging way too much considering what they are paying for it.

Friday, August 13, 2010 at 3:03 PM Donald Vaughan said...

Look at what city of wilson signed years ago to go into electric cities I think you will find the problem

Friday, August 13, 2010 at 9:26 AM Phillip said...

rates are too high. surrounding counties have lower rates because they allow an outside source. wilson county is too money hungry.

Friday, August 13, 2010 at 8:43 AM adam said...

I have just moved back into a home that I lived in a year ago. My light bill stayed around 125.00.
Now that I have moved back in the light bill is between 300.00 - 400.00 dollars.
Something needs to be done about the high rates are I will move out of wilson county.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at 6:19 PM Juanita Moore said...

Utility bill goes up each month...that along with paying taxes and death...is a SURE thing! I hope that those are responsible are SO NOT sleeping at night!

Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at 2:28 PM vote them out said...

I think the utilities are high aswell. I have noticed businesses closes and stating high utilities as the cause. We will end up paying for Greenlight when it is all said and done and this was supposed to bring in business. They are running as fast as they can. I will vote against every incumbent on the city council and pray for some new blood to work for the people instead of working for their self interest!!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at 12:59 PM Wondering??????? said...

Would it be possible for a citizen (or the citizens) of Wilson to contract with Progress Energy or Duke Energy to provide their electricity? We are able to decide who provides our cable services.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at 12:13 PM Sarah said...

Last month our entire utility bill totaled $273.89 - this amount was the total for all charges - electric, water, gas, etc. This month just the electricity alone was $274.74. We kept all blinds closed during the day to block out the sun and keep the interior of our home cooler. This was done due to the intense heat. We were being pro-active in an effort to avoid the high bills received during the Winter months. However, our efforts were not reflected in our latest utility bill. We have all energy efficient applicances, the city has installed "load management" to our hot water heater and gas pack, we use cold water for laundry and a minimal amount of hot water for showers, we have replaced original windows with high effiency windows, replaced weather stripping, installed two attic exhaust fans, use no lights during the day, etc. We just give up.....nothing we do seems to help......it seems that the City of Wilson is going continue to rob us, regardless of how much we try to conserve.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at 11:34 AM Terry Edwards said...

Utility bills are extremely high, and for those who live on a small or limited income, it causes the individual/family to make life-changing and possibly detrimental decisions. These decisions are the type society doesn't believe or chooses to look over, like walking past an embarrassing mess that belongs to someone else. But no one worries until they are in that position. By then, no one will help and it becomes a choice of electricity or food or medicine. It's a never ending cycle that throws those involved into a destructive tornado of depression. Have mercy and offer help to those you can.

Monday, August 09, 2010 at 12:58 AM said...

The problem with most of everybodys light bill is they live in an older house and the insulation is not as great as it should be. Over time insulation gets thiner, having low e in your windows will help and that only became mandatore in the last 2 years, if the homeowner's would do the upgrade to better insulation when buying the house that will help with the bill. Also the rates are high and need to be lowered. Doing a lil bit of green can help with your bill. By weatherstriping all your doors windows and attic doors will help and also they make a radient barrier that you can staple to your rafters and it will reflect the radent heat back out. All those items i just listed you can do yourself and it will probley only cost about $250 and will help with your bill.

Saturday, August 07, 2010 at 1:34 PM John said...

I live in Wilson for 10 years, was frustrating with trying to make my house energy efficent but my bill still too high so decided to move to Carteret County. Finally first time for 10 years, I got 40 dollars electric bill during summer! GOOD Riddance WILSON!

Wednesday, August 04, 2010 at 6:43 AM flatpockets from utility bill said...

1 person + 1 bedroom apt + work 8-12/day w/ thermostat on 85 = $240.....just riduculous. Rates are way too high.

Tuesday, August 03, 2010 at 2:12 PM said...

Ithink our church bill was to high,for only 3 times a week.It was over 500 dollard

Tuesday, August 03, 2010 at 10:41 PM L. Eatmon said...

The light bills are very high. I have a house in Nash co and the bills are much more reasonable. The light bills in Wilson are more than my mortgage used to be. We keep our therostat on 78-79 too.

Friday, July 30, 2010 at 7:57 PM get a programmable thermostat said...

I installed a programmable thermostat last year and my utility bills have been FINE. I set it for about 83 when I'm away during the day (work) and have it set to about 79 when I come home around 5:00 and have had no problems. I put it back up to about 82 at night--when it is cooler anyway--and have had NO PROBLEMS. Your problem is if it is set at one temperatue (79--and it is 95 every day--then your AC is going to work ALL DAY LONG. COME ON PEOPLE--it isn't hard to understand. PLEASE TRY THAT--complaining is getting you no where.

Friday, July 30, 2010 at 4:10 PM pretty pleased said...

I was pretty pleased with my bill for the summer so far. Last month it was $79 and this month it is $121. I keep my air set on 75-76 degrees. My ac runs day and night. I dread the winter though!!! Because I am pretty sure the city is going to sock it to us!!!

Friday, July 30, 2010 at 3:38 PM Chuck said...

I am tired of this situation with the outrageously high utilities in Wilson. Bill this month is $726.16. This with thermostat on 78 degrees - all lights cut off - eating more cold foods! I wonder how many of the businesses that have recently closed is because of their utility bills. My wife & I have decided that as soon as the real estate market has a rebound that we are getting out of Wilson to some area that has a fairer utility rate. Man! What a great town Wilson has become.Yeah!

Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 1:20 PM Michael said...

Why are all of our bills so high in Wilson? Wilson City Council decided to enter into a Coop agreement with the Sharon Haris Nuclear facility. But don't worry the city only has in the neighborhood of 300 to 400 hundred million dollars to pay it off!!! So all of our utility bills will not be going down anytime soon. Another brilliant move by our city council is our beloved 20 million dollar venture Green Light. This is another invasion of government's invasion into private enterprise. the $20 million dollar project was never offered in a Bond referendum for Wilson citizens to vote. I can think of numerous ways to spend $20 million dollars for Wilson citizens; repairing city roads (how is Airport Blvd's road condition looking to you?); sidewalks in your neighborhoods so you can walk in safety; anyone own a bicycle? enter Wilson's roads at your own risk because there are no bike trails in your neighborhood!!! We were told by our city council that Green Light was necessay to attract businesses to our area...uh these services were already here for businesses. It is time for the citizens of Wide Awake Wilson to trully be wide awake on local issues and to know the people sitting on the city council. You get what you vote.

Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 10:16 AM TPL said...

I've been keeping my A/C on 81 Degrees during the day, whether we are home or not. At night I have to run it down to be able to sleep and work the next day. My electric bill was still high this month. I hate winter but I'm ready for it!!!

Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 9:50 AM Ronnie said...

When your utility bill is as high or higher as your rent/mortgage there is something wrong. Checkout surrounding counties and compare. In Wilson a two bed apt can have a bill of anywhere from $500-800 per month. That is unreal. We need to have a outside independent investigation of the rates that Wilson Energy is charging preferably on the State/Federal Level, as they know they are the only game in town and do what they want to.

Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 9:08 AM Dean High said...

The bill we received in July was one and one half times the amount of the bill in June. Wilson has the highest utility rates in eastern NC. I have co-orkers who commute from Greenville, Goldsboro, and Zebulon. One of the biggest reasons they do not seek housing in Wilson is the utility rates. The city is killing itself.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at 8:05 AM concerned said...

3 months ago, my lightbill averaged 150 to 200. 2 months ago, the bill was 244. 1 month ago, my bill was 364. What concerns me is I havent lived in my own home in 3 months. I havent cooked, slept, I havent actually been inside the place long enough to receive a phone call. Now I am concerned.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at 11:40 PM Katie said...

The utilities are way to expensive. It cost me as much to provide utilities for a two bedroom apartment as it does for my parents in a four bedroom house. Outrageous!

Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at 9:18 PM heart broken said...

yes, the utilities here in Wilson are off the chain. Everyone is talking about what they can't afford and their business. What about the elderly who lives on a fixed income. They don't even stand a chance. With the hot heat and all, they are afraid of turning on their AC, due the big electric bill they will receive. My heart just goes out to them. I pray God bless people who are less fortunate than I. I am not rich by know means, but I often think of others before myself. I can make it, but what about the young children and the elderly. They are suffering more than we are because they are the more sensitive to the cold and heat. I say, "Our Land Needs A Healing."

Monday, July 26, 2010 at 4:04 PM sick of this said...

What in the world can we the public do about these crooks ripping us off?I will vote against everyone of them for one thing.

Friday, July 23, 2010 at 11:51 AM Wilson Bye Bye said...

Boy I hate this city...and yes we are moving out as soon as the next potential buyer doesn't ask the realator about the utility bills. Let it be someone elses problem, we have been robbed long enough! Is there some lawyer out there that sees the merit of a class action suit against this crooked city. Change has got to start with the decision makers so at the next election, get rid of these idiots. We will not be here to vote. Sorry to anyone stuck in this god-forsaken place. And were closing our buisness and taking that with us.

Thursday, July 22, 2010 at 5:36 PM old resident said...

WILSON ELECTRIC IS ROBBING THEIR CITIZENS. THEY SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED. I MOVED OUT OF WILSON COUNTY AND WILL NEVER GO BACK. FROM THERE ELECTRIC AND GAS TO THERE SCHOOL SYSTEMS IT WAS MISSERABLE. I WOULDNT RECOMMEND WILSON COUNTY TO ANYONE. SMARTEN UP PEOPLE AND GET OUT WHILE YOU CAN.

Thursday, July 22, 2010 at 9:54 AM SusieQ said...

When will the Wilson leaders admit to the fact that the utility rates are too high and prevents small business owners to move here are stay here. So many small business's have left wilson because of the utility rates. They can not pay the high rates like a large corporation can, I have co-workers who live in muncipalties all around Wilson because of the utility rates.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 10:03 PM Jeanne Creel said...

I live in Wilson County and I am on Perment Disability. My eletric bill is higher than my monthly rent. I live by myself and I keep all of my breakers off all the time except when I need to use them. When I lived in Wayne County I was using Progress Energy and man the light bill was like 58.00 a month as I am very conservative. You have the fat cats and I am talking about those elected officals we put in office awhile back that needs a reality check. Take away their high saliery, bonus, cars that we pay them to ride around on and see if they can make if on what we do. Why do u think people are leaving Wilson and why do you think it is so hard to get companies to move to Wilson with offering them rediculious fees to come here. When they do come here and see that they were lied to, they simply leave Wilson. I think I will be moving back to Wayne County so I can eat, buy my medicine and pay my rent and electric bill.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 9:48 PM Jeanne Creel said...

Wilson County is one of the highest utility company I know of. My electric bill averages300-400 a month. I live by myself, cut the breakers off of everything I am not using, keep my thermostat 80 in the summer and 64 in the winter. When I lived in Pikeville it was with Progress Engery. The bills were so low you could actually buy groceris and your medicine. I will be moving out of Wilson due to the high utility cost. And where does the money go?? It goes in mangement's pocket. That is where if goes. The high saleries they get, the bonuses, the cars and gas they provide them. Just rediculous (sp).

Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 9:33 PM JGB said...

$500 for June!!! Rediculous!!! A friend of mine living in my same house plan in Nash County on Progress Energy had a $268 bill for June. I asked him what he kept his a/c on and he told me 73 or 74 every day. We have NEVER had a bill in June over $375 except the past 2 years, $428 and $500!! We also have upgraded 15 seer a/c units and upgraded blown in cellulose insulation and the bills just keep going up! Doesn't make any sense!!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at 4:54 PM Cathy Heeley said...

My bill last month was the highest ever! The utilities and taxes in Wilson are considerably higher compared to other areas of North Carolina. It not only makes it hard to afford to live here, it is a huge negative for drawing business here.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at 7:38 AM Gary Strange said...

The rates here are ridiculous. I would like to see an external audit to find out where the money is actually going. If 10 miles from Wilson, the rates are as much as half of what we pay, what are we doing and why are we putting up with it?

Monday, July 19, 2010 at 4:49 PM Maggie said...

I wish the rates are lower ...its no fun having to pay more for utilities.

Monday, July 19, 2010 at 11:35 AM sonnieC said...

My electric bill for june was $186.30 with all the washing my wife does and running the AC and my power equipment I use out in my garage I am very satisfied with the price.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010 at 10:29 AM TPL said...

My bill was $400.oo this month. I called to see if I could pay $250.00 of it now and the balance in 2 weeks. It was like asking for gold. I've never had to do that before and they made a big deal about it. I was already embarassed and then felt like a criminal! I thought they were supposed to be willing to help people out with their high utility bills???? All I was asking for was 2 weeks and I paid the majority of it up-front. Thanks (for nothing) Wilson Energy!!!!!!

Tuesday, July 13, 2010 at 2:56 PM looking forward said...

The mayor and city council led us to believe that joining the co-op would help grow and improve the city of wilson!Obviously that hasn't happened but you all must realize that this is only the beginning!Over the next 25 years as more people leave wilson,what is that going to do with the greenlight project.How much are we all going to have to pay for that fiasco.The M ayor and council said that Greenlight would attract more bussiness to Wilson well I think we are still waiting to see that happen!The city of wilson is in serious trouble.The elected officials are going to kill this city and by the time "WE" realize what has happened they will all be retired and collecting pensions and kick backs from greenlight.If we the citizens had any common sense we would have boycotted greenlight from the start,instead it is going to be a thorn in our side for years to come,just like the co-op!!!

Monday, July 12, 2010 at 5:07 PM said...

IT'S JUST LIKE THE PRICE OF GASOLINE, YOU PAY WHAT THEY WANT YOU TO PAY. THEY MAKE YOU PAY BECAUSE THEY CAN,NO ONE IS ON THE LITTLE PEOPLES SIDE.
WE ARE THE WORKER BEES AND THEY ARE THE QUEENS.
TRY TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT AND YOU WILL BE COLD AND IN THE DARK.

Saturday, July 10, 2010 at 3:16 PM DEBORAH SMITH said...

MY ELECTRIC BILL IS AND HAS BEEN GREAT EVER SINCE I MOVED FROM THE APT ON 813-A GROVE ST IN WHICH WAS 2 BEDROOMS IN WHICH YOU COULD SEE THE WHOLE HOUSE FROM 1 ROOM AND NOW I HAVE A 3 BR 2 BATH HOUSE HUGE AND MY ELECTRIC BILL IS HALF OF WHAT I WAS PAYING FOR THAT SHACK I WAS LIVING IN. TO GOD BE THE GLORY.....

Thursday, July 08, 2010 at 8:36 PM John K said...

Been in Nashville for 4 months now and got my first summer bill.It was 209.64 for month of June and last year in Wilson the bill was 425.32.I set my air 5 degrees lower amd washed/dryed everyday.In Wilson I had to hang clothes so electric bill be cheaper.I honestly do think the meters are messed up or fixed.I use more energy here and something is not adding up about Wilson energy power usage for customers.

Wednesday, July 07, 2010 at 9:21 AM Daniel said...

Actually, my electric bill is quite low for Wilson. For the past two months they were 50 dollars (May) and 80 dollars (June). Of course, I check my electric usage practically every day (read the meter) and we don't use AC except when we have company. For a 1800 sf home it costs about 15-20 dollars a day to use AC in the summer here. Check your meter, Wilson energy just reads how much energy you have used. If they misread it you can call them and they will correct it. Also, I made my own solar water heater and put it on my roof. That cut my electric by a third.

Wednesday, July 07, 2010 at 11:51 PM Still Concern why my bill keeps creeping up if I am not home. said...

Yes, my bill still keeping getting high. I am away from my home unil at least 10:30pm at night and I leave my temp on 80degree because I am not home to after 10:00pm doing the week and I leave home before 7:00am every day. So when I get in I just turn on the fans. Each month my bill keeps iinching up $20 to $30 dollars.

Tuesday, July 06, 2010 at 10:56 AM nick said...

I live in small house, I don"t have a washer or dryer, no tv, brand new energy saver appliances, programmable thermostat set conservatively, energy saver bulbs and my bill averages 400 a month. My father in law just moved down from new hampshire, he said his average bill is was 25.00 a month. Why is ours so high?

Sunday, July 04, 2010 at 3:23 AM kendra hawley said...

too high. we aren't charged for what we actually use, just what the town wants to charge us.

Thursday, July 01, 2010 at 10:15 PM TPL said...

My electric bill was almost $400.00 this month! Geeze! Give me a break! This is rediculous!!!

Wednesday, June 30, 2010 at 8:39 AM Imagine this... said...

Business owner has 2 restaurants in Wilson...bought another closed restaurant, but decides to open another location in NASHVILLE where they give discount to business owners. I am ashamed to say I live in Wilson and this is how we treat business and home owners.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 7:44 PM al said...

I rent a very small two bedroom one bath house...my utilitie bill has always been more than 200.00...which is almost what I pay in rent.its very disturbing that its been going on this long...as long as wilson is making its penny I guess!

Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 10:53 AM said...

187.00 dollars. Yes they too high. No it is not fair. Somebody is making a lot of money of wilson residents. Our lawmakers should do something about it. We are in hard times and people cant afford these high bills. Other companys dont charge as much. We should have a choice to chose from other utility companys such as cp@l. They are much cheaper than the city of wilson.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 9:51 PM Roanne Rowan said...

Interesting that when comparing utilities with other local and regional NC areas, Wilson is always considerably higher. This does not seem equitable or a good feature to entice business or individuals to move to Wilson. Also, recently was shown on the computer that Wilson's water doesn't meet standards. I've lived in Wilson (not by choice)for almost 20 years; however, I remember the first day I went to work my supervisor told me never to drink Wilson water.
For more than 20 years, residents have known that the quality of the water is questionale--but no one seems to do anything about it...except continue to pay exorbitant prices for it!

Friday, June 25, 2010 at 3:16 PM Countrygirl said...

My utility bill is twice what it was in Ohio and it is colder there in the winter. I do not understand why I am paying over $400 a month for utilities. I know that some people are paying more than I am, but my house is small and we are not here during the day. I sweat in the summer and freeze in the winter because I am afraid to turn my thermostat. I cannot afford to be comfortable. Something needs to be done soon. Others around us pay less than we do, so why do we have to pay so much more. I think someone is getting rich from the people in Wilson County.

Friday, June 25, 2010 at 10:54 AM LaTessier Harris said...

Yes it was high and they want me to pay 808.76 and i don't have a job and i have 4 little kids and Dss don't want to help me and i just got an eviction notice on my door i really need help.

Monday, June 21, 2010 at 12:56 PM Chris Johnson said...

After examining my bill and the bills of others provided service by other companies, I have found that Wilson's rates average 4-5 cents higher per kWh. We pay around 15 cents per kWh while others very close by and nationally average about 10-11 cents per kWh. In essence we pay about %150 of what others close by pay. This is ridiculous, unjustified given the poor service we often experience when there is a problem. I guess they use the electric rates to supplement a budget shortfall elsewhere. This seems to be just plain wrong.

Sunday, June 20, 2010 at 10:17 AM BW said...

Everyone saved water and and the city needed more revenue, so they increased the water rate and also increased other rates for garbage etc. I have lived all over the US and the same "trick" is used nationwide to increase revenue. We need different managers. Without revenue, a politician's hands are tied. I suggest permanent handcuffs!!!

Monday, June 14, 2010 at 10:13 AM Sharon said...

If you ask how much the average utility bill for property is, the City of Wilson will not tell you anymore. They did years ago. That is major information to know before you buy or rent! Why?

Monday, June 14, 2010 at 8:21 AM Sharon Johnson said...

I have family and friends thatlive all over the country. We pay at least 3 times what they pay. Check out what PG&E, CP&L, Duke power,and even Virgina Power and Light customers pay on average. They get upset if their bill is over $150. My bill just started being under $300 the last 3 months, and I live in a 900 sf duplex!

Monday, June 14, 2010 at 8:17 AM January said...

What difference does it make if your electric bill is reduced a few dollars when the garbage and water bills are going to increase. I also would like to know why there is a fee for the red recycle bin. Does the city sell the recycles they pick up? If so where does that money go.

Saturday, June 12, 2010 at 5:36 PM Lower bill... said...

did the city cut the rates by 75%? My bill is a shadow of its former wrinkled self. Oh, my bad. I DID NOT use that much. It appears the weather man gets the thank you for my lower bill. However, I cannot wait till the temps get high again :) I will love blaming someone else for my turning on the air condition and running it constantly!

Wednesday, June 09, 2010 at 11:41 AM Annette said...

I purchased a home on Lake Wilson Road little over a year ago, and I my utility bill has come very close to being as much as my mortgage payment. Something should be done about this, I cant imagine how people on a fixed income are paying thier bills and able to have food and shelter. Also other resources in the community suffer, such as DSS, although I know that receive funds to help those who need it, but I am sure they have had a large increase in the clients that they help.

Tuesday, June 08, 2010 at 4:17 PM Ed said...

My energy bill has been at least 40% higher compared to my old residence in Robeson Co., It seeems to me that minimizing electricity use makes it even worse... now I care less about saving energy since money is not being saved by doing so. Wilson Energy needs a change... a change for the good!

Tuesday, June 08, 2010 at 1:50 PM delores said...

my light bill for the last few months has been over 500 dollars; i'm a single parent; and have no other income coming in i just can't seem to stay ahead; i have to take money from other bills just to pay the light bill; i don't know what else to do

Tuesday, June 08, 2010 at 10:56 PM Ann said...

I get surprised every time i get my bills. For the past few months they have been not cheap but fair, for all the air conditioning we use its good.
thanks

Tuesday, June 08, 2010 at 9:59 PM cfinch said...

my light bill was 1000 dollars last month i live in lucama, in the country, why so high? did nothing different than any other month. Its ridiculous. something needs to be done.

Monday, June 07, 2010 at 1:10 PM They think we're stupid said...

In reference to CB's comment/ To the city of Wilson: Robbing Peter to pay Paul is not the answer!!! TRY AGAIN

Sunday, June 06, 2010 at 8:01 PM CB said...

Haha yea I see where we are getting a verry small rate reduction on our electric but they are raising our water and garbage pick up rates!!!! What a joke...

Sunday, June 06, 2010 at 11:19 PM marshall said...

the usuage of gas for this past winter was extremely even though I used energy saving space heaters my gas was higher then the electric

Saturday, June 05, 2010 at 10:25 PM Aree with wake up Wilson said...

These people have been in office too long, and feels if though they own these position. New leadership and ideas are badly needed. We need leaders who care about the people and what they can do to help better our city.

Tuesday, June 01, 2010 at 11:13 AM WAKE UP Wilson!!! said...

People are moving away from Wilson and some never move here to this greedy city!!!!!!!! I don't know why I am typing because no one downtown cares!!! I say we ALL need to check with some lawyers!!! And sue the City of Wilson!!!!!!! we need to also elect new members to the city and county offices!! Including the Mayor!!!

Monday, May 31, 2010 at 6:56 PM Sharpsburg citizen said...

Yes the light bills are too high.Cant pay any thing else because of the HIGH LIGHT BILLS here.Cant provide food or nothing this is just CRAZY,they just estimate our bills here.Do not give enough time on us paying our bill what is 2wks.to pay a bill this high its not enough time we need LONGER.

Sunday, May 30, 2010 at 4:59 PM Fed Up said...

My bill last month was almost $500. We have a 4 bedroom home and are gone all day. We keep lights off and try not to run air as much as possible. We are from out of state originally and we had a larger house and horrible winters, and we never paid over $200 for electric, gas, water, and sewer. Perhaps Wilson Energy needs to reduce the number of cars I see driving around and keep the baseball lights off when no one is there. Perhaps they need new management and another electric company to keep them honest. I also want to know why people in another town who get energy from Wilson pay less than we do? Does not make sense! Perhaps greed needs to give way to common sense!

Saturday, May 29, 2010 at 7:36 AM suzieq said...

Vote the incumbents OUT ! ! !

Tuesday, May 25, 2010 at 7:09 PM Creech said...

the utility bills have always been to high. It's just a money making project. Those folks on fixed income, I feel so sorry for and you people need to search your hearts and come down with the real people.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010 at 10:34 AM Evadne said...

Yes the utility bill is too High, especially for people that is struggling to feed his or her children. There is no way a utility should double or trible when you are hardly at home using the utility. It does not make any sense. The explaination that is being given makes the situation worst. If they are honest and say that around that time in the month, they are given people estimate bill or even plugging the number I will still be angry. It is not fiar. All extra money going to the city for wrong decision they themselves know they make and the kids is being punish for it.

Monday, May 24, 2010 at 10:53 AM Sandra said...

Yes the utility bill is to high. I was away from my home for 2 weeks in the month of February and my bill was higher then it was in the months of January and December. Now help me to undersand that.

Friday, May 21, 2010 at 4:28 AM Timothy said...

What was my utility bill? TOO MUCH!! Yes, the rates are too high and they are unfair. Something needs to be done about it now!

Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at 3:00 PM C4L said...

My wife and I were considering moving to wilson but after reading and listening to people gripe about the high electric bills we've decided to stay put. Good luck with the fight!

Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at 1:08 PM L Moore said...

Absolutely to high; I am for any bill that will limit spending without a public vote. In addition to term limits for public office.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at 8:38 AM mike said...

I THINK WE ARE BEING TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF IN THIS MATTER. IT IS UNFAIR AND SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE ABOUT IT. WE NEED TO FIND SOMEONE ELSE WHO SELLS ENERGY. MAYBE THEN THEY WILL THINK TWICE ABOUT TAKING ADVANTAGE OF US.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at 2:13 AM Out Of Town said...

I had planned on buying a house in wilson, to be closer to my family. Now i am looking eles where. And my family is moving out of wilson. Where i live now i pay 89.00 to 95.00 a month for electricity,water,sewer.I have a three bed room home, with a two car garge.My highes bill this past winter was 139.59. Why would any one want to move to wilson. Yes i come to wilson 4 to 5 times a year. And wilson would of been a nice place to live, but i can not afford a house payment and a utility bill that is higher than my house payment, Or just as much. Good luck.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at 3:16 PM Buffy said...

Way to high. Trying to pay rent, by food for my family, pay other bills. I dont make enough to pay everything. So i never can pay a bill on time.Can i get help no i make 2 dollars to much. Thats what you get for working.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at 12:35 PM Not Me said...

We have heard about the high rates in Wilson and tell people not to move there because of the high rates. People should just move and leave Wilson holding the bag. They can have my electricity!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at 11:32 PM Too high said...

I live in a mobile home and my bill is higher than my relatives living in a house in a different county. I believe rates are too high for wilson county residents. But, will anyone that controls the rates hear us out and lower them??????

Sunday, May 16, 2010 at 12:35 AM miles neely said...

I feel they are too high compared to other cities and towns around.

Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at 11:28 AM Jack said...

Highest in the area, TOO HIGH!!!!
I am thinking of moving my business

Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at 7:45 AM Lee Hunter said...

The utility service is over the roof. It is ridiculous looking at the responses of the people at this site. My utilities for the month of Jan. and Feb. were almost 600 dollars and the following months were almost 400. This is robbery and the citizens of Wilson need new leadership that is concerned about the citizens and their well-being. Not just lining their pockets with the taxpayers money. Someone will have to answer for there greed!!!

Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at 10:14 AM Hipshot said...

At least the folks who live in the City of Wilson get to cast a vote to remove the elected officials who are responsible for the mess at Wilson Energy. We pay the highest electric rates in NC (higher than Rocky Mt, Elizabeth City and all the other so called "Electricities".
I live in the County so I don't even get to cast a vote to remove the individuals who are responsible for this mess. Those of us who live in the County and are served by an Electricity should ask the General Assembly to allow residents who have no voice on the Boards of Electricities like Wilson and Rocky Mount to chose their own energy providers. It's simply not fair to "tax" me with high energy rates and then not give me a voice on election day.
My wife and I own a rental house in Wilmington served by Progress Energy. It has been vacant for a couple of months, but our electric bill for the past month was $40.34 and we used 351 kwh. Our home in Wilson County consumed 1276 kwh and the bill was 192.09. You do the math! I could save almost 25% on my power bill if I could run a drop cord to a Progress Energy power pole!

Monday, May 10, 2010 at 9:39 AM dianna said...

Mine was 300.00. I live in a samll 2 bedrom house and I am never home. This is the lowest one in 4 months this is insane. I am never home. I can't believe that they are this high!

Saturday, May 08, 2010 at 8:14 PM concerned said...

My utility is TOO HIGH! I cant believe that our mayor and our city council has put us in this mess! I hope the citizens will remember this coming novemember and lets get rid of this group of people. We did it with the sheriff and now we need to pull together and remove them out of office.

Thursday, May 06, 2010 at 10:29 PM David Smallwood said...

I moved from Wilson to the City of Durham in 2009. My utility bill in Durham City/County includes water, sewer, gas, electricity, solid waste and recycling. I pay less than half of what I paid back in Wilson and never reduced the size of my home or the amount of electricity/gas/water/sewer from the past. I suspect that the "co-op" that Wilson is included in continues to rape the citizens of Wilson. Good luck to all of you former neighbors.

Wednesday, May 05, 2010 at 7:47 PM David Smallwood said...

I moved away from Wilson in 2009 to Durham, NC and my utility bill including water, sewer, electricity, gas, and trash and recycling is nearly half what I paid in Wilson. Yes, the rates are too high back in Wilson. I live in the city of Durham so there is no reason why the costs are higher back in Wilson. I think the "co-op" that Wilson participates in is a big waste of money! Good luck folks!

Wednesday, May 05, 2010 at 7:39 PM Sheila Dreps said...

It is really sad that your utility bill is half as much as your house payment. Considering moving to get away from these high utility bills. Just can't afford to stay warm.

Wednesday, May 05, 2010 at 11:04 AM Aaron said...

My utility bill was 175.00 after not running my AC unit for 40 days almost and being single. The rates are much too high, and it has cost me some good credit by having to pay other bills late this winter.

Wednesday, May 05, 2010 at 10:39 AM Hendricks said...

Duh !?! Way too high for this struggling economy! The only ones making money are the utility companies but you won't hear them say that. EVERYBODY must pitch in to get us out of this recession, and not be so greedy!

Wednesday, May 05, 2010 at 10:28 AM Bunn said...

.....way to high compared to places like Raleigh

Wednesday, May 05, 2010 at 7:49 AM M. Doyle said...

If you live in Wilson, you would not be asking this question because majority o f Wilson residences have high light bills. My mother is on a fixed income and most of the time her light bill is a little less than what she received monthly to live on and to top it off, she cannot get assistance from the city because she owns her home. Every month is a struggling for her to make ends meet mainly because of her high utility bill, which is an outrage. Why should my mother get rid of her home just for assistance from the City when the City is the one that put all the residences in this situation due to their poor decision-making?

Wednesday, May 05, 2010 at 10:03 PM CHRISTINA said...

Rates are way to high. As a working class low to mid income household it is really hard to pay these high bills. Sometimes we have to make hard choices in what we pay and what we buy just to stay afloat. When will this ever end? Now summer is here and bills will get higher. Our elderly mother on a fixed income has a very hard time paying these bills. Where is the help for them???

Tuesday, May 04, 2010 at 8:52 AM Shamiya23 said...

As soon as we can save enough money and pay some bills off. My husband and I are moving out of the city of Wilson. This is mainly because of the HIGH UTILITY BILLS! I wish everyone would move out of the city of Wilson and see how the City Manager likes that!!

Sunday, May 02, 2010 at 11:19 AM Angie said...

Yes, Light bills are out of comtrol. Its ashame so many people can not afford to turn on their air or heat to stay a little comfortable. Even with it turned off it is still to high. Somethings not right. We will be relocating because of this. Wilson just does not realize the mistake they are making. But i am sure they will before long.

Saturday, May 01, 2010 at 9:56 AM Dave said...

Our Current bill? $265.
Utility bills here in Wilson have NEVER been fair since I began paying them myself some 22 years ago.
Here is a prime example of what I mean...
When my wife and I first got married, we lived in my childhood home that was built in the early to mid 1950's about a block from Flemming Stadium. As anyone who knows this area can attest, the homes are not all that large, with only a few probably over 1,500 square feet. In fact even after an addition to our home in the mid 1960's by my parents, the home was just a little over 1,100 square feet - total.
Somewhere around the mid 1990's my wife and I began to see our utility bills almost DOUBLE (to the penny) for the billing cycle of June to July. This continued for 3 more years until we had had all we could take.
I went to the city's utilities manager with the concurrent bills in hand for the past three years showing where the bill "literally" doubled in one month from around $200 to some $400! NO home with less than 1,200 square feet should be using that much electricity unless the home was completely void of insulation all together in my opinion! Keep in mind this home was also brick!
The city never offered my wife and I any "real explanation" for this anomaly. The only olive branch the city offered was to send out one of there inspectors to "see" where the home might be losing energy.
After an extensive review of our little home (checking insulation throughout, windows, doors, attic, etc.) the inspector concluded that our 10 year old central heating and air unit was the culprit of our energy loss.
Within the next 6 months the compressor of our old unit went out forcing us to purchase a new central heating and air unit.
Once the unit was installed I set up another meeting with the city's utilities manager, with the $3,500 bill for our new central heating and air unit in hand, explaining to him that this purchase "should" fix the issues with our high utility bills (according to their inspector) for the billing cycle of June to July. I advised him that "if" we received another bill which doubled again next year on the same billing cycle, my intent was to file a law suit against the city.
We never got another "large" bill that doubled as before.
However I still find it VERY hard to comprehend "why" this increase ONLY seemed to happen during the billing cycle for the months of June to July. If the problem actually "had" solely been our central heating and air unit as was indicated, then the utility bill should have remained high through the month of August as well, considering that August is regarded as the hottest of the summer months here in eastern North Carolina.
Bottom line is... absolutely NOTHING in my opinion, has changed in the past 25 years regarding utility rates here in Wilson! And they will continue to stay this way indefinately until we can get out from under the current "contract" we're supposedly stuck in.
Way to go city leaders. My confidence just continues to grow in your abilities to help Wilsonians - NOT!

Thursday, April 29, 2010 at 6:01 PM G B said...

The Utility Bills are extremely high and has been running high for some time now. It's only me and my mother that lives here in an apartment. It makes no sense that two people have to pay $4 - $500.00 light bills and there are people paying more than that. What is the City of Wilson doing with the money? Where is it going other than their salary increase? If every household in Wilson refused to pay their electric bill for one month it would cripple the City of Wilson, but maybe they would get the message. The citizens are tired of these outrageous utility bills.

Thursday, April 29, 2010 at 9:23 PM John K said...

Well got my water and trash bill for 2 months in Nashville.It is 58.71 for both and 18.99 was for the trash pick up.So with my electric bill 98.00 and water/trash bill 58.71 that's pretty good.In Wilson my utility,trash and water bill went from 375 up to 600 dollar range.I wash and dry clothes everyday here.In Wilson I had clothes line and it was still high.I'm not worried about the bills no more and I get live in comfort a little.Nashville has alot of places for rent,sale and they are ready for anybody with high bills to move here.My new landlord told me,that alot of landlords hoping that people will move here.Because it is alot cheaper,but with little drive back and forth to work

Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at 12:13 AM Kayla said...

I live out near Gardners Elementary school and our electric bill doubled from 150 to 300 dollars a month. Even in March when we did not use any heat or air at all, our bill was still 250. I am a Barton College student, and I try to make it from week to week. Its ridiculous that our bills would double. There is no reason for it. People cannot afford to pay these high of rates. And I have friends that live in downtown Wilson whose bills did not increase at all. How is that possible when everyone elses did? How is that fair?

Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at 10:43 PM jim said...

the rates are too high and very unfair. they need competition that would force them to be fair to the customers. "if one don't another will"

Monday, April 26, 2010 at 8:18 PM Lori Jones said...

Evidently, Someone is not doing a good job. Rates are not being marketed or competed for. Even Rlaiegh has cheaper rates than Wilson and Rocky Mount. Someone needs to review the purchase ethics of the utilities. Is someone benefiting from our high rates.

Monday, April 26, 2010 at 8:12 AM David R.R. said...

Get this, we moved to the Gardner's School area and our utility bills totalled $140.00 for the month. If you can find a house out here, take it! Our last bill with Wilson Energy was over $1,000.00 and we did not even live there. No lights or water or gas was on in the house. Mayor Bruce Rose, you are not being harshly treated. We are. Repent at Church tomorrow and then resign from you position as Mayor and on the Board of the Electricities on Monday. Please, it would be great of you to do so. Also, for the Wilson Energy Board, please sell (or give) OUR part of the Electricities to Progress Energy. It would be for our cities own good!
Thank you.

Saturday, April 24, 2010 at 12:47 PM VANESSA JONES said...

THE RATES ARE TO HIGH AND UNFAIR LAST MONTH I HAD A BILL FOR $1,300.00. WHICH LEADS TO BELIEVE SOMEONE IS JUST MAKING UP RATES TO CHARGE WHAT EVER THEY WANT.

Friday, April 23, 2010 at 7:21 AM r&l said...

Fair? NO WAY!!! Way too high? YES!!! First of all we are up to our ears in taxes let alone paying so much for energy bills. Wilson Energy...take a look at what all these people are saying. You obviously do not have happy customers.

Thursday, April 22, 2010 at 9:35 AM dg said...

yes they are way too high..and what about the $10 late charge..everyone does not get paid the same and the pay date normally falls after your due date of the bill..my God get it together City of Wilson!!!

Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at 12:55 PM Charley M said...

I am a relatively young home owner and am very fortunate for living the American dream at a young age. I first bought my house back in 2005 with great hope of the future that lies ahead. However, that dream that I turned in to reality I quickly realized the burden of HIGH utility bills. I first addressed my concerns to Wilson Utilities a few months after my purchase, only to get feedback such as "Wilson's utility rates are very competitive with surrounding counties and cities". I did not feel that they were telling the truth so I started to ask around and do a little research. Five years in to home ownership and the rates have continued to get worse. A person should not have to pay a utility bill that meets or exceeds their mortgage. This should be a crime. There are many rumors and speculations as to why rates are this high and I would love for the truth to become uncovered. I know the debt the city holds but when that contract was signed, who really benefited? It certainly was not Wilsonians. The simple fact is that the rates are too high and many people cannot continue to go on like this. I would love to help others out and probably would if my bill itself was not too high. I feel nothing will be done about this and there is no hope. I only wish that when I get old and pass on that my children and hopefully grandchildren will not have to live each month wondering just how high there bill is going to be!
If you truely want to attrack more people to Wilson whether it be people or business's its not by offering cable and broadband. Lower the utility rates and improve the quality of life and in return Wilson will florish and grow in to a great city.
Best Regards,
Charley M

Tuesday, April 20, 2010 at 9:33 AM T. Page said...

I think the rates for everyone's utility bill is too high and ridiculous. I think that they should go back to the original way of reading the utility bills because whose to say that they are right when it comes to reading them now, especially due to the fact that some of those reading the meters don't even get out of the truck and go up to the house to read them, they set in their trucks and use a machine to read the meters, so as a paying customer whose to say that the charge is correct. Also this billing cycle that is used to charge individuals for their utility bills is wrong and does not make any sense at all. Why are you all going to charge everyone for extra days when there's not but thirty, thirty-one or twenty eight days in the month. This needs to be explained in my opinion and needs to be corrected. Customers should be charged for the amount of days that's in the month and not add extra days onto everyone's utility bill. Where is all the money going for those extra days that is added to everyone's bill? I think we need to have another company running our utilities instead of the one that the city has now.

Saturday, April 17, 2010 at 7:09 PM yup I said it......... said...

The Mayor, City Manager, and council members. You are NOT working for the good of the citizens of wilson county. Someone's palms are being greased at the citizens expense. You people sit behind those desk and you act like your concerned and your listening to the citizens cries and despair, you hear the cries from people about this extremely high light bills. You memebers of the city council do nothing but have a stupid idiotic look on your faces like were talking in tongue. You know exactly the problem and you know exactly how to fix the problem. Yous suppose to have the citizens interest at hand instead your own hands are being consumed with greed. Oh and Mayor you should not even made a comment about the citizens being too hard on you and the city council, You guys signed up for the job, nobody promised you or the council a rose garden, if we don't have you guys to voice our concerns or anger who do we go too.

Friday, April 16, 2010 at 8:53 PM Cathy said...

Yes. The bills are too high. Everyone is suffering already with increased gas prices...which runs everything's prices up. Even when we try to conserve, cutting things off...it doesn't make much difference. Wilson is ripping everyone off. We all need electricity.So what do we do? Not buy groceries to pay these ridiculous electric bills?

Friday, April 16, 2010 at 5:04 PM jb said...

rb,I understand what you are saying.I have a condo that is vacant and the bill last month was $190. The heat is on 45 and the water heater is not on.The water bill was $30 and the sewer was higher than that.We are being extorted by Wilson Energy.This is legalized extorsion!!!!!!

Friday, April 16, 2010 at 1:20 PM rb said...

Well lets see, I live in a single wide trailer out near silverlake, I wasnt even stayin in the trailer last billing cycle, heat was set on 50, everything unplug except the fridge, bill was $170.00, the bill i just got this week was $86.00 and I wasnt there at all

Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at 9:27 AM said...

its out rageous

Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at 11:00 PM does anyone know said...

what are those big huge power poles for off bloomery and packhouse road? seriously with poles like that my freakin power better never go out! thats why our bills are so high!

Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at 10:02 AM deeBabt said...

Rates are too high people cannot afford to pay these high price lightbill.

Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at 9:19 PM said...

Turning a person's utilities off because they owe $40.00 is RIDICULOUS!! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE?

Monday, April 12, 2010 at 5:39 PM Pat said...

The utility bills have been to high, but I cannot believe someone has not mentioned that our City Manager & City Council approved a 5% increase in utility rates to balance the budget for 2009-2010. Right after that the utility company approved a 5% increase. That was a 10% increase but no one has mentioned that additional 5% to get money in the city's budget, when they could have sent their budgets back and had the budgets reduced. So when they tell the public how they are trying to help they need to be reminded that they put a 5% increase on the citizens of Wilson themselves.

Monday, April 12, 2010 at 2:25 PM Wilson Resident said...

I am pretty upset at Wilson Energy.. They cut our power off because I owed them 40 dollars -- they did this an ENTIRE week before the cutoff date... they turned my power off at 4:30 on a FRIDAY! So I had to go a whole weekend without power because I couldn't get to their office in time. Are they are just trying to get the $50 reconnection fees?

Monday, April 12, 2010 at 10:27 AM John K said...

Moved to Nashville,now my first light bill was 97.67 and it was for 28 days.Last light bill was Wilson and it was 589.78 for 31 days.Bye Wilson,I rather pay for gas back to forth to work.Save more money like that

Saturday, April 10, 2010 at 7:04 PM Gary G. said...

Check the gas portion of your utility bill!! During the cold billing cycle from 12-15-09 through 01-21 10, 37 days, Wilson Energy says we used 48 CCF of gas at a cost of 75.33, an average of 2.03 per day. The very next cold billing cycle , from 1-21-10 through 02-19-10, 29 days, when the weather was relatively the same and our thermostat was exactly the same, Wilson Energy says we used 225 ccf of gas at a cost of 325.96, an average of 11.24 per day. Now it gets interesting, the next billing cycle, 02-19-10 through 03-19 10, 28 days, Wilson Energy says we used 35 ccf of gas at a cost of 56.92, back to an average of 2.03 per day. How can that be? Are they reading our meters each billing cycle or could they be estimating every other month? One thing is for sure, there is no way our daily consumption of gas could increase to 11.24 per day between two billing cycles of 2.03 per day. Think about it and check that gas usage
Wilson Energy is charging you for on your utility bill. Good luck to us all!!

Friday, April 09, 2010 at 12:01 PM Anonymous said...

I have a small 3 bedroom house in Wilson. Up until December of 2009; my utility bill was fair (between $160 and $180.00 per month). We work long hours so we are not home much and have kept our energy consumption pretty much the same as it's been in the past and all of a sudden we were hit with a $482.00 bill for one month. I've spoken to different utility employees and they have jokingly said we had to pay for the consumption of the Christmas lights downtown and we have a huge debt to pay to a power plant. I don't think it's fair to more than double a utility bill especially if the consumption is similar every single month. Times are hard right now and my pregnant wife and I both work just to barely keep the bills paid.

Thursday, April 08, 2010 at 10:27 AM Susan said...

$84.00 which was for lights only (I heat with LP). Thank goodness I live in Wayne County!!

Wednesday, April 07, 2010 at 10:23 AM Sue Metta said...

my utility rates can fund a mortgage on another house. They are way too high ! we need relief ~!

Tuesday, April 06, 2010 at 11:26 AM Bethnie said...

I think the rates are extremely high! For the month of December my bill was over $600, and thats on discounted electric!

Tuesday, April 06, 2010 at 1:27 AM Chrissy said...

TOO HIGH!!!

Monday, April 05, 2010 at 3:09 AM herbert t. lane said...

yes i think the rates are too high and they hurt all people.this is also true of the tax we pay.

Sunday, April 04, 2010 at 8:44 AM Person said...

I agree with "upset", we shouldnt blame other companies of Wilson. They do not have anything to do with it. It is the overall companies incharge of this energy situation. Besides, this past month, the bill went down about $200. Still high but at least able to afford it. It doesnt make it right but at least something is happening... if it aint nothing but waking us up and getting us to cut down on electricity use. Just be thankful you have the ability to live somewhere that your able to express your thoughts and feelings.

Sunday, April 04, 2010 at 10:29 PM Upset said...

Don't put the blame on the people who works for Greenlight and Wilson Energy, they are just making a living for themselves. Remember they too have to pay their high cost utilities bills. Put the blame where it belongs. Put the blame on those who we elected to take on such a huge cost, and burden for the city. Yes, blame city council, and the mayor. Remember they have the final say so for Wilson, not the little people trying to make it.

Saturday, April 03, 2010 at 12:22 PM Ben Franklin said...

Our utility rates are too high. 40 cents per dollar spent on utilities is too high. Alternatives must be sought. Recent state and federal legislature have demonstrated no obvious solutions to our predicament. It must be the time to novel mechanisms to reduce this cost.

Saturday, April 03, 2010 at 12:24 AM Artis said...

I thank God! I can pay mine, I feel for the people Who Can't!!!!!!!!

Thursday, April 01, 2010 at 2:22 PM mad in the club said...

Last three bills.$1078,928,678. Keep the heat set at 68. 2200 sq ft.

Thursday, April 01, 2010 at 9:40 AM boycott greenlight? said...

Just read some more of the commments...maybe we should completely boycott Greenlight. Time Warner has been forced to do better, maybe I will give them a second chance! (We already cancelled phone/cable with them to save money.) Wilson Energy gets enough of my money involuntarily, I can at least stop giving them more!

Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at 8:34 AM TeacherKim said...

The last three months....$630, $550, and $300. WOW. Talk about sticker shock. I think everyone in Wilson has tightened their belts about as far as they can go on consumption. My parents are on a fixed income and from last year to this, their rates in Jan. and Feb. almost doubled. I also have to think that utility rates make Wilson VERY unnattractive to businesses who might open here (and bring much needed jobs) and I also wonder if that is not a factor in all the business closings we have seen (Home Depot, etc.) I am waiting anxiously for a response from our leadership! We can't justify higher rates by building more homes/expanding the grid if our economy slows and prevents jobs from coming/staying; people won't be able to afford the housing or will move to non-electricities towns.

Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at 8:23 AM JIM ARNOLD said...

THE BILL IS WAY TOO HIGH. I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW IT COULD GO UP SO HIGH IN JAN. FOR DEC. THE ONLY THING I CAN THINK OF IS WE ARE PAYING FOR WILSON'S STREET CHRISTMAS DECO. I PERSONALLY DO NOT LIVE IN WILSON CITY AND DON'T VISIT IT. SO WHY SHOULD MY BILL BE SO HIGH?
WHAT WE NEED IS GET COMPETITION. PROGRESSIVE IS LOOKING GOOD. ANY PLACE OTHER THAN WILSON COUNTY LOOKS GOOD.

Monday, March 29, 2010 at 5:39 PM said...

It's outrageous, when you light bill is more than your mortgage, rent or car note.

Monday, March 29, 2010 at 4:11 PM sandra said...

its horrible , mine was738.00 & it was high all last summer , live in a 1000sq ft house.folks will be moving out of wilson because of these high utility bills & taxes & on & on .some of our wealthy counties aren't even in our range . its sad its come to this !!

Monday, March 29, 2010 at 2:48 PM Mad, broke n ready to move said...

I think we all should get together and protest. Maybe we will get heard then. Seems like City of Wilson has borrowed money from somewhere and are trying to pay someone back.....and adding it in on all of us. Not FAIR whatever the reason is, I don't care if the workers for the city have to pay the same utility bill or NOT! Something has to be done or progress energy here i come! Period! Sad you have to move because of the Utility bill! Me and my hubby live in a 2 bedroom townhouse.....and we paid $365.00 last month!

Sunday, March 28, 2010 at 3:24 PM billiejeanbunn said...

i belive there is going on wrong we have to live scared to lose our lights because it so high 400-to 641 there is something wrong you know something needs to be done now not nextyear

Sunday, March 28, 2010 at 2:07 PM said...

Are you aware that the city charges an additional $8.60 to everyone's light bill? It's added into the kilowatt rate. What's so strange about this, I have not found anyone who is aware of the additional charge. After reading the News and Observer article a month ago about the high rate Wilson was paying compared to Rocky Mount, I did some research. My bill was 14.7 cents per kilowatt, according to the article in the paper Wilson's rate was 14.3 per kilowatt. I called the city and was advised that everyone is charged $8.60 in the event they have to work on the line and this was added to the kilowatt rate. Why is this charge hidden into the kilowatt rate rather than listed so everyone knows exactly what they are paying for? It seems to me the city is being deceitful to their customers. Based on the number of homes Wilson Energy serves, this is an additional 3 million dollars. I also understand that the rate is higher($15.60) for businesses and workshops.

Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 6:38 PM Angela L said...

I live in a 2 bedroom apt; and my light bill for last month was over $700.00 that's more than my rent. It's upsurd that the light bill can be that high and not able to make payment arrangements.

Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 6:01 PM THADDEUS WASHINGTON said...

MY RATES ARE DEFINITELY HIGH AVERAGING 400-650 PER MONTH

Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 8:41 AM cbattle said...

my light bill was once again outrageous for 24 days it was $328. I am so sick of this.

Friday, March 26, 2010 at 2:31 PM Struggling - AGAIN said...

We received our utility bill yesterday for 29 days this time. It is ONLY $35.00 LESS than the last one, WHICH WAS JUST PAID LATE. We do not want to hear anything else about an ENERGY AUDIT. As I said before we can do nothing else to make our home more energy efficient. We as most residents are have been smart enough to do that already in order to stay warm or cool. Our house is similar to a cave now, residents cannot stress that enough. The majority of us read and know what energy efficient is and how to do it. For us, we went in debt and replaced, renewed, re-insulated, year after year. We have had our heat down to 62 degrees since the first shocker of a utility bill. We are struggling to deal with this and it is quite obvious to us and I am sure the other citizens that continue to try to let our voices be heard, that any committee or task force is simply to pacify the residents of this county and give us the false sense of security that something is being done or that our voices are heard. In other words a "smoke screen". The majority of citizens of this city/county are not only well read and well educated, but have a lot of common sense . One of the problems now is the issue has received so much publicity the chances of selling and moving to a Progress Energy community are getting slimmer every single day. We are blessed, this is a great "home town" with good citizens and perhaps these council members are not to blame BUT they can find a solution that could be resolved quickly and easily. The Stantonsburg/Saratog communities solved their problem a few years ago. PLEASE people nearing retirement and working as hard and harder than ever and STILL struggling with no end in sight. God is a good God and he can help our leaders reach a solution, they need to pray and seek Godly council for a way to help us quickly. I feel for those who are unable to work, handicapped, fixed income elderly residents. It is a dire situation for working citizens, for them I am sure it is even more critical. Please, please help us.

Friday, March 26, 2010 at 1:35 PM mary said...

Yes it really was light bill higher than rent, trying paying $628,trying to heat a house.

Friday, March 26, 2010 at 12:42 PM Family of Four said...

I am amazed at our utility bills. The winter months have made it extremely hard for our family to meet our financial obligations. We have cut back and back. The sad thing is we heat with propane. I have noticed our consumption has stayed the same, but the problem lies in inconsistent billing days, too. It seems like it would make more sense if we knew what to expect each month instead of riding this roller coaster. I know we use more electricity than others and can understand a 250.00 bill, but 465.00 is outrageous....especially when I purchased 500.00 in propane and the thermostat is sitting on a cool 62. Now, warmer weather has approached, but my bill has not gone down by much. I feel terrible knowing my dad is at his home alone and paying more than me....and for others who are single parents, disabled, etc. Why should we be uncomfortable living in our homes?

Friday, March 26, 2010 at 8:43 AM eigger said...

for the money we pay in utilites we have the worse streets i ever seen. the taxes we pay on properties and the new dog tax can make up the bill that the city owe in utilities. instead this money goes to the city consel city managers and to police cheif and the sherrif. this to me is money that could help pay the bill that the city owe. this is why our light bills are so high.

Friday, March 26, 2010 at 8:21 AM said...

I think that with all the high light bills, the debt to Electricities should be about paid off. Then they say in today's paper, that government funding highly unlikly. What makes you think that if we vote these crooks out we won't get a new set of crooks to deal with. They have put the people at the bottom of the list.

Thursday, March 25, 2010 at 5:13 PM Me said...

They want the census to show 50,000, it won't be 50,000 next year if they don't do something about the utilities.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010 at 4:02 PM CRAZY said...

When is wilson gone get enough from us my utility bill keeps going up and up every month $600 $700 and now $780 PLEASE HELP HELP SOMEBODY HELP

Tuesday, March 23, 2010 at 6:38 PM Concerned Citizen said...

To: John
Since you are so happy with the electric bills, why don't you assist the rest of us with ours. Maybe you work for the city and you get some sort of discount...lol. Grow up and stop acting like a child. These bills are outrageous and you know it just like the rest of us. Maybe if the City were doing their job we wouldn't be in this situation now would we? I use to think Wilson was a great place to live and affordable but since these no good council members and this no good Mayor has been in office, Wilson has really sufferred. It is a very sad situation, yet you have no sympathy. You should consider going to church because it is obvious you need GOD in your life!!!!

Tuesday, March 23, 2010 at 2:44 PM jstar said...

I can no longer afford to live in my home. Guess I will order food from Zanzibar. I'm just going to move from Wilson to a place with progress energy for an electric company. Progress Energy will never give you up, Progress Energy will never let you down, Progrss Energy will never run around and desert you.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010 at 10:22 AM Adam C said...

Utility bill in WIlson is outrageous. Electric portion alone was over $250 and it was still ice cold in the house. I'm afraid to adjust the thermostat to a comfortable level because I would need to get a second job to pay the bill. Surely electricity isn't this expensive in Wilson county. I moved from Wayne county just this year. Why the huge gap in costs??? Answer me that Wilson County.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010 at 4:33 AM To Love It said...

My light bills have been over the top. My husband is on disability, I'm unemployed and don't have enough money for him to get his meds as he should, much less insurance. Since you LOVE YOUR LIGHT BILL SO MUCH, HOW ABOUT PAYING MINE??? No, I thought not.

Monday, March 22, 2010 at 6:47 PM Ms Atkinson said...

My utility bill has been outrages for the 3 months,R E A L L Y!!!!

Monday, March 22, 2010 at 5:58 PM enough said.... said...

why is when you go to sociual service and ask for help with your light bill, the first thing your asked is WHAT IS YOUR CRISIS? duh what planet are you on< do you not know wilson is in a crisis with this light bill situation. Needless to say I didn't qualify why should I be surprised. I was told because I didn't use my outside unit to heat with, instead I used kerosene, I didn't qualify for the program! Why does the not surprise me. I hope the NAACP stays on this and comes up with a resoultion because the mayor and the council are not working for us the citizens. Then why have city council meetings if our voice holds no weight.

Monday, March 22, 2010 at 5:49 PM wilsonite said...

TOO HIGH is an understatement! Our house is vacant and there is nothing plugged in except for the refrigerator and water heater, but the bills are still $200-$300 each month. For a vacant house! Unreal and extremely bad for the city's sustaintability.

Monday, March 22, 2010 at 3:46 PM east wilson said...

i have not used my dishwasher, i wash clothes in cold water, i've heated with fireplace only, work full time during the day, night school full-time at night, travel ball every weekend with my kids, but have been paying triple in the last two years of what i used to pay for the house that i have lived in for over a decade. this is crazy. i'm looking for a house now on a different electric company.

Monday, March 22, 2010 at 2:09 PM teacher/coach said...

My husband and I both work roughly 8-10 hours 5 days a week. We live in a 1 bedroom, change our filter regularly/consistently, leave our temp. between 62-65 and our bill was $201 last month. How is that possible since we paid more last month for not even being home!?! There needs to be something done.

Saturday, March 20, 2010 at 7:41 AM Tammy Smith said...

My electric bill for the past two months has been insane! Last month it was over $280. the prior month over $300. and I live "alone". I have made no changes what so ever in my usuage. These are the highest bills I have ever had since residing in Wilson since 1988.

Saturday, March 20, 2010 at 10:41 PM Used it, paid 4 it. said...

Our house stays @ 60 degrees. 2000, square feet, 1 unit our total UTILITY BILL high-$425/$365 the next month. At my house we are fortunate to know what consumption means. Yes we were chilly. We wore more clothes. In the summer we wear much less and have fans to offset the heat.

Thursday, March 18, 2010 at 1:05 PM Mike B said...

rates have increased to the point that we are actually thinking about moving out of wilson. the rates for surrounding counties are much lower than here. in the last 12 months our electric bills have steadily increased, and as a family of four, we cant cut back our usage no more than we have already done to try and manage the increases.
maybe wilson has decided to squeeze everything it can out of its citizens and taxpayers. i believe its time to stand up and say enough is enough.

Thursday, March 18, 2010 at 9:20 AM Fed Up on Grove St. said...

We purchased our home in 2007, and this MONTH'S utility bill is the highest PER DAY since we moved in. That is after installing an energy-efficient furnace, adding attic insulation, replacing outside doors and storm doors, and excessive caulking and weatherstripping! Do they think we're stupid? Usually our bills are for a 29-34-day billing cycle. This month, the bill seems to be low, BUT it's for just 23 days. So, when we calculate the cost per day, our service from Jan. 9 to Feb. 4 is higher than it's ever been. We believe that the definition of "lying" is "an intent to deceive," so how should we perceive those responsible at Wilson Energy? If these same services had been provided by Progress Energy, they would be approximately 57% less than what we have been charged by Wilson Energy for the past two months. Let's all move and take our business to Progress Energy!

Thursday, March 18, 2010 at 9:28 PM Marnetta Yelverton said...

My light bill have been to high for the last 2-3 months. I just paid 305.00 last month for 35days and i now have a bill due on 3-16 or 302.00(33days). Yes, my bill is almost double. I usually pay around 180.00-190.00 Please help, because i can't afford this bill. I am on disability and my light is almost the same as my rent per month.(375.00). I do not think that these light bills are fair toward the community of Wilson. Thank You for allowing me to make a comment and May God Bless us all.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 6:01 PM rose said...

since my meter was replaced by the new meter (aug. 08?) my bill has been double of what it had been for the last 10 years. my central heat/air has been out since november, and my bill has been 2.5 times higher since nov. and i've been heating with my fireplace.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 5:23 PM avoid said...

This is the worst area to live do business with do not move to this area or Rocky Mt. Utility bills are unreal. Town leaders are crooks. Utility commission needs boot.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 4:19 PM terry sauls said...

Yes the Electric rates are too high.i thank we need to vote out every city council that's in office and vote out the mayor of wilson i thank it is time for a BIG CHANGE and we are not going to do that until we get all the CROOKS out of office if we want something new we got to do something new starting with the city council and mayor next election we need to VOTE ALL OF THEM OUT!! and VOTE in all new city council and mayor
WE NEED A CHANGE!!!!! WE NEED THIS CHANGS!!!!!!
IT'S IS TIME FOR A CHANGE!!!!! IT'S TIME FOR THIS CHANGE!!!!!! SO NEXT ELECTION LET'S MAKE THIS CHANGE!!!!!!!! LET'S VOTE THE CROOKS OUT WHY!!!!!!!!!! BECAUSE WE CAN!!!!!! WE CAN!!!!! WE CAN!!!! AND WE MUST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 10:46 PM Summer said...

Yes, our light bills are too high and it is time for all people of Wilson County to stand up together and be counted!

Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at 7:04 PM UNSATISFIED said...

I GOT MY LIGHT BILL FOR THIS MONTH AND ITS $100.00 MORE THAN LAST MONTH. NO ONE IS AT HOME ALL DAY I'M WORKING AND THE KIDS ARE AT SCHOOL. THEY(THE KIDS) HAVE EVEN NOTICED HOW HIGH THE UTILITY BILL IS THEY SHOULD NOT BE WORRIED, BUT THEY ARE. I'M WORRIED BECAUSE THIS IS A DISGRACE TO THE CITY I'M A SINGLE PARENT AND I DON'T MAKE AS MUCH AS THE PEOPLE ON THE WEST SIDE OF TOWN AND MY HOUSE ISN'T A LARGE AS THEIRS SO WHY IS MY LIGHT BILL MORE THAN THEIRS IT'S HURTING THE WHOLE COMMUNITY AND UNFAIR TO THE ELDERLY HOW ARE THEY GOING TO SURVIVE OUT HERE? THEN WHEN YOU GO ASK FOR HELP THEY WANT TO SEND YOU TO THE SALVATION ARMY. THEY CAN'T HELP THE ENTIRE CITY SO WHO WILL. I'M LEAVING WILSON AS A RESULT IN THIS MATTER. I FEEL THAT THIS IS TO STEEP FOR ME TO HANDLE ALONG WITH PAYING RENT,CABLE,PHONE,BUYING FOOD AND TOLITRIES FOR MY HOME I COULD HAVE TAKEN THAT EXTRA $250.00 I NEED ON THE UTILITY BILL AND BOUGHT FOOD,CLOTHES FOR MY KIDS AND GAS FOR ME TO GET TO WORK BUT INSTEAD I HAVE TO PAY A UTILITY BILL WHICH WAS $550.00 THIS MONTH. THIS IS ONE RIPOFF TOWN...........

Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at 4:27 PM food or utillities said...

We have found our family having to choose between food or lights and heat this winter, Thank God for the charity of others that have given us food. We have no phone, no cable and we pay more for utillities than our house payment. We take the kids to the library to use the computers for internet to do homework. I was laid off 5 months ago, my husband makes a good living in any other state but here with the utillity costs. We love it here, but have made the hard choice to leave next spring when our oldest graduates from high school. We have paid in 4 months here exactlly what we paid for 1 full year of utillities in texas, for a smaller house here. No wonder the city can bring in new business or sell the renovation houses, they do the research and don't want anything to do with a dying town!

Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at 9:54 PM Carl Jackson said...

Yes, the electric bills in Wilson are to high my bill jumped 150 in one month an d i know for a fact im using less energy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 8:34 PM kim and randy said...

We just recently moved into a place out by Holdens crossroads nice doublewide .Our rent is 600.oo a month .for our first month we were barley inthe place werent cooking and didnt even have a washer or dryer and our first light bill was almost $4oo for only 16 days .So we immediatly called the light co.or answeres there response was that there was something was pulling alot current so we presumed to contact our landlord he got a electrician which costed over $400 for them to tell us nothing was wrong again our bills are piling up another close to $900 and another $800 so went up to the light co. and expressed we are doing everything we are supossed to keeping the hear on 68 all the tips they have givn us well there only response is to direct people to the salvation army .Why did it come to there resposability to take of the city of wilson responsability again taken from the poor to make the rich richer.You have seen the people up there its a crisis people are sitting inthe dark They have to pure lock the door where people are in such desperation for help sad and people are still knocking What has this come to If we dont stand up we will all be in the dark What bout our children what bout people on fixed incomes how will they eat what has the world come to Somebodt please come help us soon.......................

Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 9:35 PM City of Wilson is out of CONTROL! said...

Ican't believe what is going on,We have new windows,new insulation and siding,yet last summer our light bill was over 500.00 ,#months in a row,we keep our heat set on 65 during the day and on 68 the rest of the time,and we heat and cook withe propane gas and our light bill is still high.I don't get it,they are also sending people to the Salvation Army when they go up there about thier bill,it is not thier responsibilty to keep up the city of wilson!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Friday, March 12, 2010 at 7:34 PM Juanita Joyner said...

My light bil is high considering that I heat with propane gas,and cook with propane gas ,and my daughters' lights have been flickering off and on in parts of her house. Mine have also done this once,just enough to cut my computer off &clocks had to be reset.

Friday, March 12, 2010 at 7:12 PM 27896 said...

To 27893 - I got a bill for $751. What that tells me is I'm getting ripped OFF!!

Friday, March 12, 2010 at 6:02 PM 27893 said...

I know for a fact that people that live in the 27896 areas light bills are cheaper than the ones that zip code is 27893. What does that tell you?

Friday, March 12, 2010 at 4:33 PM Struggling said...

Our house is built like a cave. We have had replacement windows put in, every possible area outside crevice is sealed, insulation packed in the attic. We have always been proud of having a very reasonable utility bill UNTIL the past 2. This is outrageous. Nothing has changed for us in the 32 years we have lived here except UPGRADES and ENERGY EFFICIENT APPLIANCES, HEAT, AIR, ETC. We have had 38 day utility bills before, we have had cold weather before but NEVER EVER have had a $500.00 lightbill before. This one we have now due on March 10 AND IS LATE because my husband is laid off and we have not had the money was $330.00 PLUS for 27 days. We have never had a $300.00 light bill until this winter. Yes it was cold, but when we were not up and about doing something, we were wrapped up in a blanket and had the thermostat at 65. Yes we know we are being ripped off. This home and has been for us for 35 years but we are seriously considering selling and moving to another county with more tolerable utilities. If everyone could get a home generator and generate their own power that would the bomb. Keep giving the money away to draw industry here and then everyone even the new industry gets the axe. Give it up and find a solution. People over 55 years of age, STILL STRUGGLING to pay taxes, utilities and buy food and can't get a job. JEEZ! We are not idiots, hicks or rednecks. We have kept this county and city on its feet and really hate to move from our home. But nostalgia has nothing to do with survival anymore.

Friday, March 12, 2010 at 1:02 PM Suzanne McAllister said...

To Common Sense. Upstairs thermstat at 58. Down stairs at 65. New 14 seer gas pack with new ducts. New roof. Weatherstripping. Caulking. Stuffed cracks. Would have done more weatherization if I qualified for assistance. And yes, adjusted fridge temperature. I did apply some common sense, but I didn't hide my name behind it. I've tightened my budget. City of Wilson, cut out waste, cut the budget, admit what you can't afford and stop making money off folks and businesses just trying to survive this day and time. I can admit my shortcomings, why can the city council? To common sense, it's always helpful to add ideas on how to conserve energy, but if people with good intentions would stop being so condenscending to the rest of us, as the city council always is, positive imput well be received and welcomed.

Friday, March 12, 2010 at 11:04 AM VET G said...

MY LIGHT BILL WAS 4 TIMES MORE THIS MONTH THAN MY NORMAL BILL. I HAVE NEVER HAD A LIGHT BILL LIKE THIS MY 31 YEARS OL LIVING! I HAVE 4 KIDZ BY MYSELF AND I CANNOT PAY THIS BILL. I AM WITH PROGRESS ENERGY!

Thursday, March 11, 2010 at 7:57 PM common sense said...

Yes I was shocked when I got a $597.00 light bill. However, I immediately compared bills and guess what, I used double the kw I had used the month before! How many of you turned the temp DOWN to make up for the unusually cold temps. I didn't and got exactly what I was expecting. How many of you are going to turn the temp UP when it gets hot. Probably none of you and you will be complaining then. How many of you have adjusted the temp on your fridge? There are many things we can do to help ourselves. We all need to just use a little COMMON SENSE. AND NO I DONT WORK FOR THE CITY, I AM CURRENTLY UNEMPLOYED.

Thursday, March 11, 2010 at 12:34 PM Mike said...

Yes the Electric rates are too high. One can only imagine how things will be in just five years. We could possibly see 19 cents per KWH or higher. Picture a city with three quarters of the businesses gone and half the home owners. Think it can’t happen? I live in Wilson but work in Wake County. Many of my friends who live elsewhere are amazed how out of control the city of Wilson is. It is bad enough the rates are this high but why didn’t our local city officials see this coming? Wake up city officials. If you let this monopoly continue Wilson may soon become a ghost town.

Thursday, March 11, 2010 at 7:34 AM Denise Burgess said...

We moved from Wake County to Wilson County due to a job transfer. We were in shock when our electric bill arrived in the mail. We've received bills for over $400.00 for one month. I will never understand why Wilson charges the residents so much more, and I mean MUCH higher than Wake County. And higher than any other Counties, which we've heard from by other residents who have moved here. I've heard a lot of the residents talking about moving back out of Wilson in order to get away from these ridiculous charges. It's devastating when your electric bill is higher than your rent or house payment. How do you expect these families here to pay rent, electric bills, provide food, transportation, & other household bills? I am so FRUSTRATED & DISAPPOINTED in the City of Wilson, and can't stand the fact we had to move here. We need other Electric Business' to step in so we can decide on who we would want to do business with.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 8:52 PM Join Today! said...

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&gid=263898601633
Join the facebook group and help out in any way you can. You will learn a lot of things about our rates on the group page & discussion tab. Together we can make a difference, but you will not solve anything by complaining on Wilson Times!

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 8:36 PM more businesses closing said...

I also wonder if that is why Smurfitt Stone is closing its manufacturing facility because of the high electric rates. If nothing is done to counteract these high electric bills, more businesses will be closing up shop. Does the mayor or city council even care? Why aren't the mayor and city council speaking publicly about what they are trying to do to lower these bills? I am convinced that the mayor has a vested interested in Electricities. Somebody is getting PAID BIG BUCKS.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 7:21 PM whatever said...

Listen "WEARING SHORTS" You obviously don't get it!!!! These people are all talking about the fact they are going about their day to day actvities as they have been doing for YEARS!!!!! and now their bill is OUTRAGEOUS!!!!!!

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 5:49 PM Amanda C said...

Yes! Mine was too high, and for just 2 people in an Apt......$346.00!!!! :O Currently looking to buy a house NOT in Wilson!!!

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 4:46 PM Dews mom said...

my light bill was 475.00 and the previous month it was 235.00 and my sons was 415.00 and the previous month it was 135.00 RIDICULOUS !!! Hardly any electricity for either of us during the day...Yes I realize it was cold but the light bill was for about 38 days and this month it was still higher but then the days were 27...is there no consistency in this ...wonder how many lights were cut off last month and this month..Its not fair that we have to pay for mistakes that were made years ago

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 2:16 PM BigKev1604 said...

People get ready the STORM IS HERE. If all of you have noticed every week another business is going away or closing altogther. Now you would think that the members of city council should be trying to do something about the rates we pay for electricy but do you hear anything about that NOOOO! It's obvious that someone is getting paid to keep these rates this high. How can we attract new businesses to come here with this nonsense going on. This city is starting to look like a GHOST TOWN,so i say again THE STORM IS ALREADY HERE!

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 12:21 PM reggie said...

How in the world is my first electric bill over $500 and no ones home hardly? it's just as much as the rent.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 9:27 AM ken said...

my bill was 606.00. it is time to vote these guys out. the mayor has interest on the electricites he serves.. it is a conflict of interest.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 9:36 PM Becky Rogers said...

Our was $587.00 and we are gone most of the day. This was the highest one we have ever had and have been here for 15 years.We are with Progress Energy and they just keep going up.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 9:01 PM What in the world said...

CITY OF WILSON......PUT THOSE NEW METERS BACK IN YOUR POCKET......AND GET THIS LIGHT BILL SITUATION BACK ON TRACK U HEARD ME.....HOW CAN Y'ALL SLEEP AT NIGHT.....BET YOUR LIGHT BILL ON THE UP AND UP.

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 8:45 PM wilson energy = HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE said...

.. i recently loved out my apartment adn for 10 days i was charged 110.00 dollars but my bill WAS 70-80 bucks for the entire MONTH!!! i mean really!!!

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 4:55 PM Lisa Williams said...

The utility bills are outrageous. I wonder what would happen if there was another utility company in the area. Wilson Energy would probably be forced to lower their prices. Most people I know in Wilson can't afford to pay a utility bill that is more than their rent or mortgage. It is also very very hard to get assistance from the agencies that are available that could help you pay your bill. (i.e. social services)

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 11:05 AM V. Smith said...

I say we all join the black out on March 18th 2010 no lights from 6am to 6pm. This is only if you do not need lights for any medical use. I lived in NY and we never had a light bill as high as the ones in Wilson.

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 12:45 AM Concerned and b r o k e said...

Who can live here in this hick town with the utility bills so high and then pay taxes, food, clothes, mortgage, rising gas prices and everything else? Just what are the people on the town council doing with our hard-earned money? I don't know, but it seems like they're not concerned over the pooor person---just getting what they want. Who agrees with me? I bet if everyone would boycott the Wilson Energy Company you'd soon see a change in the utility bills. I guess we'll have to dig wells, burn wood and use candles like our great-grandparents did,...... at least they didn't have a $500-$900 utility bill!

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 12:03 AM OMG said...

Wake up people! Wilson is a social experiment gone bad. Provide free daycare, food and whatever else to people that refuse to work and on top of that the people that are being laid off because buisnesses in Wilson cannot afford the electric rates. I cannot blame them for moving. This my good people is what's known as "Big Government". The city built Kidde Aerospace a nice new million dollar parking lot yet they do not have the money to pay down debt.We spend 24 million on fiber cable so people can switch from Time Warner? This debt to Elicticities can be so easily restructured, but our crooked politicians would loose ther seats and kick-backs from Electricities so you tell me what they would rather do. If this rape of the citizens continue your homes,jobs,schools and life in Wilson will be more of a nightmare then it already is. The perfect storm was a great comment. It is true. I prediect that the next election will find the same old idiots running this city, our property values worthless,tax and electric bills even higher and people still doing the exact same thing around here expecting a different outcome. You have already lost your way on this matter by stupidly claiming that it is a racial issue. No it's not! It's a crooked elected officals and a grab by them to control everything in your life. Doing a good job with that aren't they? If you think it is bad now...just wait, you aint seen nothing yet....

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 11:06 PM Wilson SKS said...

You had the chance to vote these crooks out of office and what did you do.... just like you always do in Wilson and voted for the same good ole boys that ruined this city to begin with. The perfect storm is brewing in Wilson. Business's are going to move to a place where they can afford to do buisness and more in Wilson will loose their jobs, all because of the crooks that run this town. If the people in this place are not smart enough to do anything about it, why sholud they change? We move out next week... thank god. Nothing will be done to lower or make your power bills fair, it is to good for the city to rob you this way then raise taxes again. Wide awake Wilson residents need to wake up. When we are gone from this horrible place, I will not sit back and laugh....I will sit back and cry for the people who cannot get out of Wilson.

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 10:30 PM Mel and Kev said...

Utility bill went from $350 to $749. Thanks City of Wilson for helping us during these difficult economic times!

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 9:30 PM seriously said...

it's sad that wilson has so much power that they can keep other energy companies from coming in. wilson residents need options. i bet if another energy company were allowed to come in wilson utilities would find a way to drop their prices with a little competition. as i type this i sit in my kitchen freezing waiting to go back outside where it's so much warmer. guess my family will be sleeping outside tonight!

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 4:51 PM C J said...

My electric bill went from $169.00 for the months of NOV, DEC and Jan. Jumped to $400.00 in Februray and in March $300.00 and now my lights are off. I do not have an heating system connected to my house nor do I own any space heaters. There is no way my bills should have jumped like this. The light company does this all the time and it's unfair to many. They have been cheating us for along long time.

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 2:40 PM said...

My utility bills are extremely to high. It's about as high as my mortgage payment. It's ridiculous. I am thinking about moving out of Wilson. When I lived in Stantonsburg it was never this high.

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 1:41 PM Sharon Johnson said...

My bill has been $1250 in the past two months and it has cause a hardship.I understand I must keep my family warm, but do you think this is a fair price for warmth? I do not feel it's fair to gain a profit off of me and others, just because we need to be warm. I really feel that Wilson has taken advantage of a bad situation. Why charge us so much just beacuse you can ?

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 10:54 AM Reply to chuck said...

I totally agree with you. I guess they want Wilson to have a total forced black out,because soon we're all going to have to sit in total darkness with no heat and cook outside on a grill.My bill hasnt been under $500.00 the past 4 months.I keep my heat on 60 and my lights out except for the room I'm in at the time.we tried everything and nothing works.

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 12:20 AM Todd Jenkins, R.N. said...

Our Mayor and board apparently do NOT care for our citizens. They believe that CARING is the Salvation Army's job. So the City jacks individual pieces of our utility bills anytime a project needs funding. The City does not care about us, nor our financial well-being. It provides expensive monoply services like power, water, and sewer for our miserable existence here.

Sunday, March 07, 2010 at 6:45 PM Soni said...

My offspring is renting an apartment in Wilson while he attends college. The 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bathrooms, tiny kitchen, small living room and dining area has a monthly power bill which is nearly twice what I pay in much bigger living quarters (more people) in the Washington D.C. area. What is going on in Wilson where the power company can overcharge and get away with it? Maybe the meter reader is reading the data incorrectly or the meters have a malfunction. This matter needs to be investigated.

Sunday, March 07, 2010 at 5:08 PM Denise said...

All this money they are getting from us and all the streets of wilson is full of pot wholes. At least they can put the money to good use to fix up roads. City of Wilson is ripping eveyone off.
$330.00 light bill and I havent been home all this month this is bull.

Sunday, March 07, 2010 at 5:00 PM Chilly House said...

Due to an extremely high light bill, I have set me heating unit on 65. This is extremely chilly for a one year old. Thanks a lot City of Wilson, for PRICE GOUGING.. Should I send you my child's doctor bills????

Sunday, March 07, 2010 at 10:09 AM cjwood said...

Action must be taken. We pay power bills for two houses as we have family we help as their income was drastically reduced due to work cutback. It was ok when it started; it is now way over what is reasonable and affordable. ALL of us are conservative and carefully monitor our consumption. We must petition the State Legislature to put us back under the watch of the Utilities Commission and have the DOJ investigate the ethical actions of the City Council serving on roles with Electrocities...

Saturday, March 06, 2010 at 6:19 PM Chuck Butell said...

Man! I am so glad I live in the Wide Awake City of Wilson. Let me tell you why!
My thermostat is set on 60 Degrees - Which means the interior of my home is 60 Degrees.
All the lights are cut of except whatever room I'm in at the time. It doesn't take long for your eyes to adjust to darkness.
I cut off my security dusk to dawn light. But I did load up my trusty old shotgun. You know just to be safe, what with all the darkness, thieves might think I'm not home.
Sweaters!! Wow, I found some I did not even remember I had. They look real swell over my flannel shirts.
But you know what? Even after doing all this which I thought might make Mayor Rose and Goings and the other council members so proud of me... My utilities went up 55%. Man what a great City!!!

Friday, March 05, 2010 at 8:17 PM Jennings said...

I will be glad when it's time to vote,so I can vote against every one of them.The city should be made to reimburse all of us who they have ripped off.

Friday, March 05, 2010 at 3:34 PM Cathy said...

I have been down to the power company the past two bills complaining. I was shocked at my december bill I jsut had a new heating and air unit put in in the summer and my bill was running about 170.oo on average and at christmas my bill went up to 385.00 when I went to the electric company they told me everyones was higher and that the month was longer. My delemia was that I already run my heat on 66 degrees all the time to conserve and that I was out of town and heat turned off for two weeks of the month. I didnt even put lights up outside for christmas to conserve. I have a hard time understanding how peoples power bills can be more than there house payments. While I was in line at the electric company I heard people talikng about having 700.00 to 1000.00 bills. What has this world come to? Why is black creek electric so much cheapre and they live at our back doors. My sister never pays as much as I do and she lives in black creek. We need someone to help the people in wilsons community who are struggling to just servive on a daily basis. I can also afford the bill but I am a single parent working tw jobs just to make ends meet. I am killing my self and my family to get it all paid.

Friday, March 05, 2010 at 11:16 AM Jeannette Bray said...

As you may have seen in this morning paper, I attended last night’s meeting of the NAACP. I was quoted in the paper and I wish my entire quote and been written as this is a MUCH bigger issue than my own utility bill and even utilities as a whole. This is a citizen’s issue not a black vs. white issue. Also, if you do the research, you will find an even bigger issue. There were over 75 people at this meeting and maybe 4 white people including myself. That was a disappointment. The meeting was wonderful and entirely on the issue at hand. I felt very welcomed there. It is great to vent and I have vented on this site under an unidentified name but venting is NOT going to get us anywhere. It feels good but we need action. We need to come together as a city. We need to have all 32 cities unified. If everyone who voted in the Presidential election would put the same energy and passion into this fight as they did in electing our President, it would be amazing what could happen. I challenge you to join this fight. It is not only for you but your children and grandchildren. Go to meetings, participate in the plans that you will continue to read in the paper. Join Facebook, “Tired of paying HIGH utilities in Eastern NC” and go onto the discussion board there and educate yourselves. Be part of the solution and not a continued victim. I hate just being a victim! To all of you that post things like, “stop whining or just move and bundle up”. You have the right to post your feelings but it is my hope that you too would look at the big picture. There is major suffering among us. My husband and I are able to pay our high utility bills but do we like it? No! Is it fair and just? No! Can everyone here afford this? No! Is our city going to continue to lose businesses and families? Yes! Are small industries going to research the rates and continue to go somewhere else? Yes, they have and they will! So, to those of you who make comments like I have mentioned above, just try and see the big picture? Develop empathy because it comes across that you folks don’t have any. To the Daily Times, thank you for continuing to keep us informed (they have been asked not to). Wilson is a great city and I am proud to live here but one thing is for sure, if things don’t change, it will not stay that way. Please everyone, fight for what is right. Flood our Representatives, newspapers, TV stations, and 60 minutes with emails/letters. Now, that is something you can easily do. Thank you.

Friday, March 05, 2010 at 9:07 AM said...

President Obama save us from the evil electricities.

Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 8:25 PM said...

GOVRMENT NEEDS TO CONTROL EVERYTHING, THEN THEY CAN TELL US WANT WE WANT.

Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 8:24 PM said...

Why can't the city just give everyone free electricity? We pay taxes for something !

Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 8:23 PM whiskeyman said...

I live in a 14x70 mobile home. I'm on the budget billing. I've had several usage surveys done to no good. Heat is on 58,water heater is on a 2hr per day timer,cut the outside light out,no dryer,cook with an electric skillet,all energy saver bulbs,well underpinned. Two yrs ago I received $377 back on settle up month. Last year I got $77. This year I'm getting nailed. Same house,same habit's same person,same everything but the utility bills continue upward.I exist on disability.According to the month of their GLICHE in the system and they read the meter after 36 or 38days I used 600 kwh in 6 extra days. I read the meter every day that I'm able to get out of the house and there is no consistency in readings,no matter if the weather is the identical to other days. No reason for the big difference. I think that Wilson energy can control the speed of the meters by their computerized system. That's the only logical explanation. Thank you

Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 4:28 PM Pat said...

Has anyone wondered WHY the utility company does NOT list the rate per killowatt hour on the monthly bill? Also, awhile back I remember the city installing new meters. I believe everyone got a "new meter". Are these meters the problem?
I live in the country.....I can not remember the last time I had a real person out here reading my meter. Of course, if these new meters are sending the data into the office, then there is no need for a real person to come out here. But I have to wonder.....are these meters calibrated properly?
If we can not get the rate per killowatt hour to come down, then we will continue paying higher and higher bills.

Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 10:50 AM Bill Kossmann said...

Yes, these utilities are way too high and sometimes unpredictable. I leave our thermostat on 62F, and last month and this month our monthly bill was near $500 for 2300 sq ft home in which 1/4 of the rooms vents are manually shut. Our business is only on 5 to 6 hours a week and latest bill was over $400.

Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 7:24 AM williams said...

Our utility bill was over $700 last month and is right at $600 this month. There is no way for people to survive in this economy when their own community is robbing them. People work hard for their money and to have to come home to a cold house because you can't afford to turn up your heat on a cold winter day is disgusting. But that is reality to most Wilson residents.

Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 6:39 AM said...

Regarding the bucket truck, how often are those big red trucks actually used as intended? Sell those to pay off the debt.

Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 12:14 AM attend NAACP meeting said...

Praying as many as possible will attend meeting sponsored by NAACP. The more people the better. Put our differences aside and let us work TOGETHER to get solutions to the problem.
Also to whiners: You must have the money to pay these high bills. Think about your fellow citizens and how they are struggling. We are thankful yet struggling.

Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 11:48 PM Whinee said...

To: Whiners
You are so pathetic by acting like we are not blessed with what we have. But why is every penny that we work for having to go and pay for electricity that is not even keeping us warm because we have to keep it so cold, yet the bill is still high. All we are asking is that we be able to pay the same amount for our electricity as other counties where the kwh rate is sooo much lower. If the city was as broke as they said they were they would not be buying new vehicles and renovating buildings to make them look like the Taj Mahal. People are struggling to pay their bills yet the new utilities building is full of flat screen tv's, plush furniture and perfectly landscaped lawns. Doesn't seem like a broke city to me.

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 5:51 PM Wilson Citizen said...

Dear City of Wilson, Just wondering where I can put my bed since its warmer than my own house up there. Must be nice to sit in a 72° office that I paid for. The citizens of Wilson have tightened our belts to conserve spending and COW should do the same thing! Quit wasting millions of dollars each year to support your bad habits!

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 5:22 PM REPLY TO THE FAMILY THAT MOVED TO BOONE NC said...

I KNOW WHAT YOU MEAN.WE HAVE FAMILY IN ASHEVILLE,WEST VA. AND NEBRASKA AND THEIR BILL IS NEVER EVEN A $100.00. A HIGH BILL FOR THEM IS $100.00.WILSON MAKES NO SENSE.GOOD LUCK IN BOONE. ITS A BEAUTIFUL PLACE.

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 4:40 PM concerened citizen said...

Also, how about employees of the city being told if they need anything to make sure that they use what money is in the budget - or they won't get any money for budget next year??? Even when they don't even really need what they are purchasing???

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 1:09 PM concerened citizen said...

Since the city bought a $ 700,000.00 bucket truck, how many times has it been used? The city know's - the one that they use at Fleming Stadium to change out lights?????

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 1:07 PM Ridiculous comment said...

Who would have their utilities cut off in the winter? Let's use common sense please!!!!

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 10:49 AM said...

I just moved to Boone, NC which is having the worse winter weather in more than 30 years. I was comparing the electric bill here to mine in Wilson. The bill here is never more than $50.... in Wilson I couldn't even get it less than $150. During February my Wilson Energy Bill was over $250.... people's bills in Boone during February were still around $50. What's going on here?

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 7:54 AM billy said...

Electric rates in Wilson are terrible. We have replaced windows,new gas pack,energy efficient bulbs,energy efficient appliances and yet the bill goes up and up,the more I conserve the more I have to pay,something is terribly askew in Wilson.

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 1:12 AM said...

MULTIPLE SNOWS IN ONE WINTER + COLDER THAN NORMAL WEATHER = MORE CONSUMPTION OF ELECTRIC POWER. MORE DEMAND = HIGH RATES.
EXCEPT IN SOME COUTRIES, THEN HIGH DEMAND = NO POWER.

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 10:22 PM said...

It's Global Warming caused by the Bush adminsitrations failure to provide Universal Health Care so no one will have to work.

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 10:20 PM Whiners said...

Why cant yall just be happy that you have electricity, im pretty sure alot of people in 3rd world countries would love to have the opportunity to have electricity. You have a roof over your head, clothes on your body and food, some people live off a dollar a day. How selfish can we be? If you are unhappy with your bill you can always cut it off.

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 10:03 PM j said...

My utility bills have been higher this year than they have ever been. I can't even afford to pay them anymore. Maybe people would use them more if they were cheaper. Not have to worry about given themselves a budget just like everything else.

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 9:30 PM Margaret Holt said...

Energy bills are ridiculous. I keep turning my heat lower and lower and my bill just keeps creeping up. My bills are ranging from 400-500 per month for a house less than 1700 sq. feet. I have a completely new system and was told it would pay for itself within 2 years with the savings-ha-maybe if I lived somewhere else. How are we supposed to make it in this economy with energy bill this high-some people's as much as a mortgage payment. It's killing me.

Tuesday, March 02, 2010 at 1:58 PM said...

What was your utility bill?
$350
Are rates too high or fair?
Never fair, unless free.
However while all these comment are fun to read, no solutions. Surely someone whom is reading this free and open discussion is smart enough to fix the issue.
Speak up.

Tuesday, March 02, 2010 at 9:03 PM TANITSHA JOHNSON said...

I'M A SINGLE MOTHER TRYING TO TAKE CARE OF THIS LIGHT BILL BY MYSELF AND IT IS KILLING ME , IT IS JUMPING UP MONTH BY MONTH MY LAST LIGHT BILL WAS HIGHER THAN MY RENT , MY RENT IS $525 MY LIGHT BILL WAS $680 I CANT NEVER GET AHEAD PAYING THIS HIGH LIGHT BILL , WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT THIS IT IS CRAZY!

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 8:34 PM too ill said...

This is RIDICULOUS! I cut my temperature down in my house to below 70 and the bill went up. What are we suppose to do? People are struggling to eat because of these power bills and the power company says "Well you have to pay". I wish I could move and get progressive energy. I hate wilson energy.

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 3:27 PM To: City officials said said...

Correction: It's to cold for people to be without electricity.

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 3:22 PM To: the city officials said...

How do you sleep at night? If you made bad investments and poor judgement calls for the city that's your problem and you should correct it. Instead, that responsibility has been placed on the citizens of Wilson who had nothing to do with these poor decisions. You need to accept the responsibility for what you've done. Correct this problem by doing the right thing even if you have to use your own resources. What happens it people don't have the money to pay by the due date? Will you turn their service off? It is to cold for people to be with electricity. Do you want us to freeze to death? DO YOU EVEN CARE?

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 2:19 PM Seriously? said...

If you're not broke now you will be soon. Take a lot at this article from the Rocky Mount Telegram today...
http://www.rockymounttelegram.com/citydesk/elecrtricities-ceo-rate-increase-inevitable-16940
“The economy ain’t a pretty sight today, and that’s impacted our business significantly,” Edwards said. “I’m not going to mislead you. You’re going to see price increases over the next four years."
ElectriCities & City of Wilson are running this town straight into the ground!

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 2:09 PM Kathy Phillips said...

Yes, I am a little upset. My Dec bill was 350, Jan was 850 and Feb was 760. When I called after my 850 bill, was told it was due to the weather. I had them check the meter and replace it. Old meter averaged 200 K per hour and new averaged 100 K per hour, but was told that was because the weather was colder during the 200 K time period. Called again when I saw the $760 bill and only then did the city check my usage from last year to compare and found I had used over double the amount of electricity. I then had someone come out and found faulty duct work that had to be replaced. Hopefully the bill will drop next month. But still, the folks on Progress ALWAYS have lower bills and keep their heat up more than I. Not sure what the deal is with the Sharon Harris plant, but should come out of someone else's pocket and not ours...

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 12:02 PM Tracy said...

Our utility bills are outrageous!!! Last month our utility bill went up $203 from the previous month,for a grand total of $614, yet we kept our heat set on 58-60 degrees and used a wood burning fireplace that we had put in due to the rising cost of Wilson utilities. Our house is only about 2200 sq ft. All one story and it had vinyl siding put on last summer with extra insulation under that, and we have added blown insulation about 10" thick in our attic to help, but it seems that no matter what we do our utilities are just getting worse here in Wilson. Something has to happen to get this problem under control. We are a family of 6 in this house and with the rising cost of everything else along with our utilities we can not continue to pay these rediculous prices. Just a few miles down the road in Sims and Bailey a 2500 sq ft home that is about the same age as mine has a $250 utility bill with progress energy. You cant argue that there is a problem with the information that is in front of you.
As a real estate broker in Wilson, all the clients I have looking want me to find them homes that are in the county or next county over so that they are not on Wilson Energy. That is not a good thing.

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 9:13 AM Why does WE not have to file their rates? said...

http://www.pubstaff.commerce.state.nc.us/pselec/ratesched.htm
You can look at Duke, Progress and Domion but not Wilson Energy.
Check for yourself how low the electric rates are compared to WE. (14.38 per kwh)
Becareful though, there are some fees and surcharges that both add and subract from the rates.
This demonstrates we are paying 1/3 more for electric than everyone else.

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 9:00 AM Unreal said...

copied/pasted from Facebook
After my husband's article in this week's WT, we receivied info about a forthcoming meeting, whcih I feel we all need to attend. Rev. Braggs of the NAACP invited all concerned citizens to attend a meeting next Thursday night (3/4/2010) at 7:00 at the Branford Center, ...2208 Howard Jones Court, Adventura East Subdivision, Wilson, NC. This organization is pleading for solidarity of community on this issue and plans for the course of actions will be presented at that time. They are seeking the endorsement of the community. You do not have to to be a member to attend, but your voice is important, more importantly your vote counts. They have the organization and the ability to make connections that we lack at this point, and we are all on the same page. I challenge every member of this group, especially in Wilson to attend. Here is the information: Appeal to Community for Solidarity and Inclusion February 26, 2010 Dear Concerned Community I have recently become aware of several concerns surrounding the NAACP and its history locally. While these may be legitimate concerns, there is no need to allow these to impede our efforts to serve the total community and act in its best interest. We are not here to dominate or dictate. We will however, provide leadership where needed and when requested. We will also speak strongly and clearly to the “Powers that be” on behalf of those affected. In either case, we remain sensitive to the fact that we are all creatures on imperfections and possess failures and short comings. I feel that the matter of the utilities in Wilson City is one of the greatest opportunities for us to demonstrate our greatest skills and graces. We must be patient, for we are the ones who are seeking the trust and confidence of the community. In several cases, a community that does not know, nor understand who and what we are nor what we do. We must also be sensitive to the needs and expressions of the community. We can do this together. We must do this together. We will work together to achieve the greater cause. It is not the branch's position to suppress any person or organization in addressing the utilities issue. As a matter of fact we seek those who have the resources, experience, time, personal history, and willingness to either continue what they have begun or join the ranks of any who presently seek to do. The critical issue is whether or not we work in concert. The message that must be sent from anyone or any organization is that we do not allow separation that can remove our common focus and the strength we need to move forward. My recommendation is the following. In addition to our present agenda, I am respectfully asking that all groups and individuals who have been in this fight and know the strengths and weaknesses to meet and share. The objective of this meeting would be to address how we can move forward in concert as a coalition working for the good of the people. It might also be a time to tactfully dispel some of the myths and put those things which separate us, to rest. The problem of high utilities in Wilson is not a minority or majority issue. It extends beyond the racial lines and affects all socio economic classes. This is clearly not an east or west issue. This is a Wilson issue and must be addressed by the total community of Wilson and her neighbors to resolve. We cannot afford to allow anything or anyone to derail the freedom train! I call for all to get on board and let’s ride to lower utilities, greater service, fair and balanced rates, relevant and meaningful community support, and a thriving community sustained by citizens who care about what they have inherited, and are willing to sacrifice for generations following. In concert with other passengers, I remain The Reverend Alonzo Braggs, President The Wilson Branch NAACP #5470 Post Office Box 4714 Wilson, North Carolina 27893-4714 252-238-2886 Office/252-238-3019 Fax/910-991-5105 Mobile
See More

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 7:51 AM ELECTION DAY FOLKS! said...

Don't lose all this rage before May 4th!
Throw out everyone in office and start over.
It is a secret ballot, the goold ole boys won't know it was you.

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 7:25 AM Broke butt said...

Thank you wilson city for making my wifes old saying come true.she always calls me broke butt . well now i am old broke butt thanks to the high electric bills

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 3:27 AM Bean Counter said...

The electric is way too high here and everyone knows it. We have struggled to cut back as much as possible while we watched the bill go higher & higher. We have used a portable gas heater & still the bill goes up. It does not take rocket science to figure out what is going on here. Once when we called Wilson Energy they actually tried to use the excuse that they changed our meter and do so every year. My husband reads the meter daily and it still had the little splash of paint from 4 years ago after painting our house. So this proved a point. The energy company is just doing what it does best…..making excuses to the customers while they are making money. What people need to do is pay attention to their meter. Write down the meter numbers. Read it daily. Call the city and insist they come out and check it. Look for signs that they were actually there and did something. If possible have someone there to watch. If they have pulled your meter you will know if the tag has been changed on the band holding the meter. Write this number down before they come. If they really had the best interest of their customers they would be making some really huge changes of their own. As I see it we are still paying for that brainless contract that the city signed for without fully researching. No wonder this town is losing its businesses and homes. Who wants to be here anymore? I can’t wait to move & NEVER come back.

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 9:44 PM getting by said...

Our utility bill went up about $110 for the Dec. to Jan bill, but there again this is the coldest winter in the past 30 years. These bills that are over $900 and $1000 are crazy, that said there may be some mechanical issues within the house.

Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 8:34 PM ray jackson said...

yes,rates are high but we can not do any thing about it but cry. I have check into solar for my three business with a pay back in 6 years but city of wilson does not allow net metering.I pay out over $30,000.00 per year in utility it is time for a change,remember city is into cable they saw a need to complete with time warner to help us with the high cost of cable,but like any storm this will pass on again .I spoke of this issue 16 years ago when I ran for public office. its time for solar .....

Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 6:52 PM margaret coleman said...

my utility bill was way too high for Jan. and Feb. There is no way I can continue to pay this kind of inflated bill. Wilson can not get rich off of working class people.

Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 2:38 PM Its time to do something said...

I just got my electric bill and like most of you it was more than double.My bill went from 463.66 last month to 788.78 . Now there's just no way that's right.Even though its been colder I don't heat with electric.I don't even cook with electric.I can't keep paying these high bills.We need a change for sure.

Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 12:41 PM OUR lEADER said...

I think we should get the facebook guy to lead us.I dont want to put his name out there but he's good and we need a good voice to speak for us.We need a spot to meet and all of us need to attend and figure out a way to protest these bills.We seriously need to do this.I rode by the court house on Saturday but I didnt see many people so I didnt stop.But lets put this together and see what happens.OK B.K. we need you.

Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 12:33 PM Electrician said...

Electric rates and bills here in Wilson are not making any sense. I have been an electrician for 26 years and live here in Wilson. What allot of people don’t know is that there is equipment that is portable that can be installed in peoples homes or businesses on a temporary basis to analyze the power coming into your home or business. Some examples are “ Hertz or Cycles, Watts, Kilo Watts, Amps, Current and many others” This equipment can be hooked up for a few days or over months and record every aspect of your power coming into your home. The rate the city charges can be entered into the analyzer and determine what your bill will be over a billing cycle, less taxes or any other service which may be on your bill. I would like to see the City of Wilson step up and have an independent company choose multiple sites around the county where people have had extremely high bills that seem do not to be warranted. All this should be done with results posted on line and certified for everyone to see. For more information search the web for
Dranetz BMI. I would like to see the city respond to this and the citizens of Wilson demand this action we taken.
Thank you.

Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 11:59 AM Unity said...

Too many are branching out trying to their "own thing" ex. NAACP. What we need to do is come together collectively. Everyone should check out the face book page. Someone needs to be put in charge and lead the meeting. Stop the breaking up into little groups and come together as one. This isn't a black, white,or hispanic issue. This is a "people issue". Everyone have been affected by these high rates.

Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 7:57 AM Soon to be BROKE citizen! said...

ATTENTION CITY OF WILSON Quit hiding behind ElectriCities back to cover up your OWN mistakes! The City of Wilson(COW) wants people in Wilson to think ElectriCities is the main problem with our high utility bills. While ElectriCities does have their fair share of problems, COW has a lot of hidden backdoor deals going on to fund all of these WASTEFUL projects around here. Don't worry all of the truth will come out soon! :)

Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 11:27 PM Russ said...

Electricity rates are way too high in Wilson. Everyone knows that, that's the city's slush fund.

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 5:53 PM Suzanne McAllister said...

I completely understand why some folks choose to post and not give there real name, I don't fault you a bit. However, I believe it makes a stronger statement to CoW if you post your name. Thanks to all those who, like me have posted your name. I invite anyone with city to call me. Mayor and Chairman Rose knows who I am.

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 3:17 PM Suzanne McAllister said...

To Wearing shorts, back up and read my post from earlier. I believe Bridgestone has already pulled out of CoW and uses Progress Energy. If they had not, that plant would already be closed.

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 3:07 PM Tabronz said...

It doesn't make any sense that the light bill is so high we need to stand up and make a move about this situation and get another light company.

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 2:08 PM disenhearted wilsonian said...

Everybody is posting there complaints on this blog but that is not going to do any good. Everyone who has issues needs to take a stand more than just writting a complaint to others who have the same complaint. I went downtown Wilson this morning to participate in the protest but there was no one else there. If you really want to do to make a change then do something more than talk.

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 1:09 PM joan said...

Got my light bill from black creek today its over $540.00 last month it was $400.so black creek is just as bad as wilson

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 12:28 PM fed up with wilson said...

I have lived here all my life I work in Wilson and try to support Wilson when possible.but our utility bills are to high!!Also our taxes are way to high.I own 100 acres in another county with a house & a Trailer on it and my taxes are under 800.00 dollars I own a quarter acre lot with a house and pay over 2000.00 for taxes. also utility bill on the other properties is never over 100.00 dollars.And this is with E.M.C. ELECTRIC.And they give great service all the time.MAYBE ITS TIME FOR A CHANGE ALL THE WAY AROUND.Companies & the people of wilson are fed up. Iam ready to sale my house an move and I have lived here 50 years.

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 10:38 AM travis said...

It's was to high. We need to drop the electric company and get Duke Power or Progress energy in our area. We need to get national attention on this issue.When your light bill is more than your house payment. We have issues !!

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 8:42 AM SUE said...

THE ELECTRIC OUR TO HIGH AND THERE IS NO SENSE IN IT .MY WENT FROM 179.00 TO 333.00 ,THEN TO 349.00 AND THAT'S NOT USING THE DYER,WASHER,DISHWASHER USING THE FIREPLACE TO HELP HEAT AND ALWAYS SET THE TEMPERATURE AT 68. YES THERE HAS BEEN COLD DAYS BUT THERE IS NO SENSE IN THE BILLS JUMPING THAT HIGH. WE ARE JUST LINING THE POCKETS OF COUNCIL. I CAN SEE IF THEY HAD INCREASE A LITTLE BUT DOUBLE THE BILLS IS A BIT MUCH! I DON'T KNOW HOW PEOPLE WILL PAY THE BILLS THAT ARE ON SOCIAL SECURITY OR UNEMPLOYMENT. I HAVE EMAILED CHANNEL 11 . WE ALL NEED TO EMAIL AND CONTACT THE NEWS , MAYBE SOMEONE WILL HELP MAKE THEM LISTEN

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 8:35 AM KAREN LANCASTER said...

YES MY BILL IS WAY TO HIGH IT WENT FROM 140.00 TO 458.00 AND IM NOT EVEN HOME FROM 9AM TO 6PM SOMEBODY PLEASE TELL ME HOW!

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 3:09 AM Wearing shorts said...

I keep my thermostat at 65 when I and my family are at home and not working or in school, when away 62. I wear shorts and short sleeves in my home and am comfortable. My home is five years old and 3400 sq. feet, Jan bill $420, Feb. bill $400, TOTAL. I hear of a lot of high bills and feel that either people keep the thermostat too high, leave lights and other electric items on too much or just have old inefficient, poorly insulated homes. I hear complaints from every city in NC from people complaining about high utility bills regardless of who the provider is. The solution would be to USE LESS and WEAR MORE CLOTHES. I wear shorts at home and I am paying the price because I want to wear them! If my bill was unaffordable then I would consume less elctricity and gas. So why don't you people quit crying and start conserving and wearing more clothes if you can't afford your bill. Turn your big high def tv's off and the 80 lights off that you don't need!!

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 12:40 AM "To Cold" said...

Yall big wigs in wilson dont understand about the struggle from REGULAR people's view!!!

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 11:09 PM said...

IF electricities did not exist , would Wilson have had available power to expand its industrial base? Serious question. Would PRogress have had capacity to for Wilson to have Bridgestone, Merck, and more?
Great story for the Times.

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 10:25 PM bryonda artis said...

thats so bad we cant help it when need job we need job,thats so crazy yall sick people think we got all this money but we dont our light bill is $810 and $800 i heard some one light bill was $1200 u heard that u people sick

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 8:24 PM Out raged tax payer said...

I am both an outraged citizen as well as a frightened one. The fact that the electricity company apparently has the right to charge as they feel is incredibly uproffesional by them as well as the government representatives of our state. Is it not enough that jobs are decreasing and the price of food, gas, ect are increasing, is there any justification for these outrageous electric bills? None, I can figure. In Jan. of this year, our electricity bill increased $400. The only people living in our house is my husband and myself. We put absolutly no Christmas lights up and only turned the lights on the tree on Christmas day. This bill came before the weeks of cold and snow. What are we to expect this month since in genuinely has been cold? I guess these outrageous bills were a Merry Christmas present we were forced to give the electricity company. Well I do truely hope they enjoyed there present because it cost my husband 4 days in the hospital trying to work overtime in order to pay this outrageous bill and keep our lights on. My sincerest heartfelt concern and sadness for all those who have children. And our government officials wonder why there are so many people losing there homes. It has come to paying the electricity bills to keep their children warm or paying their mortgage. Let our government continue to let companies price gouge the common and citizen and there will soon be a huge population of homeless people.

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 7:24 PM joan said...

I live in black creek my light bill was over 400 dollars 200 more than last month

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 6:49 PM unreal said...

BTW, I was at the COW last week and they had their thermostat set on a toasty 72 degrees. I can't even imagine having my heat on that. Maybe we should all go down there and live. Of course, they are sure to be reading this and will change it now.

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 3:33 PM check this out said...

www.scribd.com/doc/23884780 and from this article it doesn't look like the problem will be fixed anytime soon

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 2:40 PM jake gittes said...

other places that interested folks could start looking:
-Parking lot of COW operations center. Go admire all the shiny new equipment.
-COW financials-shows how much Wilson netted from selling power to its taxpayers ($11.4MM in 2009)
-AVERAGE salary of 106 Wilson Energy employees: $67,311
-When Mr. Horne shows you that Wilson has efficient distribution, what he is saying is that the mark ups are not for distribution, they are FOR OTHER THINGS......
Speaking as one fly on the wall, as long as a Wilson elected official is on the Electricities Board (and he's Chairman) Wilson's best interests have no chance of being advanced.
Would somebody please cut on the vacuum cleaner and clean this mess up? Thank you!

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 1:11 PM WILSON WAS ON TV 11 said...

THIS MORNING I WAS WATCHING TV 11 NEWS AT 5AM AND WILSON WAS ON THERE.HE SPOKE ABOUT OUR HIGH ELECTRIC BILLS AND HOW THERE WAS OVER 2000 COMPLAINTS ON THE FACEBOOK PAGE.

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 12:11 PM Joyce Mitchell said...

The rates are ridiculos. We are away from home most of the time working, and our heat stays on the same setting. But the bill continues to climb. How can the city expect the Elderly to pay double for their utilities when their income is the same each month. Maybe we need to write to Washington.

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 12:04 PM janet barbee said...

i live in black creek, i work and am gone most of the time. i do not cook, wash or dry clothes, nor have a dishwasher. i have no teenagers running a lot of water. my bill was 367.00. this is crazy.

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 11:52 AM To: jake gittes said...

That's what people DO NOT see around Wilson!

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 11:45 AM jake gittes said...

There are two stories here:
bad power contract-- may be 1/3 of problem
City of Wilson gone way overboard spending, and using over-marked up utility rates (it's not just electricity, it's gas, water, everything they "sell" you) to feed public sector spending that is out of control...
Want to see for yourself?
1.Check your gas rate against Piedmont Natural Gas' retail rate
2. Review salaries at Wilson Energy, Greenlight, Water Dept. on and on........
It really is "The COW that ate Wilson!"

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 11:05 AM Larnell Thoms said...

Why are people marching on saturday???.....what is that about, nothing is open, what's the real purpose? To gain attention ? Don't pay your bill and you will get plenty of attention from wilson energy, there is power in groups of people coming together, if we all don't pay, they have to listen they have to change, no one is gonna cut off everyones power in wilson, ..we are the people, we supply the money, we are keeping this problem going... my suggestion, let's have a month where no one pays there bill...

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 10:52 PM Mad said...

My LightBill 936.00 this month and I for one do not run that much electricity. Its outrages!!!!! Thats two house payments for me, and I have decided to ove, I can not afford this lightbill!

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 9:43 PM wilson girl said...

Hey Wilsonians - Be sure to catch Ricardo Dew on channel 11 news tonight. He was interviewed today and will be discussing ElectriCities. Also find out what local business is thinking about closing its doors forever.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 8:40 PM Ken said...

I believe that rates are too high. Our rates are higher than other counties (ie CARY). People do their best to save energy and help the environment and still they have to pay for the higher rates.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 8:24 PM THinnant said...

Ok rates aside(cause those an't changing anytime soon). Just give us the same number of days in each bill. If every bill was for the same number of days(with in 2 or 3days) then we could truly get a picture of our fees and charges and have a better idea of what next months bill would be like.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 7:58 PM Retiree said...

When your income doesn't go up and everything else does what do you do? My utility bill was more this month than my morgage.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 7:33 PM unreal said...

Hey "John C". How much are your utility bills? Or are you staying next door? :-)

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 6:44 PM Wilson Boy said...

Everyone from Wilson shopuld read this.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/23884780/Wilson%E2%80%99s-Fiber-Optic-Cable-Boondoggle-City-Invests-28-Million-in-a-Technology-That-Could-Be-Obsolete-Before-It%E2%80%99s-Paid-For

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 1:34 PM Angel said...

Yes, the rates are definitely too high. What is really going on. Something just DOES NOT look right.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 1:10 PM help said...

we need a change here in wilson too lets get together and vote for another obama yes we can

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 1:02 PM Further Comments said...

Ignore John C! said..."John C is a person that likes to ruffle peoples feathers to get attention. From here on out don't reply to his posts and ignore him if he decides to post something. It's obvious he doesn't see the big picture here!"
You are correct, but John C just directed his comments toward me, who, as he put it, does not know anything about me. This comment is necessary to defend my family....
My electric bill doubled from December to January and again from January to February. Yes, my gas bill DID increase because it was colder and we used more heat. I'm not ignorant, and I look at the facts. I'm glad you have suggestions as to what we should do: for example, change our heat to non gas (we rent)...really? Did you honestly tell me and my husband to get better jobs???? I am COMPLETELY offended by this. You know nothing about me or my family, or our jobs, or our job situation! How could you possibly know that my husband was out of work for 6 months and looked continuously for a job until he found this GREAT job that pays him a decent salary. Then further along in the comments, you tell us to move?? Again, YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT ME OR MY SITUATION. You have NO idea what kind of variance our budget allows, and your accusations are uncalled for. AGAIN, YOU DO NOT KNOW ME! I couldn't care less if you have compassion for me...I was actually thinking about others that are struggling far more than I am! TO WILSON TIMES: What happened to "All comments must be approved"????? When another individual personally attacks someone else, that comment should be omitted. The way John C attaked me was unjustified, and I hope and pray it does not happen to anyone else. This is a tough situation for us all, and to have someone come and criticize someone's life decisions in a public post is offending and intolerable.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 12:29 PM relief said...

My light bill actually went down $200 and is due in March! Looks a lot better and I did nothing different, still about &100 more than it should be, but going down is a good thing.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 12:22 PM Pat said...

My utility bill went up about $200.00 from December's bill to January's bill. They can blame it on the cold weather all they want but we heat with LP gas. I could understand my gas bill going up but not my utility bill. Something is badly wrong and someone needs to get to the bottom of it. The first thing that could have been done was they council should never have passed a budget that included a 5% increase in utility rates. The budget should have gone back to the department heads and they should have been told to cut their budget by that percentage. Under ordianary circumstance they passed a budget with a 5% increas and then the company that the city buys their electricity from up the rates 5%. That came to a 10% increase without cold weather. Something needs to be done. I would also like to know how much profit the city makes off utilities that goes into their budget.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 11:48 AM unreal said...

The march at the courthouse is on Saturday at 11:00am.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 10:59 AM VOTE the City council people out said...

WILSON NEEDS A CHANGE.
LET'S VOTE THE CITY COUNCIL OUT THIS YEAR!!!
LET'S MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 10:58 AM cheryl watkins said...

My utility bill for January was very high..It was $502. The bill for February was $390. I don't see how the bills got so high. Noone is home doing the day. I also burn the low energy bulbs.I use the fireplace to keep apartment warm. I also have heaters that I use in two of the bedrooms. Sometimes,in the morning I turn on the furnace heater to get the chill off, then I cut the furnace off.I wash clothes at night and use cold water.I try to use all the energy-saving tips I read about,but it doesn't seem to be working. What is going on with this electric bills this year?

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 10:20 AM said...

What I don't understand is Black Creek, which is part of Wilson County, only pays 9 cents a KW and we are paying 15 cents. What's up with that?

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 9:37 AM John C said...

You people are pathetic. The city of Wilson should just pay all of your electric bill. They should provide you with free housing, and give you a free car too. They already have greenlight set up, just make that free also. Just whatever you want, however much you want. You should get it for free. You should have no bills! Make the city of Wilson pay for EVERYTHING. Everyone should live in a huge house and make the same amount of money. This way it will be fair to everyone.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 9:27 AM I read news said...

I can't wait for the bills to lower. Maybe then the Wilson Times will be able to afford not having to charge $10 to read online news.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 9:22 AM Bob Anderson said...

Will the Wilson City Council and City Staff make recommendations for approval of the several options outlined below on or before the March 18th meeting?
Assuming that 40% of the utility rate is for the debt, usually this debt would be assessed as a tax just as a Bond would be paid for a School Building. A redistribution and or amortization of the debt are just a few of the options to be explored to reduce the current utility rates.
"The cities that formed NCEMPA borrowed money to buy partial ownership in coal and nuclear plants. The debt, set to retire in 2026, is about $2.4 billion. Wilson's share is about $379 million. An estimated 38.8 percent of Wilson Energy bills go toward paying Wilson's share of the debt, said Fred Horne, director of utilities for the city of Wilson.
Mike Colo, attorney for ElectriCities, detailed several options available for cities interested in severing their ties to NCEMPA. Edwards said ElectriCities staff members are willing to work with any town official interested in any of the options."

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 8:44 AM Bob Anderson said...

Yes, rates are too high comparable to rates from other utility providers that are providing utilities to adjoining townships such as Black Creek. Explanations of why is not adequate, proposing and implementing processes to lower cost both short term and long term are the needed actions by the City Council and City Staff. A presentation of the recommended changes and status of implementation is requested to be presented by the City Council at or before the March 18th meeting.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 8:15 AM email said...

I sent wtvd 11 an email and the troubleshooter wrote back and asked for my phone number so she could call!! did anyone else get that same response????

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 7:38 AM T. Locus said...

My light bill was entirely too high. I'm not sure what is going on, no one can give me a direct answer on why my bill is $200 more last month and this month. My family has been cutting back since Christmas..and it seems to get higher. I cut off lights...I unplug appliances that are not being used, i even keep my tv off! Something is wrong and I think us citizens are paying for it.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 7:26 AM THE MARCH said...

DOES ANYONE KNOW IF THE MARCH AGAIST HIGH ELECTRIC BILLS IS STILL TAKING PLACE SATURDAY AT THE WILSON COURTHOUSE.IF SO WHAT TIME.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 4:10 AM mad woman said...

this message is to the one who's defending wilson utilities . I've been in my home for appox 16 days and i got an extreme bill of 518.00 unbelievable. This makes no sense to me.I talking 16 days noteven 30 days but half of a month. I keep my thermostate @68 degrees all the time. And yes i realize the heater has to work harder when its colder outside ,but this is insane.This is what I call robbing you without a gun. I agree with all of the rest of the citizens who feel that something should be done about this and with a quikness. Like now and In addition to the one who is defending wilson utilities, Maybe you do not have to pay utilites,or maybe you get a discount or maybe you can afford to pay this.And if that's the case then why you at it pay mine to because this is way too much,overpriced ,nonesense ,madness , but i cant not. And even if I could , I would not want to pay ridiculous prices like this. I could find a lot better use for that amount money. this amount maybe just chunk change for you but i'm not there yet.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 11:47 PM it's the same thing said...

All I am going to say is this. If the state can fine and penalize gas stations when they overcharged customers and ripped them off, then why can't they step in and do the same to Wilson Energy!!!!

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 11:17 PM Jennifer said...

My light bill went from $110 to $584 this past month! I think this is ridiculous! there are 4 people in my household two of whom work full time...i am gone all day and my husband works swing shift and two who are in school and daycare all day. We use less lights and water since I started working so our bill should have decreased...not jumped up by five times as much.we are struggling as it is and shouldn't have to worry about having heat, lights and water for our 2 small children. I am absolutely outraged!

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 11:02 PM mr broke said...

if you sit a magnet on the meater and wrap copper pipe round it it will slow down the meater so ive heard

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 10:58 PM unhappy said...

was way to high how it go form 150 one month to 459.00 the next week .

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 10:22 PM ij said...

wilson times what are you doing with this information, are you going to take this to the powers that be and help our town or just make your readers pole go up????????

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 9:12 PM ij said...

I live in the county and only have electric on my bill not water not sewer not trash no gas. My stove is on propane, which i fill for 22.00 last three months, so why is my bill all most 600.00 for a 1100. sf home. with a 36 day billing cycle 6 days more than a calender allows cost us 300.00 more dollars.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 9:07 PM Farmer John said...

OKay, we have cows. The electric fence stays the same length. It does NOT change. How in the world did our bill go up from $36 and some change to over $86 and some change??? It said on the bill we used 401 MORE KWH this month than last.HOW?? The fence did NOT move. The fence did NOT change. We did NOT add more fence. HOW DOES THIS ADD UP?? MAKES NO SENSE TO ME AT ALL. Now, wait until this summer when we are curing tobacco. Their is NO telling what our bill will run this summer. We will probably have to stop farming. Thanks Wilson City!!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 5:00 PM Get Real said...

TOO HIGH! IMPEACH THEM ALL AT CITY HALL.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 4:52 PM Suzanne McAllister said...

To Defending Wilson, I am sick of those who act as though I have no common sense. I was born in Wilson. I have lived my entire life in Wilson. I know the good and the bad of Wilson. The utility rate is to high. It has been to high for a long time. The extreme hot weather and extreme cold weather has a direct effect of our usage of electricity. THE POINT IS, with the ecomonic depression, and yes I said depression, it has in many ways adversely effected everyone's financial situation. SO, WHEN THE WEATHER IS BAD AND THE UTILITY BILL DOUBLES,AND WE ALREADY ARE FIGHTING TO KEEP OUR HOMES,IT CALLS ATTENTION TO THE EXCESSIVELY HIGH ELECTRIC BILL. THE CITY OF WILSON NEEDS TO TIGHTEN IT'S BELT LIKE EVERYONE ELSE, AND REDUCE OVERHEAD, THEREFORE, THEY CAN REDUCE UTILITY RATE. ALSO, THEY NEED TO DO EVERYTHING POSSIBLE TO FIND "STIMULUS MONEY MAYBE" TO HELP PAY OFF ELECTRICITIES DEBT. Just think about all that Hurricane Fran and Floyd money that was left over that they wasted on pet projects. Did they think to apply some of that excess Federal money to reduce Electricites debt?

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 4:16 PM bobby said...

how can the bill double in price , not just one month but 2 months. it is terrible. all of us in wilson need help to survive.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 4:13 PM DENISE said...

THE CITY OF WILSON KNOWS THAT THESE UTILIY BILLS WERE TO HIGH IT'S PATHETIC THAT THEY WOULD DO US THIS WAY..... I WISH THE CITY OF WILSON RESIDENTS COULD GET TOGETHER AND FIND BUSINESS ELSE WHERE......

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 4:04 PM To Defending Wilson Energy said...

And the last 5 days have been in the 60's. We won't hear about that at bill time though.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 2:50 PM Ashley Shingleton said...

Our bill was 700 dollars last month and 700 this month. This is outrageous. It is getting hard to support your family with bills like this. Its sad when your light bill is just as much as a mortgage payment, if not more. Something has got to give her, we are not going to be able to make it like this much longer.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 2:41 PM ROSEMARY WILLIAMS said...

YES MY BILL IS TO HIGH IT RUN ABOUT 300.00 TO 340.00 PER MONTH ONLY ONE PERSON IN MY HOUSE HOLE
HALF MY INCOME.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 2:37 PM Nothing is going to be done said...

Its like this, its like gas prices you pay it or you walk or ride your bike, same with the light bill you either pay it or move or sit in a cold dark house..

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 2:37 PM Anonymous said...

Yes, I feel that the rates are too high. I understand the weather has been colder but the difference is not that drastic from month to month. I can't understand how a light bill can double in a billing cycle when the weather is practically the same. I change my filters, keep my thermostat set at a constant temp but yet and still, my bill has doubled and I can't understand why.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 2:25 PM unfair said...

To: Defending Wilson Energy
Once again we all know it has been cold outside!!! It has been cold everywhere in North Carolina, but why are rates so much higher than everyone else's. HELLO!!!! And if you were reading these comments you would understand that we are NOT keeping our temperatures at what we WANT them at. When you step outside and there is not much difference between the inside of your home and the outside and you still get a bill double or triple than what you normally pay for then their IS a problem!!!! HELLO!!!! HELLO!!!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 2:10 PM To: Defending Wilson Energy said...

Duh! We all know a heater runs more when it's colder outside.
Since you are defending Wilson, please tell us why we have one of the HIGHEST rates in Eastern, NC compared to other cities involved with ElectriCities? Also, why is Mayor Rose the Chairman of the Board for ElectriCities? Are you a city employee? Do you live in this town?
A lot of people are and have been clueless about our electric bills, but you better believe there has been A LOT learned/discovered over the past couple of months. Somebody has a lot of explaining to do!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 2:10 PM Defending Wilson Energy said...

Does anyone has any sense of feeling? It has been cold this winter compared to the last few winters. IT IS COLD OUTSIDE!!! Today will make it the third time is has snowed. We haven't seen a good snow in years. When it is cold outside you heater has to work harder to keep your house at the temperature you want it. Just because you don't raise the temperature, doesn't mean that your heat doesn't run anymore. It has to keep on pumping to keep it the same. HELLO!
I think Wilson Energy is doing a great job.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 1:35 PM To: Suzanne said...

Of course Mayor Rose sleeps all night because we're lining his pockets with OUR hard earned money! If he cared he would have done something a long time ago. Karma will pay him a visit soon!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 1:12 PM unreal said...

I agree.....ignore John C. BTW, there is a meeting tomorrow night at the Contending For The Faith Church down by the Reid St Rec Center to hear Councilman Pitt reguarding our plight. He seems to be the only councilman as concerned as we are. I am going to be there.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 1:08 PM Suzanne McAllister said...

It's sad when my little dog has to wear a sweater in the house. Downstairs thermostat at 65, up stairs is set on 58. Dog stays under the covers all night. Mr. Rose, what more can we do. I sleep with thermal underwear on under my flannel pajamas, wrapped with two old fashion quilts. I'm wearing 3 pair of socks now. Mr. Rose, can you sleep at all at nights knowing folk, young and old are cold? I am so disappointed with you.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 12:23 PM Ignore John C! said...

John C is a person that likes to ruffle peoples feathers to get attention. From here on out don't reply to his posts and ignore him if he decides to post something. It's obvious he doesn't see the big picture here!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 11:37 AM We are not illiterate said...

To: John C.
We don't need you to tell us what we already know(how to economize). When a bill doubles and in some cases triples, and one hasn't changed their thermostat, somthing is wrong with that picture. You don't need to be a Rocket Scientist to determine something is wrong. SO STOP SPEWING IGNORANCE. I will be at the court house on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. You need to go also!!!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 11:35 AM Family Man said...

I am a father that is a sole provider for my family. I have a hadicapped child that requires my wife to stay at home with. Our utility bill more than doubled this past month. This was crazy, things are hard enough for working class people. Who is going to stand up and say when it is enough and fix the problem. I don't want a handout like I'm a poverty case, I just feel that our Wilson Board should do their job and and look out for the peoples best interest. I'm sure Mr.Rose wasn't concerned about his utility bill, he has gotten rich off of the people in this city/county.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 11:10 AM charles murray said...

i am a person on fixed income my bill jumped from arround 200.00 to almost 400.00 i dont use hot water to wash clothes dont use clothesdryer and keep heat on 67 and ware a coat ever who decied to raise rates are crazy and need to live on my income for a six mounth peoriod so they could understand why people like me go through i speak for everyone maybe we need to get togather and picket the city of wilson.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 10:45 AM John C Response said...

Since you seem to know everything and have a solution to all our problems -- I don't know anything about you, you speak in random generalizations because you know you have no valid points -- , tell me this....I heat my home with gas, which is not through Wilson Energy. We have consistently turned our thermostat down by 2 degrees each month. Are you telling me that it takes more energy for my refrigerator and lights to run/burn because it's colder outside? --No, how much did you electric bill increase, did you read the meter to make sure there wasn't a mistake? -- Are you telling me that it is okay for me to pay more than my father, who lives in a home that's 2,400 sq ft larger than mine, who has Progress Energy? He doesn't heat with gas --He is still paying to heat his house, change your heat to non gas --. He doesn't have to fill a tank as well as pay his utility bill, and his bill was LESS than mine for the same number of days . He lives in Nash County and I live in Wilson County. --Move to Nash county and save! -- My utility bill includes ONLY electricity. --So your gas bill was the same? Of course it was because it wasn't the high WE rates -- You tell me I choose to allocate my resources to certain expenses...do you live in my home? Do you know how we struggle so badly from day to day that my husband works a minimum of 60 hrs/week just for us to survive? --Get a better job -- Our funds go to our necessary bills, gas, and groceries. We live on a budget, and that budget does not include my utility bill doubling at any given time. -- You should plan for variance in your budget -- We don't eat out. We wake up, go to work, come home, cook, and go to bed. We don't have cable. We do without. We do cover up with blankets, but telling someone to wear hats, gloves, and a coat inside their home is a little extreme, don't you think? -- If you want to save money it is not extreme -- When it comes to that point, it's a desperate situation. We might as well be living on the street... --How big is your house, how have your bills increased -- Where is your compassion for your "neighbors," or are you as cold hearted as you seem? -- I don't care about my neighbors in the altruistic way you want me to. You made a certain life decisions in the past from where you work, where you live, what you consume, etc and you can still change these decisions. Your inability to change makes me have no compassion for you at all --

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 10:32 AM Really? said...

It does not matter who you are, where you came from or who you voted for, the Utility bills are too high for everybody!! And the only reason for it is the fact that we need heat, light, water and garbage service so they can charge whatever they want! The monopoly of the Electric company does not help because if we could choose, we would go somewhere else to get our power from. As soon as the city come up with Greenlight services everybody should have known that eventually we would have to pay for it. The problem is that the few people that choose to get Greenlight are not paying for all that money that was spent. No the time is here and we are paying for it with our utility bills!! but lets blame it on the cold!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 8:36 AM John C said...

The point is you need to take personal resbonsility for your utility consumption and stop complaining. Or move somewhere else. You can blame everyone else, except yourself. Maybe WE needs to look at themselves and improve, maybe the mayor needs to do the same thing. But all because they may pass the buck, doesn't mean you should use WE as a scapegoat for your bills that are "too high". Even if they cut your bill 10% you would still be complaining about it being too high. Even if they cut it 30%, Wilson times could still get a thread started with people complaining about their energy bill. There are 20 different gas stations in Wilson, but it is not their fault the price of gas has skyrocketed, right?? All because there is one company, it may be easy to blame them. But if there were 20 companies just like gas stations, you would still have high energy bills, and you would still be on this site complaining about them being "too high".

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 8:30 AM we all know said...

Eastern North Carolina OWNED and OPERATED by ELECTRACITIES and all of your local politicians on the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.Is this a conflict of interest ya think.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 8:09 AM I promised myself I wouldn't comment again, but.... said...

John C said: "It amazes me at how you all view your energy bill emotionally and not rationally. You choose to allocate your resources to certain expenses. If you don't like your energy bill, move to raleigh and save millions of dollars. you people think you are saving money by keeping your thermostat on 65, lol... Oh no it didn't change, what about the freezing weather? Maybe it costs more to heat the house when it is colder outside?? Maybe you should get some blankets and put on a coat, hat, gloves, socks, long underwear. Stop complaining about bills be "too high", how much is too high? You consumed a certain amount. Maybe you consumed "too much"."
Since you seem to know everything and have a solution to all our problems, tell me this....I heat my home with gas, which is not through Wilson Energy. We have consistently turned our thermostat down by 2 degrees each month. Are you telling me that it takes more energy for my refrigerator and lights to run/burn because it's colder outside? Are you telling me that it is okay for me to pay more than my father, who lives in a home that's 2,400 sq ft larger than mine, who has Progress Energy? He doesn't heat with gas. He doesn't have to fill a tank as well as pay his utility bill, and his bill was LESS than mine for the same number of days. He lives in Nash County and I live in Wilson County. My utility bill includes ONLY electricity. You tell me I choose to allocate my resources to certain expenses...do you live in my home? Do you know how we struggle so badly from day to day that my husband works a minimum of 60 hrs/week just for us to survive? Our funds go to our necessary bills, gas, and groceries. We live on a budget, and that budget does not include my utility bill doubling at any given time. We don't eat out. We wake up, go to work, come home, cook, and go to bed. We don't have cable. We do without. We do cover up with blankets, but telling someone to wear hats, gloves, and a coat inside their home is a little extreme, don't you think? When it comes to that point, it's a desperate situation. We might as well be living on the street...Where is your compassion for your "neighbors," or are you as cold hearted as you seem?

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 8:08 AM Larnell Thoms said...

Yes 690.76 and the rates are too much, when my sister in law in MO has a twice as big house and half the bill where its colder and the Mayor (Rose) is the Chairman of the Board of Directors for Electricities...how do we let them get away with this,...lastly the utilities in black creek are cheeper then the city of Wilson

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 8:01 AM The answer is in the ballot box said...

Either elect some people that will ask questions and research the issue or quit complaining.
All of the cities and towns and the county goverment need to work togather on this and all issued.
Until you get rid of all the good ole boy networks at all levels nothing will change.
Someone is profiting from our misery. It's just a matter of determining whom.
Your vote can mean more on a local level than your vote for president. There are more issues in your local like that are affected on a daily basis.
Throw out all of the incumbents if you want to see any change.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 7:28 AM Rosa said...

My utility bill is normally $300 - $400 per month. For the last 2 months the bill has been $600 - $700. This is absolutely not acceptable and unmanageble. Why??? I am using less utilities, away from home all day, and almost freeze when I am home just to manage my bills. You can't budget for increases such as this!!!Please do something to lower Wilson's bills. We are feeling ROBBED!!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 12:35 AM not a factor said...

DO I FREEZE MY KIDS OR FEED MY KIDS. EITHER WAY WE CANT WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 11:02 PM Who are you kidding? said...

You can tell who works for the City of Wilson on this page! Seriously, why would you take up for bunch of money hungry crooks? Maybe because your job is on the line? Come on city employees, if you pay the "same" rates as everyone else why sit back and not do anything about it? GET REAL!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 11:00 PM hello........ said...

Wilson Energy's utility rates have always been totally out of line. I've lived here 4 years and haven't seen a fair rate on any city provided utilities yet !!!!! Add to that high taxes among other things. now if given a choice why would people want to live here???? Someone at W.E. is really getting rich !!!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 10:25 PM Sharpsburg said...

The utility here is not called for.No one bill should be this high all of sutton.They blame is on the cold,I dont care it wasnt that cold to make these bills go SKY HIGH like this they can READ TIL THEIR HEAD FALL OFF THATS A LIE.Some investergation need to be done.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 9:54 PM SHARPSBURG CITIZEN said...

NO, IT DOESNT MAKE SENSE THESE UTILITY BILLS AS HIGH AS THEY ARE.IM A WILSON CO. RESIDENT IT DONT MAKE SENSE.SHARPSBURGS IS HIGH AS HECK TOO.THEY GOT IT SO BAD HERE IN SHARPSBURG THEY ARE ESTIMATING OUR BILLS.THAT MEANS THEY PUT WHAT THEY WANT ON THE CHARGE.NOT READING OUR METERS.LOTS OF PEOPLES HAD THEIRS READ.SINCE THEY ESTMATED OUR BILLS WHICH THEY SAID THE READ,BUT WE DEEEP N SIDE THINK THEY LIED.ITS GOING TO BE THEIR WAY OR NO LIGHTS.WHICH I HOPE THE STATE LOOKS INTO THIS PROBLEM.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 9:48 PM ??? said...

To JOhn C....
We are well aware that the weather has been cold, it's winter...duh. The point we are making, is that is has been cold everywhere else too!!!!! Not just Wilson!!!! Oh and by the way, this also has not been the first winter we have lived through. Oh and as far as blaming, I guess since you don't want us to say that our Wonderful Utlity dept. is not to blame, let's just blame God. I guess he has just surrounded Wilson with the coldest weather of anyone in the surrounding area!!!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 9:35 PM To John C said... said...

John C...
May as well save the wear and tear on your fingers~~~ Nobody here wants to hear any logic like the weather could have any possible connection to their increased heating costs or that maybe they should take some responsibility for their energy use and subsequent cost. Much easier to blame someone else! You know... its a big conspiracy with Wilson using their evil "meter control machine" to speed up all the meters!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 9:21 PM Suzanne McAllister said...

I vote. I weatherize. I would weatherize more if I could afford to. We have had to "tighten our belts." We economize. Now is the time the City of Wilson does the same. Cut the waste, do without just like the rest of us. Also make effort to gain federal assistance with debt. Also, Mayor Rose proved he represents Electricities, not Wilson when he snapped Mr. Pitt's head off at last meeting. Mr. Rose needs to resign.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 9:00 PM Joe said...

I moved down from Jersey to get away from high bills but from what I see NC makes a big business out of utilities . Is ashame that NC has a lot of good people in it but politicians get elected into government they forget about the people . All counties and towns utilities should be run by a utilities commission where before they could hike up the rates they would have to go infront of this comission. I live in Sharpsburg and since they neglected the maint. on the sewer pipes Rocky Mount charges them more for treating the sewer now we the citizens have to pay for thier mistake.And we get charge 100% of the gallons of water for sewer too even if you water your yard ,pets or garden of even fill your pool.Sewer and water pipes installation is usely funded by usda for now income areas so why not keep the rates low. They are suppose to charge just enough to maintain the system not make alot of profit from it.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 8:54 PM all of you who are complaining said...

how many of you bothered to vote in the city elections in November. be honest only about 10 percent or alot less in some districts bothered to vote.if you didnt SHUT UP !!!!!!! you have absolutely no right to complain about anything. the majority of the few people who bothered to vote have exactly who they want in there

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 8:27 PM youll get no sympathy from me said...

the relief you seek is at the ballot box. the majority who choose to vote must be happy with their utility bills and other taxes.keep doing the same and you will continue to get the same.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 8:24 PM Wilsonian said...

My electric bill like everyone else has doubled while we conserve more the bill keeps going up.What can we possibly do to lower these bills.We already sit in the cold and dark.Its crazy

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 8:22 PM Stephen Beal said...

I live in wilson woods apt. complex .. last month by bill was 675, and I just got it today for this month and it is running 700! Norm is around 300... What is going on????

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 7:53 PM SAY NO TO GREENLIGHT/WE said...

All of you that are complaining, how many of you have greenlight services? The more services they provide you the easier it is for them to edge out other companies providing similar/same services. This allows the city of wilson more power and foothold in/on the community! Every new greenlight customer puts everyone of us further under the dictatorship of Wilson. We may not be able to change our electric supplier as of now, but you can choose how much of your money makes it to the same pot of the system you are all saying is not fair. You can make a little difference say no to greenlight!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 6:37 PM Marj said...

Utility bills are too high when some people bills are higher than their mortgage. My heat is always at 65 or 68 degrees, to me it's still cold. I sit in one room all day and turn the temperature down to keep the furnish from coming on so much when it's really cold outside. I wash clothes only once a mo. Then too, Wilson has so many water bills attached to the utility bill. I thought my electric bill would have been higher in Dec. than in Jan. because I burned lights more in Dec. But, to my surprise the bill just jumped sky high, everytime I cut back, the bill just goes up higher. Gas it just high, high, high! Those extra days in a month is a joke. When did one month end with 35 days, I wonder how many days will Feb. have. I have really considered moving back to MD. (1) No tax on cars every yr. (2)Utilities are cheeper. (3)taxes lower. Wilson has 6.75 tax on merchandise and 2.00 tax on food, what a joke. Add another quarter and that's 10 cents on a dollar. Then there's dog tax, car tax. Where is all that money going with no job in sight. That's why businesses are leaving. Next year, put up some solar Christmas light so our bills won't be so high during the winter. Believe me, I'll be going all solar next Christmas. Keep it up Wilson, great job you're doing running people away. Those who can't afford to pay their bills, I feel sorry for them. Most of them can't buy food to eat for having to pay utilities. Just Not Fair.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 6:06 PM liz said...

Yes way too high our bill doubled this month totally ridiculous

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 5:57 PM Tammie said...

My light bill was 695.00 dollars, I have never in my life a light bill that high for one month, how are people suppose to pay for a bill like that, I sure hope the next month isn't that high.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 5:24 PM To John C said...

Are you the mayor, an elected official, or a Wilson Energy employee? You may have the means too pay these high bills. People are on fixed incomes and many are unemployed. Those of us who work, it is a struggle to pay these high bills. You said maybe we used "too much?" Well, people are conserving and the bills are still high. What is your excuse now?

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 4:40 PM AVK said...

Our bill was extremely higher than normal, but the weather must be considered. I do feel that my family is conservative with our electricity and gas use--we have our thermostat set at 62 degrees all the time. We take short showers, and I wash clothes only once a week. I believe the rates are high in Wilson compared to surrounding areas. Coming from Raleigh and Progress Energy, I am paying double and sometimes even triple what I paid there! I understand the difference between Wilson's electric company and Progress Energy, but it has been a shock every month to open our bill! I believe there should be some incentive offered by the city for those who conserve and have energy-efficient homes.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 3:57 PM To John C once again! said...

The heat was on 68 during the coldest month(Dec.) and 65 this past month(Jan.), which was warmer.
WARMER TEMPS + LOWER THERMOSTAT "SHOULD" = LOWER BILL! NOT IN WILSON, NC!!!
You say move...WOW that's real intelligent in a poor economy and high utilities. Who wants to buy my house in this town???? NOBODY! It time to wake up!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 3:50 PM unreal said...

RE: Utility Customer....PLEASE contact me thru "Tired of paying HIGH utility bills in Eastern NC" on facebook. I need to talk with you. I will be looking for you. Thanks! :-)

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 3:47 PM Diane wilson trouble shooter tv 11 said...

I just sent a email to Diane Wilson also so please people we need her help so send them emails to her.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 3:44 PM Yvette said...

Has a clue said...
..."The electric portion on the bill went up 30% because I was billed for 30% more days, 25 in Nov. - Dec. and 34 from Dec. - Jan. We spent $6.84 per day during the November to December cycle and $7.08 per day for the December to January cycle. That is an increase of just 24 cents a day. No huge increase. 24 cents represents the additional cost that it takes to run my gas pack during the unseasonable cold spell. The bulk of my additional cost for the UTILITY BILL was for the increased amount of gas we used to heat our home in the record setting number of below average temperatures we have had since the middle of December. We use 49 CCF of natural gas during the November to December cycle and our usage increased to 169 CCF. Remember we had 9 more day in the December to January cycle. The cold weather required us to utilize our gas pack to heat our home to a cool 67 degrees. Our cost per day for gas increased from $3.07 per day to $7.25 per day for cycle during the cold snap. This will quickly be reduced in a few weeks when spring temperatures arrive. There is no increase in the rates, it is an increase everyone's usage."
HOW DARE YOU! My bill was $350 for December and 30% of $350 is NOT $575 for January and $530 for February! I have not touched my thermostat...I have a lock on it so that no one in my house touches it and I leave the key at work so that no one in my house finds it. I work from 8am-5pm and we go to bed at 9pm-10pm so please tell me that my TV's and lamps uses so much electricity that it would cost me $225 extra a month???? I'm confused, you're good with these numbers, help a sister out!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 3:11 PM soontobeEXwilsonian said...

This thing has been going on for quite some time now and it has everything to do with the fact that Wilson Energy is not reading the meters consistantly the same number of days each month. If they are reading the meter 1 month for 28 days and then the next month for 39 days there will be a huge difference in your bill. I think it's absolutely ridiculous that they are allowed to do this and it doesn't help the citizens at all by doing it the way that they've done it for years. This contract that they've signed to have the middle man control the costs is saving the city but costing the taxpayers more and it's not fair.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 2:27 PM me, ,yself and I said...

I think Wilson has a main switch to turn everyones meters up because I know for a fact that I did not use over 4,000 kilowatts of power, I haven't changed anything and our thermostat stays on 68 always.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 2:22 PM REAL-ITY said...

RE: Really? said...
You people need to have some personal accountability. This pathetic thread about how "crooked" Wilson Energy behaves shows just how pathetic you people are. Wilson Energy doesn't set your thermostat, YOU do. Wilson Energy just provides reliable services so you can heat/cool your home to whatever temperature you desire. Stop blaming the city and look in the mirror. Put on a blanket and quit whining!
IN RESPONSE TO YOUR PATHETIC COMMENT AND REMARKS. US WILSON ENERGY CUSTOMERS HAVE AND DO CUT OUR THERMOMETERS DOWN, MUCH LOWER THAN PEOPLE IN OUR NEIGHBORING COUNTIES. THIS DOESN'T DO ANY GOOD!!!! NO THEY DO NOT SET OUR THERMOSTAT BUT THEY SURE AS HECK SET OUR RATES AND THE SPEED OF OUR METERS. THEY CHARGE ALMOST DOUBLE THE RATES OF OTHER CITIES AND BELIEVE ME OUR METERS ARE BEING TAMPERED WITH. AS FAR AS LOOKING IN THE MIRROR, WE WOULD BUT THEY ARE COVERED IN ICE!!!!!!!!!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 2:17 PM Gone With The Wind said...

I just did my part and emailed Channel 11 hopefully Diane Wilson will do a story on this matter and get some questions answered!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 1:48 PM let your voices be heard said...

People don't let up. Spring is right around the corner and we will experience milder weather. What I am concerned about is that people are going to stop voicing their concerns because of the break in weather. If we allow that to happen, the high electric bills are going to be a vicious cycle of astronomical amounts. Don't let up!!! Let your voices be heard!!!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 12:55 PM John C Reply said...

It amazes me at how you all view your energy bill emotionally and not rationally. You choose to allocate your resources to certain expenses. If you don't like your energy bill, move to raleigh and save millions of dollars. you people think you are saving money by keeping your thermostat on 65, lol... Oh no it didn't change, what about the freezing weather? Maybe it costs more to heat the house when it is colder outside?? Maybe you should get some blankets and put on a coat, hat, gloves, socks, long underwear. Stop complaining about bills be "too high", how much is too high? You consumed a certain amount. Maybe you consumed "too much".

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 12:38 PM w..w..w..wilson said...

Diane wilson trouble shooter tv 11 said...
We need several people to send Diane Wilson trouble shooter for TV 11 as many complaints as possible.We have already sent a few complaints to her.Please send more so maybe she will start an investigation as to why our electric bills are so high.She loves a good fight and I think this would be a good job for her.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 12:00 PM utility customer said...

To repeat someone's reply from a few days ago.....
"HOW MANY OF YOU WILL ATTEND THE MARCH IN FRONT OF THE COURT HOUSE SATURDAY FEB.27TH AT 11AM.WE HAVE CONTACTED A LOCAL TV STATION FOR SUPPORT."
remember strength in numbers, THANK YOU !!!!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 11:54 AM TO: John Carmichael, Really? & whoever else... said...

Open your eyes and look at the big picture! Yes, we pay for what we use, but look at what Wilson Energy charges its customers compared to other cities in NC. I'm glad you have plenty of money to flush down the toilet on these ridiculous utility bills, but a majority us cannot afford this nonsense! The cost of living keeps rising and our paychecks DO NOT!
By the way, my first high bill was with our thermostat set on 68 during the day and 65 at night. Well to conserve I reduced the heat to 65 day & night. Guess what? No difference in the bill!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 11:38 AM reply to j carmichael/really said...

you two must be the cavemen that are from the stone age.if you have your thermostat on 60 it cant go much lower and what are you two taking sides with wilson energy for any way.you must work there.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 11:17 AM Fair said...

All I ask is for our electricity to be fair when compared with other cities in our area. If we are within a % or two, I'm ok with the current bills. If not, it should change. I think supply and demand should work in utilities as well as general business.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 10:45 AM jane said...

WIlson is notorious for high bills. The tax rates are higher than greenville and raleigh. then comes electricty same thing. this is because the middle class struggling fox are paying for the lazy fox enjoying free subsidies from the city. free wic, free daycare just to mention a few because most of this applicants lie to get this services. guess who has to pay for it? the working few. So yes the city charges more to fund this projects. its time for a change.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 10:44 AM John Carmichael said...

Stop complaining, get some personal accountability. You people are a bunch of babies that just want to blame everything on everyone else, except yourself.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 10:08 AM tasha jenkins said...

I TRULEY THINK THAT THESE RATES ON THE UTILITY BILLS ARE CRAZY. MOST PEOPLE DON'T EVEN MAKE ENOUGH TO PAY THEIR LIGHT BILLS NOT TO SAY BUT PAY AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT ADDED TO WHAT YOU ALREADY CAN'T PAY. WHAT ABOUT THE ELDERLY AND THE SINGLE PARENTS STRUGGLING. WHO'S GOING TO PAY THESES EXPENSIVE UTILITY BILLS?

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 9:58 AM Really? said...

You people need to have some personal accountability. This pathetic thread about how "crooked" Wilson Energy behaves shows just how pathetic you people are. Wilson Energy doesn't set your thermostat, YOU do. Wilson Energy just provides reliable services so you can heat/cool your home to whatever temperature you desire. Stop blaming the city and look in the mirror. Put on a blanket and quit whining!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 9:33 AM Legal Action!?? said...

WE CAN'T SELL OUR HOME! BUYERS SEE THE "WE" BILL AND SAY NO WAY! ISN'T THIS A CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT!????

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 9:30 AM Unreal said...

TO: utility customer....I would like to get in touch with someone who is planning the march. Please join "Tired of paying HIGH utiliy bills in eastern NC" on facebook and let us know b/c we have an idea. Thanks so very much. I am sure you don't want to publish your phone number here and neither do I but really would like to talk with you! :-)

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 9:28 AM Show Support on Thurs 25th said...

Everyone here has a common theme and concern so all of you writing comments here need to join us on February 25th at 6pm at Contending the Faith Church Academy Street) so we can be heard. There is strength in numbers. Let the City know once and for all we mean business this time!!!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 9:18 AM Wayne Hardy said...

Yes, I agree. Our utility bill has been extremely "TOO HIGH" the last couple of months. We have no one at home during the day, and only up for 2-3 hrs at night before going to bed.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 8:54 AM said...

I think it is unfair that I have to pay for he amount of electricity I use. The City should charge everyone an equal amount regardless of the amount you use. Treat us all equal. Everyone should have medicaid. Everyone should have the same size house. Then when the goverment controls everything free speech would be shut down.
All these complaints are fun to read, its all a conspiracy by the City of Wilson kabal. Give me a break.
How is this for an answer?
Triple the property taxes, triple the local sales tax, triple the water and sewer rates, cut funding to fire police rescue, fire all city staff, cut Wilson Energy staff to about 10% of where it is today . Use all those funds to pay the electricities bill.
Wilson would be a dead town, but hey we would have cheap electric.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 4:49 AM EAT OR SIT IN THE DARK said...

Its sad that people are having to make such hard choices today.Its so hard to pay the out of this world electric bills when you are on a fixed income.There has to be something done about this.I plan to be at the march Saturday at the courthouse and I hope many more will be there.All we can do is pull together and fight for whats right.People with kids and a single income,elderly people,sick people with huge medical bills,we are all affected by this.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 2:42 AM big said...

they are ripping us off and they are crooks

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 2:25 AM righteousman said...

It's a shame that citizens are having to pay such high light bills. Truly, it doesn't make sense that your light bill is runs strong competition with your mortgage. This is a shame for all citizens, but it is especially hard for the poor. Sadly to say, the city eagerly rushes to cut off the lights of many of the poor who can't pay, and they show no mercy. Mayor Rose and all of those city members who join him in such lack of concern for the poor should remember that what goes around comes back around. When the chickens finally come home to roost,they'll be sorry for their slothfulness in dealing with this matter. More than this, God will not be mocked, and whatever they sow will also be reaped by them. They'd better stop and clean up this while they can. They will pay one by one at the polls, and the word to get this done is traveling fast.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 12:27 AM john said...

Wilson should get out of the electricity (and natural gas) business. We should sell or give all our electricity equipment and transfer all our electricity employees to Progress Energy. The concept of marking up discounted energy is gone. Let those that know how to run a utility provide the service.
Wilson can't do anything about these rates and we should demand that the City focus on things they can impact not something that is beyond their control.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 11:58 PM brenda williams said...

my light bill is to much....help

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 11:55 PM Christina A said...

My family and I are home maybe 5 hours throughout the day and our light bill tripled this month. I think its unfair!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 10:59 PM Has a clue said...

All you whiners need to look closely at your UTILITY BILL. Please note that the City of Wilson makes in convenient for its citizens by billing all of the UTILITIES on one bill. My UTILITY bill went from $346.98 for my November to December Cycle to $615.32 for the December to January Cycle. The electric portion on the bill went up 30% because I was billed for 30% more days, 25 in Nov. - Dec. and 34 from Dec. - Jan. We spent $6.84 per day during the November to December cycle and $7.08 per day for the December to January cycle. That is an increase of just 24 cents a day. No huge increase. 24 cents represents the additional cost that it takes to run my gas pack during the unseasonable cold spell. The bulk of my additional cost for the UTILITY BILL was for the increased amount of gas we used to heat our home in the record setting number of below average temperatures we have had since the middle of December. We use 49 CCF of natural gas during the November to December cycle and our usage increased to 169 CCF. Remember we had 9 more day in the December to January cycle. The cold weather required us to utilize our gas pack to heat our home to a cool 67 degrees. Our cost per day for gas increased from $3.07 per day to $7.25 per day for cycle during the cold snap. This will quickly be reduced in a few weeks when spring temperatures arrive. There is no increase in the rates, it is an increase everyone's usage.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 10:10 PM Tired of Paying High Bills said...

February bill was the highest that I have seen. I went from 350 to 574. I don't even see how that happened. I think that the city of Wilson is getting over on these light bills, I have even considered relocating. Is that what the city of Wilson wants is to move their customers out of their city?

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 9:15 PM BN PARKER said...

i WILL BE AT THE MARCH ON sATURDAY . MY LIGHT BILL WENT FROM 180 TO 644 IN 3 MONTHS.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 9:13 PM Linda Bohne said...

Yes, my utility almost tripled. I think it is really unfair. My utility bill higher than my mortgage payment and insurance together means there is definetly something wrong. There should be choices with whom you want to do your electricity through; like choosing insurance, where to buy groceries etc., because we would definetly drop the ciy of wilson.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 8:12 PM utility customer said...

Please everyone contact 60 minutes & wral 5 on your side. Get answers why wilson energy is raping us & posting multi million $ profits. ALSO please join the march saturday downtown wilson POWER IN NUMBERS !!!!!

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 8:08 PM CHEAP ELECTRIC BILLS said...

I HAVE FAMILY IN WEST VA,NEBRASKA AND KENTUCKY AND NONE OF THEM HAVE HIGH BILLS LIKE WILSON DOES.IF YOU DIDNT KNOW BETTER YOU'D THINK EVERYONE HAS BILLS LIKE THIS BUT THATS NOT TRUE.THE WEST VA BILLS RUN AVERAGE OF 45.00 A MONTH AND NO HIGHER THAN 100 AMONTH.KENTUCKYS BILLS RUN LOW ALSO.AND NEBRASKA HAS VERY LOW BILLS.CHECK THEM OUT AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED AT THE DIFFERENCE.MY BILL HAS BEEN OVER 550.00 PAST 3 MONTHS

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 6:58 PM MS.ROSA said...

MY ELECTRIC BILL IS 488.00 JANUARY AND 603.00 IN FEBUARY.ME AND MY SISTER LIVE ALONE IN WILSON.SHES 92 AND I'M 78.WE CONSERVE IN EVERY WAY POSSIBLE.NOT JUST OUR ELECTRIC BUT IN EVERY WAY WE CAN.WE HAVE VERY LITTLE INCOME COMING IN EACH MONTH.WE USE GAS HEAT AND HAVE A GAS COOK STOVE.NOW IVE LIVED IN MY HOUSE OVER 36 YEARS AND NEVER HAVE I EVER HAD A BILL LIKE THIS BEFORE.WE HAD TO TURN OUR CABLE TV OFF BECAUSE WE CANT AFFORD TO PAY IT ANY MORE.IM HAVING MY NEIGHBOR SEND THIS LETTER INTO THE WILSON TIMES FOR ME.IF THERES ANYONE OUT THERE THAT CAN HELP PLEASE LET US KNOW.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 6:53 PM said...

Just opened my bill , $50 less. I turned the temp down and conserved as much as possible. I have replaced almost all the bulbs with compact Fluorescent bulbs.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 6:53 PM STEAMING OVER HEATED PRICES said...

MY BILL HAS REACHED A RATE OF OVER $500 A MONTH FOR THE LAST 3 MONTHS.I DONT KNOW HOW MUCH LONGER WE CAN ALL PAY THESE BILLS.THERES NO WAY POSSIBLE I USED THIS AMOUNT OF ELECTRIC.I DONT EVEN HEAT WITH ELECTRIC.I USE GAS HEAT AND HAVE WELL WATER.MY HOME IS 1100 SQ.FT,AND I LIVE ALONE.WHAT ARE WE THAT LIVE ON A SMALL FIXED INCOME SUPPOSE TO DO.IM 81 YEARS OLD AND LIVE ON A SMALL FIXED INCOME.WHOS GOING TO HIRE AN 81 YEAR OLD LADY FOR EXTRA INCOME TO PAY MY ELECTRIC BILL.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 6:46 PM Diane wilson trouble shooter tv 11 said...

We need several people to send Diane Wilson trouble shooter for TV 11 as many complaints as possible.We have already sent a few complaints to her.Please send more so maybe she will start an investigation as to why our electric bills are so high.She loves a good fight and I think this would be a good job for her.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 6:37 PM single workin mom said...

I work every day to support my son and I.In dec.my bill wa 289.67 then Jan.it went up to 486.34 the Feb.bill was 593.22.This makes no sense to me.I keep my heat on 60 and I never cook at home.My mom cooks for us every nite and picks up my son from school everyday.So no one is at my house from 6;30am until 9pm at nite.We come home take our showers and go to bed.On the weekends we are home but we conserve in every way possible.I have a dead beat ex husband who doesnt pay child and I have no choice but work all I can to support my son.With high electric bills like this I cant save a dime for my son college funds.Give us a break Wilson Energy.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 5:25 PM Leora Hines said...

My utility was very high compared to the previous months.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 4:45 PM Robbed Family said...

I bought land and built a house a block away from Progress Energy had I known I was going to be robbed every month from Wilson Energy, I wouldn't have bought land where Wilson has to serve me. The sad thing is that Wilson Energy is taking money away from my childrens college and their future. We are having a hard time with Gas, Grocies, Insurance, just to afford everyday things in life. The sad thing is that Wilson Energy has us right where they want us, we can complain and Fuss all day, but if you don't pay all they do is cut your power off. So Just Pray about it " Bad things will happen to the ones that take away from the good.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 3:57 PM Ryan said...

I live in a 1000 sq. ft. house that was built in 2007. I was averaging around $170 to $180 (31 day cycle) but then when Jan's bill came it shot up to $380! Thats $200 more for three more days on my usual billing cycle, totaling 34 days! My KW hrs. were avg around the 700 to 800 range and this Jan bill was in 2200s!!! How can this be when I havent changed a thing with my thermastat or electricity usage on those previous months!? My Feb bill is $308!! This is with a change in thermastat settings! This is utterly ridiculous! I called too complain about my utility bill and dealt with a rude lady that acted like I was too dumb too read a meter! How appauling!

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 3:56 PM curtis said...

My old HVAC went out on 17 december 2009. I had a
new 15 SEER installed on 18 December 2009 for a
grand total of $4200.00. In january 2010, i got
the highest utility bill i have ever had in the
31 years i have lived in this 1500 sf home. There
just is no justice..HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 3:52 PM cant belive it said...

Will someone please tell me what's going on with utilities? My bill last month was over $500.triple the usual bill. I droped my thermostat to 64 thinkning it would lower my bill. But I got my bill on Friday and it was higher than last month almost $600.Someone please explain to me-it's been 52 days in this year so far but I've been billed for 70 days of utility usage? Something has to be done, before the population starts to decrease.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 3:31 PM James McCormick said...

The electrical rates here in the Wilson area are outrageously high, and the service we receive for the amount of money we pay for electrical service is tatamount to highway robbery.It is a shame and pure disgrace that people in the twentieth century must live in the dark before being shown the light of how the politics of local government can hi-jack its citizens to fill their gluttonous pockets at the expense of poor people sitting in the dark trying to eat dinner by unwanted "candle light". Good show Wilson, an "All American City" LOL.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 2:37 PM GOOD TIME said...

I WAS 24 YRS OLD WHEN THE DEBT WAS STARTED. I WILL BE 69 YRS OLD WHEN IT IS PAID OFF, IF IT'S PAID WHEN THEY SAY IT WILL BE. THEY MUST HAVE PUT IT ON A CREDIT CARD.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 2:37 PM Big H said...

IT IS ASTRONOMICAL!

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 2:36 PM Still high even when conserving said...

My January bill was $291.00 and my February bill is $245.oo. Jan-33 day cycle and Feb- 32 day cycle. Yes, I did cut back. Usually my bill in the winter runs about $90-$150. What concerns me most is the fact that people are cutting back and the bill is still high. Something sinister is going on. We deserve answers and solutions.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 12:59 PM Vanessa said...

Our light bill too high this month. I have been living outside of the city for 6yrs and NEVER had a light bill so high. Almost $500.00. We always keep our thermos at 70 degrees. Never has it been a $500.00 light bill. I personally think that everyones light bill was to high.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 12:50 PM dixie belle said...

10/30 102.77
11/30 107.20
12/30 96.01
1/29 161.98
2/26 125.99
My house is less than 1000 sq feet and I keep the thermostat on 60 degrees most of the time, sometimes lower.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 12:50 PM Dawn B. Hodges said...

We live in Nash county and have Progress Energy as our power company. We have not had a utility bill over $250 during the cold weather. I could understand COW being a little higher due to other included cost(water, trash, sewage) but 40% higher is ridiculous even for Wilson. We want to move back to Wilson but are afraid of the high utility bills. It is hard for me to believe that there is nothing that can be done.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 12:38 PM Patricia O'Steen said...

My bill was extremely high. Even though it was cold. I keep my thermostat on 65 and it was still $600.00. With bills this high people won't be able to stay in there homes. Our utility bills are higher than many peoples rent.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 12:17 PM Kristi Hocutt said...

The State's Attorney General can not do ANYTHING! I have already called. Wilson is a Muncipality and the only people that can fix this is the Mayor and the City Council. Call for yourself and see!

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 11:57 AM Ann Barnes said...

The rates are definitely too high. Rates need to be analyzed to see if they can be lowered and still maintain the ability to "do business." There must be some "wiggle room" in these rates, and effort must be made to find it!

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 11:20 AM linwood davis said...

IT DONT MAKE NO SENSE how high the bill is when you got more bills to pay and soon you have to pay another one. how can i feed my kids this month and next. I have to worry about getting to work.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 11:03 AM said...

Our utility bill was almost $800 for two months in a row. It is a real struggle for all of us who live in the city. No one can upgrade to a larger home due to the high cost of electricity. Meeting the mortgage is not necessarily the problem...it is the utility bill. This must be affecting the sale of real estate.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 10:26 AM CASSONDRA HINES said...

MY RATES WERE TO HIGH AND THEN WAS CHARGED A LATE FEE.THERE NEEDS TO BE SOMETHING DONE ABOUT THIS.I FEEL LIKE I PAYED MY NEIGHBOR BILL TOO.MY BILL USELY RUNS ABOUT TWO HUNDRED THEN JUMPED TO FIVE HUNDRED OR MORE!

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 10:21 AM high rates said...

I dont understand the rates are extremely high for a single person in 3 bedroom home who work out of town and is gone 3 days out of the week its ridiculous to receive a utility bill for $400 for the last 3 months. I have complained talked to representatives only to be told that my consumption is high and there is nothing to be done about that it ridiculous then you get extentions to try and pay these high bills and they dont give you time to pay them someone need to be contacted regarding this

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 9:28 AM conerned said...

the entire city council shoud resign ad resign now if they cannot change this electric situation-also seems strange that bills keep going up even when people cut back drastically.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 9:10 AM crazy said...

my utility bill for last month was $600 dls and the one for this month was $780 this is crazy i have live in this house for 7 years and never seen a bill like this somebody needs to help us if we can help people from other countrys why can we get help in our own country HELP HELP HELP my utility bill is now more than my mortgage.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 8:50 AM Daryl Barber said...

folks lets get real. Im as big an advocate for our cause as anyone but first of all Bruce does not get paid for being chairman of Electricities. for what ever reason, i suspect all the bad pr and unpleasantness in the past, the board vote against paying the 1500 per month chairman pay and 1000 per month for other board members pay for the municipal representatives. secondly the attorney general and the state utilities commission have stated that they have absolutely no control over NCEMPA, Electricities and the municipal city councils unless the general assembly changes the law. they have no say so under present law. I have been guilty in the past of jumping the gun and making inaccurate remarks based on older info. keep up to date on the facebook site Tired of paying HIGH utility bills in Eastern NC! (Electricities/NCEMPA)
and discussion board and read , if you can find the time , all the info we have available and you can become very educated on the issue, something the powers that be dont particularly care for.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 8:45 AM m brown said...

495dollars It was to hign. I am going to have a hard time paying it.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 7:39 AM you get real said...

RE: be real .. not dramatic
You need to get real. These light bills in Wilson are a dramatic jump and that is why people are reacting as such. You can put all the pretty figures down on paper and make it look as if the rates aren't a big jump, yet when the citizens of Wilson receive their light bills the figures are totally different. The light bills we are receiving are very much REAL and DRAMATIC also, and that demands real and dramatic actions!!!! You are just like all the other leaders of this city. You are trying to make it look good on paper, but it just don't FLUSH!!!

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 7:09 AM Unreal said...

To EVERYONE who keeps asking the same things. First the Attorney General's office HAS been contacted and cannot do anything according to the NC General Statutes. Have any of you joined, "Tired of paying HIGH utility bills in Eastern NC" on Facebook? You will get info and answers there as well as what we are doing and what you can do. We need your help. Join and check out the "discussion board" to learn. Also, are any of you going to the meeting on Thursday, February 25th at 6pm to be at the Contending the Faith Church down by the Reid St. Rec Center to talk and listen to councilman Pitt?

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 4:45 AM KP said...

They are too high!!!

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 10:24 PM Jeanne Cuddington said...

Our light bill is normally no higher than 150.00 every month, and this past time it went up to 439.00, we haven't used anymore heat than normal, our house is completely energy efficient and my husband and I just spent alot of money on rennovations to make our home even more energy efficent, so how is it that there are no leaks, no cracks or sepping airways and yet our bill tripled??? The City of Wilson is making sure their pockets stay full while the rest of us are looking for ways to come up with the money to pay our electric bill.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 9:42 PM yanno.. said...

Yanno.. Why can't we renegotiate our contract? A lot of the people who have fallen on hard times of late have had to..Payment plans are revamped daily. Why not the City's debt?
Add ten years and give us a break.
Mr.'conflict-of-interest' Rose wouldn't like that. Might cut into his checks.

Monday, February 22, 2010 at 9:16 PM Monopolistic price gouging. said...

The State Attorney General needs to be contacted immediately. An investigation is warranted.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 8:49 PM Unreal said...

COUNCILMAN BILL PITT has invited as many Wilson citizens that can attend a meeting on Thursday, February 25th at 6pm to be at the Contending the Faith Church down by the Reid St. Rec Center. He is going to answer as many questions as possible and try to HELP us get our energy bills lowered. Come show your support, and find out what we can do to help HIM be an effective voice on the City Council. I know one thing for sure. WE are all in this together. It does NOT matter our race or financial background. WE ARE THE PEOPLE! Please be there!!!

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 8:35 PM be real .. not dramatic said...

Wilson electric rate is $0.1438 per kwh.
Progress Energy has a winter/summer rate that is:
Nov-Jun $0.0957 per kwh (winter)
Jul-Oct $0.1057 per kwh (summer)
If you used 1000 of Wilson's kwh the cost would be about $144.
If you used 1000 of Progress Energy's "winter" kwh the cost would be about $96 and it would be about $106 in the "summer" months.
If your Wilson bill was $800 then if you were on Progress Energy you would be paying $532 in the winter and $588 in the summer. (Sorry I missed it on my earlier post when I said about $600 on Progress... I was off a bit)
Now... is that a significant difference... yes it is. But it is not as big a differential as some of the posters here seem to think.
These are the rates as of Feb 2010.
:)

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 7:18 PM Taking this to 60 Minutes said...

I dont understand how I turned my heat down and my Light Bill went up $300. We know u are tampering with the Meters and if we have to take this on the news...60 minutes has already said they would do a story on this. I dont think Negative Publicity is what u want for Wilson

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 7:16 PM Electricities mission of purpose said...

Today Electricities continues to serve NC Public Power Communities through a wide range of services. /
does their wide range of services include expensive sexual harassment lawsuit settlements. expensive and lavish annual meetings., waste, fraud and mismanagement, high paid executives , staff and lobbyists who lobby for what we dont know. A brothel provides a wide range of similar services at a much cheaper rate.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 6:06 PM SALLY said...

I THINK U PEOPLE ARE CRAZY CHECK THE THE 7.25 HOUR PAY IN WILSON,BILL MORE THAN YOUR RENT

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 5:48 PM We're smarter than you think said...

TO: city of wilson turn from your wicked ways
I 100% agree with you about them controlling the meters. I have said that for the past few years. They charge 15kwh per hour and they are tampering with the meters, which is a criminal offense in itself. I cut my heat back almost 5 degrees last month and the bill was for 3 less days, yet my light bill went up almost $250.00 dollars. This is a small and poor city, yet our leaders seem to think not!!!! New offices, new vehicles, renovations on the old city hall and the city is supposed to be broke. Give me a break!!!!

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 5:27 PM Jose Camacho said...

yes is high bery high, the last two paymen's I pay more of $300.00 I try save but I can't.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 5:26 PM John Farmer said...

My Utility Bill thats due on the 21 Of Feb was $741.68. My bill before that was only $300's. Now You tell that You don't think that is too high.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 4:40 PM Elm City Resident said...

Progress Energy charges me 9.57 cents per kilowatt hour. My Progress Energy Bills totaled $1,798.48 for the entire year of 2009 . Elm City Water, Sewer, Garbage, and Recycling Bills total $903.21 in 2009. In 2008, they totaled $1,459.62 and 774.96 respectively which reflects the good fortune of mild weather and increased travel away from home. Please note that the Water and Sewer rate in Elm City is very high, almost double the Wilson rate due to infrastructure problems and the cost of upgrades. So, that's $2701.69 in combined utilities and fees for ALL of 2009, an average of $225.14 per month. In 2008, it was 2234.58 or 186.21 per month on average. My last Progress bill (34 days in billing cycle) was $244.09 and Elm City bill was $77.17 which is a $321.26 combined total. Adjusted for the high water and sewer, my last bill would be roughly $290 if I lived in Wilson and had Progress energy. It would be $443.31 if I had Wilson Energy and the meter was read correctly. But since I believe they are not it would be more like $600. I've had spring and fall electric bills from Progress as low as $68. I can look at the digital meter Progress has on my house and with 5 days left in this upcoming billing cycle and I can estimate my next Progress energy bill to be $20 more this month at around $265. My home is 1300 sq feet 3BD 2BTH ranch with vinyl siding and is over 30 years old with a 10 year old HVAC. EVERYTHING IS ELECTRIC (stove, dryer, water heater) and used everyday and often. We are a family of 4 with young children. Heat stays between 72 and 75 degrees from 6AM - 8AM and 6PM -11PM but is set between 65 and 68 degrees from 11PM - 6AM and from 8AM - 6PM. In the summer, I keep it between 72 and 78 degrees all day. Progress Energy rates me as a typical user in there system meaning I'm a average user. I refuse to live in a cold house in the winter and a hot house in the summer but I balance things between my families' comfort and being a wise energy user. During the winter, we wear sweat pants with socks and a long sleeved t-shirts to lounge around in the house. I have not weatherized the home. We sleep with down comforters, no electric blankets. The only improvements/adjustments I've completed in the last 2 years was changing all the light bulbs to compact florescent and installing low flow shower heads. Next, I'll install low flow toilets. Progress Energy has a free online energy audit that I used to determine that any "potential savings" from weatherization did not outweigh the cost to retrofit my home. The only thing it would really do is eliminate the few drafts or air leaks I have in my home. But, it would only save me $180 per year or $15 per month. So, to me personally President Obama's whole weatherization push is all HYPE. I would wager that the same is true for 50% of households in the US, primarily homes built after 1965. It would cost me at least $4500 (materials and labor) to get new windows, doors, insulation, etc. That means it would take me 25 years to recoup the investment and that's if utility rates stay flat which of course they won't. And on top of that, weatherization would not even add much value short term or long term to the home that I have owned less than 10 years. I plan to sell or rent out my home in the next 2 years. I can't trade up for a bigger more modern house in Elm City because there are little or no options inside the city limits where Progress Energy is the electricity provider. And with the moratorium on water and sewer, no new homes can be built in Elm City. So, I'm considering a move to rural parts of Johnston County and Wayne County bordering Wilson like some of my wife's relatives and family friends or to Eastern Wake County. That way I can stay close to Wilson but stick with Progress Energy because I refuse to deal with this nonsense the people of Wilson, Rocky Mount, Greenville, and other Eastern NC towns have to suffer. Wilsonians, you have another 15 to 20 years to deal with these high electric rates because that's how much time is left on the Electricities debt. Think of all the individual and family wealth lost during that time or since 1987 for that matter. The average household in West Wilson is paying at least $1,000 more per year in utilities than it should have to. That's $15,000 to $20,000 net income lost in 15 to 20 years. That's money that could be used to eliminate household debt, invest in college funds, increase tithing, donate to the needy or nonprofits, invest in home improvements or home-based businesses, or spent with local businesses. For these households, the city would be better off raising property taxes to equal that $1,000 lost on utilities and dropping the electric rate to match Progress Energy. At least then homeowners could write it off with the IRS if they itemize. And the drop in rates would stimulate economic development and residential growth. Wilson may not even have the 50,000 people on Census 2010 that elected official have coveted as if it's a magic number that will solve all the city's problems. Why? Because so many people are buying houses out in the rural parts of the county to eliminate city property taxes. They can then in turn use the tax savings towards paying high Wilson Energy bills. If I lived in Wilson, I would check my electric meter every day. I could not live with a $500 to $1000 utility bill. A 37 day billing cycle does not reflect the increased cost, KW/H usage. My last billing cycle from Progress was 34 days and yet I have never seen a bill over $270. I've experienced cold snaps the last decade including the most recent one but electricity has never cost me more that $7 per day. Utilities Director Fred Horne needs to save that ludicrous answer for some fools because the citizens of Wilson are not fools. A 10 degree drop in average daily temperatures does not equal an extra $8 per day in utilities cost. So for the last 4 week billing cycle you are telling me that Wilsonians have been paying $19 PER DAY for electricity while Progress Energy charged $6 to $7 per day during the same period??? Lord help small businesses in this county. The citizens and small businesses of this city and county deserve answers that are the TRUTH. We expect that from public officials and elected officials. Not some PR statement that's a lie to cover up the truth. City of Wilson Council members, it's time to wake up. $15 to $20 million a year in spending power is lost to area businesses because residential customers are using it to pay your high utility rates that you are using to pay off a debt for which you should have never taken such a risk. To finance and operate this 40 year nuclear power investment will cost Wilson citizens around $1 billion in debt financing and another $600 million to $800 million in operating cost past on to the consumer/citizens via high rates. Raleigh, Durham, Goldsboro, Fayetteville, Greensboro, and Winston-Salem made the wise choice in the 1970s to not join and invest in Electricities. And Elm City did so indirectly. Fayetteville is a non-electric member of electricities meaning it has a board member but buys directly from Progress Energy and did not invest/subsidize the Progress' nuclear plants. Fayetteville uses eight peak-shaving gas turbine generators with sophisticated cooling systems to create a combined thermal energy storage system that has reduced that city's reliance on Progress Energy particularly during the summer and winter months. Why hasn't Wilson done the same versus investing $28 million in Greenlight which is basically another public utility service???? Why did the 1st reactor at Shearon Harris cost $4 billion when Progress quoted $1 billion? Progress Energy is estimating that the next 2 reactors will cost $9 Billion to build or $4.5 billion a piece (which is only 12% more than the cost of the first reactor over 25 years later). I hope electricities does not invest in and subsidize these 2 new reactors because if it's like the 1987 reactor, the cost will quadruple to $23 Billion. Wilson elected officals would mortgage the future of 3 generations of Wilsonians to help pay off that debt. Electricities members are basically subsidizing Progress Energy customers in North Carolina and have been since the 1980s agreement to invest in Shearon Harris and Brunswick nuclear plants. And the state of North Carolina's legislature facilitated that subsidy by changing the law. That is the bottom line Wilsonians. Even when Wilson's share of the nuclear plants is paid off it will still have to pay for the expense of maintaining the plants which will still keep rates relatively high at around 11 to 12 cents KwH down from 14 which is an improvement but still not competitive with Progress Energy's 9. Solution: Dissolve Electricities or modify it's mission. Either way, sell back every member city's stake in those nuclear power plants to Progress Energy with the state of North Carolina giving tax breaks to the corporation over 20 years and approving a rate hike statewide capped at 10.5 cents KwH to help offset the cost. Each city and town would retain ownership of its electric distribution system but would buy directly from Progress Energy like Fayetteville. Electric rates would then be equal statewide. With this solution, everyone wins with all of the state's citizens keeping a reasonable and equitable electric rate, Electricities and its members get bailed out and stop subsidizing Progress Energy customers, the cities and town save billions in debt financing that will free of personal/household wealth that can help stimulate local economies, and Progress Energy gains full ownership of the nuclear plants while staying profitable and keeping its shareholders happy. The state helped these cities get in the mess and it should help get them out of it!!!!

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 2:40 PM tee said...

I do believe the rates are outragious. i do everything possible to conserve energy ie, energy efficient light bulbs, turning off and unplugging appliances, lights, tvs when not it use, etc. But the rates are still high. I have heard people comment that their light bills are $500, $800 and even $1500 for small homes ( there is even a rumor that Bill's BBQ was $27,000 for 1 month). I do believe that something needs to be done to see the trend of the rates. Also, on Thurs, I witnessed at least 8-10 City of Wilson employees standing around 1 site ( on the corner of Grove St and Corbett AVe) while 1 person was in the bulldozer, 1 person near the hole and the other just standing around looking. Now that is also a waste of our city money.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 2:09 PM Kristi Hocutt said...

To Be Real not dramatic...
It is Called $.15 cents a KWH!

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 11:00 AM phyllis vittorini said...

my utility bill was 760.00 this month. That is outragious. I lived in ny for years and never did I have a bill like that. When you call to ask about your bill those girls in the office are about the rudest people I have met so far. Something needs to be done or wilson is never going to grow into the city it should be. the utility company is forcing people to move or live in the dark. there should be a law against shutting lights on elderly and children. I hope the big wigs are comfortable in there fancy warm houses while we the poor working class freeze.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 10:54 AM Don't be silly said...

Who would want a private company selling us our utilities? Obviously the government does a better job at running things than the private sector. Since this public utility thing is working so well lets let them have healthcare too.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 10:37 AM will you attend said...

HOW MANY OF YOU WILL ATTEND THE MARCH IN FRONT OF THE COURT HOUSE SATURDAY FEB.27TH AT 11AM.WE HAVE CONTACTED A LOCAL TV STATION FOR SUPPORT.JUST NEED TO KNOW WE HAVE THE PEOPLE TP ATTEND.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 8:54 AM it's not drama said...

People have been posting kwh prices. Ours are two high.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 8:29 AM Gotta high bill too said...

My utility bill doubled from the normal in jan and feb... but hey atleast my Greenlight service is affordable lol

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 5:31 AM Deborah Smith said...

The rates are riduculous in Wilson. I don't cook, don't have a washer/dryer and work 2 jobs so I'm never at home and my bill is still over $500. I wish there was a variety of services for electricity like there is for cellular service because Wilson Energy would be the very last choice for me.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 3:23 AM To be real..not dramatic said...

I appreciate your attempt at logic into this forum, however your logic doesn't hold water. The kwh rate that Progress Energy charges their direct customers in almost half of what Wilson Energy charges (.08 vs. .15). The in-climate weather didn't just target Wilson this past month, it affected the entire state/region. So logically, their customers usage would increase at the same proportion as ours, unless they have a proprietary heating system that's not available in Wilson. Therefore a $800 bill here, would "logically" be $400 for Progress Energy customers. It's not a conspiracy, it's basically a profit center (to the tune of $11.4 million last year), known as Wilson Energy. Think about it.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 12:50 AM fred campbell said...

they are much too high even the ones trying to conserve energy's bills are getting higher

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 11:51 PM Bridget said...

I just found out that the utility rates in Wilson are tied with New Jersey for the 6th highest in the country. We pay just 1 cent less per kilowatt than Alaska. Only Conn, Mass, New Hamp, New York, Hawaii, and Alaska pay a higher per kilowatt than we do. What is wrong here? High unemployment, high power bills, and high taxes? I'll be at the rally on Saturday and will contact every media outlet that will listen.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 10:58 PM be real .. not dramatic said...

doesn't anyone here realize that people all across the state have experienced the same thing with bills dramatically increasing the past couple of months? This goes for Progress Energy, Duke, Dominion and all of the electric coops. Granted, Wilson's rates are higher than the aforementioned utility companies but not as much as the posters here would have you to believe. Lets say you had an electric bill with Wilson that was say $800 ... if you had been on Progress Energy rates your bill would probably still have been around $600 or so. The next time you want to compare your "$1000 Wilson bill to your cousins $200 Progress Energy for the same size house".... compare the kwh used. Just comparing dollars does not tell the whole story. But wow.. if there is really a "conspiracy" going on it must involve every public, investor owned and rural coop throughout the state!! Be that was hard to coordinate!!!
And I do apologize for trying to inject logic into an emotionally driven subject. Am sure I will be chastised for it. :)

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 10:49 PM "T" said...

I watched the City Council meeting on television about the high utility bills in Wilson and I noticed that some of the council members were really rude and insensitive. This is serious and is no laughing matter. Mr. Pitt was the only one on the board that really showed he cared and was concerned about the crisis we are in. And we are in a crisis. Wilson is in a state of emergency with the high utility bills.
Several members talked about their bill being high and they were afraid to open their bill when it came and that they paid the same rates that we pay. That's all good and dandy but we are the ones that are probably paying their salary and utility bills. So they're not worried.
When it all said and done, and investigated as it will be-- I do believe that someone is going to be held accountable and could face some criminal charges and jail time.

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 10:36 PM Janie said...

Well, I just got my bill today, after a doubling bill in January. The bill decreased over $250, and in checking it further - it was for only 24 days. Now last month was for 37 days. Now I wonder how many days will be on next month's bill??? The City needs to be consistent and have the same number of days on each bill....

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 8:52 PM alt said...

I grew up hearing, "You can't fight City Hall". But hey...I love this "squeaky wheel" and am up for the fight. My EPP is $550 that's hateful enough and my January Bill was almost $1000!! I'll feel this in September.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 7:58 PM Wilson Energy Detainee said...

I have a home and an office in Wilson and am considering moving one or both out of reach of Wilson Energy. It feels like a mafia mentality, record profits by extorting your neighbor! We as customers and residents have no recourse or advocate to speak and work on our behalf, if you call you get the runaround, but are still expected to pay the bill or face disconnection.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 7:54 PM Sandy said...

Our bill was $497.00, last month it was only $286.00. We keep our heat on 65 day and night. Wilson's rates are ridiculous. How can people continue to pay a utility bill that exceeds their rent/mortgage payments, and then get charged a $10.00 late fee if they cant pay the bill on time!

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 7:45 PM Wilson Energy Hostage said...

My bill was over $600 dollars, I switched from gas heat at my old house to electric at my current house, and received double the utility bills with a hvac unit 14 years newer and twice as efficient. Natural gas is supposed to be more right? What happened? Who is responsibe? Who can we hold accountable? Why cant we have a choice of electric providers? Why are the other city services competitively priced? Why are we the ones without power?

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 6:56 PM i had my house weatherized a few months back said...

insulation under the floor joists,twice as much extra blow in insulation in the attic sealing off the uninsulated portion of my attic over my carport. weatherstripping and caulking and sealing all cracks, a sty foam insulated casing around my attic stairway to seal off any leaks there. I heat with natural gas and my hot water heater is natural gas. i get all my utilities thru the city of Wilson. i have a 3 br /2bath brick home about forty years old around 1645 square feet. My last bill was for 39 days. it was for 383 dollars including water, sewer, garbage pickup, wastewaterfee, stormwater fee and taxes. I was very satisfied with my bill. i was amazed how much difference the extra insulation and weatherizing made in my bill. when i opened the bill and first glanced and saw it was for 39 days i was almost scared to look at it. i expected it to be in the 550 to 650 range or better. the month before for 28 days it was 265. I still say the Kilowatt per hour is way too high in Wilson and the natural gas rate had been cut alot while electric rates had skyrocketed. that is getting ready to change as natural gas rates have gone up substantially the last 4-6 weeks due to the intense and prolonged cold weather nationwide and especially in the north. Folks if you can afford it or if you cant apply to some of the low income weatherization options available it really makes a difference in your heating bill. i hope next summer it makes as big a difference in my air conditioning bill. i keep my heat at 65at night and 68 during the day. have a computerized thermostat that adjust temp auto at night and in the morning.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 5:14 PM wilson stinks!! said...

to "when it is snowy and icy"
i was home those days of snow and ice, i never saw anyone out reading meters! think of another excuse! i heard or so i was told by my mother that wilson will estimate [or what i like to call geusstamate] your bill. my mother was moved out of her house for month and the bill for that month; that no one was there, was $900, and the csr at wilson said "well that is what it was last year at this time." now someone tell me what last year has to do with this year???

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 4:43 PM city of wilson turn from your wicked ways said...

I have had problems with the bill for over 12 years. I'm a single mom and no one was in my home from 7:30am-5pm and my bill and always $250-400. For two years I used a kerosene heater & when I called and questioned why my bill was so high I was told that I used the amt the year before. It got to a point that I could stop by home on my lunch break & I would look at my meter & it was running as if I was connected to everybody in town. When I got my bill I called & questioned the amt & told them what I had observed. I have come to the conclusion that they have controll of our meters, so don't waste your money having them to come & check it because the amt used is going to match, they made sure of that. To say they don't is to say they can't turn our air/heat & appliances on/off with their energy efficiency program they have. It is robbery. To answer why our city is going down, the ones in charge are stealing from the poor & they are getting rich. I've had to give them over $1200 for the past few years in Sept for a settlement amt that I know I didn't use & it is a struggle. They know we don't want to be in the dark especially with our children & know we will do all we can to pay it. City Head this has to change.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 4:20 PM IJ said...

SOMEONE SAID WE SHOULD WRITE 5 ON YOUR SIDE, THIS IS HOW, TYPE IN WRAL, WHEN ON HOME PAGE, CLICK 5 ON YOUR SIDE, THEN UNDER THE PICTURE OF MONICA LALIBERTE IT SAYS, CLICK HERE TO FILE A CONSUMER COMPLAINT. NOW JUST SAY THE SAME THINGS YOU ARE SAYING NOW PLEASE!!!!!! YOUR WORDS WILL GO FURTHER IF IT GETS OUT OF WILSON!!!! IF YOU AGREE DO IT!!!!!!BE HEARD!!! THANK YOU

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 4:03 PM IJ said...

EVERYONE THAT HAS TAKEN TIME TO COMMENT ON THIS WEB SITE NEEDS TO, MUST, SEND YOUR WORDS TO OUR CONGRESSMAN G.K.BUTTERFEILD. GOOGLE G.K.BUTTERFEILD. ONCE YOU GET TO HIS HOME PAGE CLICK THE BOX THAT SAYS WRITE G.K.BUTTERFEILD. LOAD IT UP, HE WILL HAVE TO TAKE NOTICE. WE ARE ONLY GREAT IN NUMBERS. DON'T THINK TYPE.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 3:47 PM True colors said...

James M Johnson III uncalled for comment to Mr Barber after his public remarks just proves what an asinine arrogant little cuss he is and the disdain he has for public speakers. he still hasn't apologized to the public for his remarks that most public commentators are a BUNCH OF ANGRY STUPID PEOPLE. Maybe his district will finally come to their senses and turn out in numbers next November enough to rid us of this horses petoot.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 3:01 PM Margaret said...

I understand that Wilson may be in debt from years back, seems everyone is now days, but we did not put Wilson county in debt and we vote for people that are supposed to care about their community and what will happen to it in the future. I would be curious to know what the head direct of the City of Wilson and the person in charge at Wilson Energy - how much did their bills increase in the last 6 months? Anyone want volunteer that information and publish that in the wilson daily times??

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 2:49 PM shut up and take it. said...

you will be forgot all about it by election day and certainly by next november when the mayor, ms Burton, AP and Johnson III will be up for reelection and you will not bother to vote and put those same idiots who do this to you and condone it right back in their elected position. everyone was up at arms about the property tax revaluation last year but you watch. with the exception of the longtime retires on the county commission you will reelect the same idiots again. and just think Obie wan Konobie Cousin sid Boyette will probably be the new chairman. more sweetheart deals for his big donors and cronies. the one who got the deal on the miller road building just bought the old Springfield School building from the county for pennies on the dollar like he did the Miller road building.maybe he can give them a lease purchase back on it

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 2:36 PM cynthia hardison said...

too high

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 1:23 PM disgruntled Wilson Energy Customer said...

Our power bill this month was $614. We live in a 2200 sq. ft. house and our heat is set on 63 degrees 80% of the time. The rest of the time it is set on 65 degrees. There is no way the rates are fair and why is it that the billing cycles are over 30 days in length in the coldest part of the year. I doubt its from lack of staff since the rest of the year we don't get bills for 34-39 days.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 11:11 AM Kim said...

The utility cost in Wilson is outrageous. What do low income families and the elderly do when there utility bill is fluctuating like a 30 year ARM?

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 10:42 AM Big Kev said...

We all need to make ourselves heard about these unnessarily high bills. To everyone let's all call 5 on your side and ask for them to exspose these crooks in office. It's obvious that is the only way to get their attention around here.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 10:41 AM Unreal said...

To everyone who asks if there is something we can do. I beg of you...join "Tired of paying HIGH utility bills in Eastern NC! on facebook. The main problem is the middleman, ElectriCities and you can learn so much info on our discussion board that will blow your mind. Also, what we are doing about it and yes, council has a huge roll they play in this. There are a lot of great ideas here but we need to all work together and you can join us here to make this happen. Thank you!!!

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 10:31 AM jeff parrish said...

our bill just keeps going up every month. if it keeps on i don't see how people can pay there bill. what are we doin 'payin all the light bills of people that can't pay there on bill.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 10:27 AM Corruption said...

File complaints with WRAL and with the State Attorney office. Lets get some media attention on our corrupt officials. Enough is enough. I will no longer choose between food and lights. My light bill is more than my rent and food consumption combined. That's with the thermostat on 65 and nobody is home from 8am to 6pm in my house. We were gone for 2 weekends and still our bill jumped.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 10:27 AM said...

That is a ridiculous question. The electorate of Wilson has been getting gouged by this utility for years (Wilson Energy claims they are trying to pay down debt from '24 years' ago??!) It's truly unethical that on the coldest month of the year, my electric utility bills me for 36 DAYS of useage and claims to be trying to catch up on billing shortages during the holidays! How much is the salary of that new Director recently installed?? Yes, let's march and BE HEARD!

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 10:21 AM Business owners said...

The business owners and those that own vacant rental properties need to speak up and protest as well about this astronomical light bills. We must band together to get the debt retired and the rates lowered. People are struggling. Does anybody care? Does city council care? Does the mayor care? They all talk about how they want the city of Wilson to experience growth. How can the city prosper with these outrageous rates?

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 8:30 AM CRONYISM said...

If the City is broke why are they investing millions and millions in a high risk venture such as Greenlight and funding non profits, like Preservation of Wilson and the Business Incubator etc.? Why does the city manager need two assistants and why does he need a $500.00 per month car allowance? Why is the mayor on the board of ElectriCities? To fight for the people?? HA! The City was paying the Arts Council $100,000 a year too. End all the Cronyism in this City before it's too late.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 7:57 AM Very concerned citizen said...

It is utterly ridiculus how high the utility bills are. Wilson has one of the highest unemployment rates in NC and your unemployment check doesn't cover nearly what your once paycheck did and this is how they treat us. They want to put us on payment plans, for what, when we can't pay what we already have. I didn't use my heat in my home in December because we have a heat pump, rather, I chose to use my fireplace which is services by Dean's Oil and my bill was more than doubled at over $450.00. For January it was still high. Had the meter reread and was charged an extra $5.00 and they think they are helping, bull.......

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 7:16 AM jOIN US ON SATURDAY fEB.27TH said...

WHY DONT WE MEET IN FRONT OF THE COURTHOUSE ON NASH STREET TO PROTEST OUR HIGH ELECTRIC BILLS.PLEASE JOIN US AT 11AM FEB.27TH TO PUT A STOP TO THESE HIGH BILLS.DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT WE HAVE TO DO TO FORM THIS MEETING.ANY PERMITS WE NEED TO GET.THIS IS ALL NEW TO US BUT WE ARE GOING TO FIND A WAY TO MAKE THIS WORK.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 2:10 AM Let make a difference in Wilson said...

As a home owner in Wilson I'm struggling to pay my other bills on time just so I can pay my electric bills.We need to group together and have a march right down the middle of Nash St.We need to do this so the greedy pocket stuffers of Wilson can see we mean business.Maybe we can invite tv 5 to film this event.Lets set a date and anyone wanting to march with us can join i.This is a start and maybe it will take us somewhere.Lets all meet at the courthouse and see what we can do about these high bills.All we need is a date to meet.Is anyone else going to join us?How about Saturday Feb.27th.Hope to see you there.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 12:38 AM Reply to Pretty Eyes said...

IT has nothing to do with east side west side or any where you live.My nephew has a home on the east side and he works full time and attends school in Greenville all week.He comes home on the weekend only and his bill was $624.00 this month,I live north east side of Wilson and we sit in the dark all the time and do all we can to cut back and my bill has been $506.00 December,$822.00 January and theres just no way this can be right.I have a neighbor on both sides of me one has a $1800.00 light bill and the other family had a $1100.00 bill.How can anyone pay these bills.My husband is 100% disabled and we live on a fixed income.Theres no where to get extra money for our light bill.We chose to not buy groceries this month and dropped a few medications in order to pay this bill.People are having to make desperate decisions no days to pay for high utility bills. Wilso residents need to get together and protest these high bills.Our property taxes are out of this world also.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 12:30 AM SHIRLEY said...

IT IS UN HEARD OF FOR THE COST TO JUMP SO HIGH IN ONE MONTH. SOMEONE IS POCKETING MONEY IN HIGH POSITIONS IN CITY HALL IN WILSON. NEED TO REVAMP/REPLACE ALL OF THE ENTIRE CITY LEADERS FROM THE TOP DOWN.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 12:14 AM JAMES ARNOLD said...

EXTREMELY TOO HIGH. YOU NEED TO BRING IN PROGRESSIVE ELECTRIC. MUCH CHEAPER AND VERY RELIABLE. I LIVE 3/4 MILE FROM ELM CITY AND SHOULD NOT BE ON WILSON'S ELECTRIC.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 12:08 AM Crystal said...

When your utility bill is more than your mortgage, there is a problem....

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 11:08 PM Re: Elections said...

We need to get rid of all the incumbents at all levels. It's not just utilites. It's taxes, education, corruption. Get rid of the good ole boys at every level.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 10:22 PM irbjones@gmail said...

WE all need to stand up and say I'M FED UP AND NOT GOING TO TAKE THIS ANY MORE! These increases are not new. This has been happening for years. We now need this paper to start a patition. Wilson co. has been TELLING everyone to support OUR TOWN, how can we when OUR electric company is taking the food out of our childerens mouthes,and keeping us from supporting our local businesses. The way things are going, this will be a ghost town, and WHO, WHO wil be to BLAME....WILSON ENERGY, WILSON ENERGY, WILSON ENERGY. MY USAGE DOUBLED IN A 32 DAY PERIOD,IMPOSIBLE WHEN I HAVE BEEN OUT OF TOWN FOR 9 OF THOSE 32 DAYS. FROM 290 TO 561. ANYONE THAT IS TRING TO MAKE SENCE OF THESE STRONG ARM TACTICS SHOULD be made to PAY THESE incredible BILLS.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 9:57 PM Brenda said...

It is ridiculous how the city of wilson is ripping people off with those high utility bills. My mother is on a fixed income and it has come to a point where a person can't pay other bills or eat because they have to pay the utilities. It is ridiculous.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 9:55 PM Anonymous said...

My utilitiy bill is $575, which is rediculous! My thermostat has been set on 71 for the last 3-4 months untouched. The City is on the sly ripping stealing money from the citizens of Wilson to pay for their rediculous debt, not to mention this huge Green light infrastructure. My bill last month was $535. My light bill has never been this high and it keeps going up each year higher than it was the year before.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 9:54 PM FED UP!! said...

My bill doubled and we use gas to heat with. A friend of ours had a bill of $600 and he lives in a trailer - come on City of Wilson, get with it, times are tough and this is your answer - increase the electric bills.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 9:49 PM Laura said...

Vote out all incumbents starting with the mayor, and then those selfish, inconsiderate city council members. Wilson needs a change in leadership, so people please get out and vote when time comes to elect city officials.

Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 9:14 PM Rae said...

We were away from home in December for a total of 9 days straight and our utility bill doubled (and no Christmas lights of an kind were used). The bill we got this month jumped between 100 and 200 dollars and this was with our thermostat lower, no cooking, washing no more than once a week, and no more excess usage of utilities. Is City Council going to listen to the people?

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 8:42 PM Sick said...

Ok people...this is the deal. The city bought into a company(without approval from taxpayers), then after they do this they put the burden on paying this back on us taxpayers. The bottom line is there is no way in heck anyone would buy into a company that was tied up in debt unless there was something in it for them. To top it off, the city leaders say that we are broke, yet they move into a new location and remodel the old buildings. They then go out and buy an entire fleet of new vehicles while being broke. While in the mean time the citizens are having to cut back, do without and sit in a artic home. Where I come from if you're broke you do without!!!! The only people I see doing without are the citizens of Wilson!!!!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 8:26 PM WParnell said...

Wilson was a great place to live but now I can't seem to say anything nice. People on disability can't afford to live here anymore. When your electric bill doubles you know something is wrong with the system.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 8:23 PM Parkerville said...

Just want to add I don't have plasma tv's on all of the day either,nor a big fridge or dishwasher
running.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 8:21 PM Parkerville said...

My rate is roughly 400 dollars a month for an
efficently designed heat pump and the room temperature set on 65f daytime and 55 f at night.
This for a modern 1200 sq ft Condo.
New York City is supposed to have the highest
electric rates in the USA , a relative states
that they do not have to pay as high as in Wilson based on the same Kilowatt hours we use.
Time for a change for Wilson.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 8:20 PM JJ said...

Our electric bill was $400. last month, and this month it was another $400. Usually it's about $200.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 8:10 PM aghhhhh!!!!! said...

We to Wilson Mall a few weeks back, very cold inside mall, stores had to keep their doors closed to keep the heat in their store, but guess what, it was HOT in the W.E. store front.
Matbe we should all go there to keep warm while we keep out heat set on 50.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 7:55 PM thinnant said...

In my house its just me between sleep and work I am active in the house 4-5 hrs a day only, I keep the thermistate between 65-68 degrees. Now my last three bills went from $89 to $250 to $280. Now the temperature dropped but that drop does not account for my bill tripling in a couple months!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 7:20 PM Tony Rivers said...

It is winter and I expected a higher bill with the cold weather that we are having - But I didn't expect my bill to double! The information I received in my bill about ways to reduce heating costs were very informative, but it seems to me that instead of using such expensive paper and printing, the Wilson Energy could have saved a ton of money and used that to help lower electricity rates. I had to cut back during this depression! Why can't they?

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 7:14 PM sallyjane said...

I don't even use electric and my bill was still over 200 dollars. I use kerosine and I spend 60 dollars a week on that. So yes my electric bill was still to high.I don't even heat with it.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 6:47 PM floseh@bbnp.com said...

This is what's commonly known as gouging the people. Lets fight back. Any suggestions?

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 6:40 PM SHAE said...

I feel like im being cheated... My bill has always been between $80 & $90...
For the last 2 months it has been $270 and $300. I have a 2 bedroom house and we are hardly ever home. W both work 10-12 hours shifts... We have our heat on $69 and we brought a electric heater last month and the bill has not DECREASED!!
WE ARE PAYING TOO MUCH!!! I FEEL WE ARE BEING "RIPPED OFF"!!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 6:37 PM Deborah Joyner said...

I feel like the light company is charging way too much and taking advantage of the recession that we are in. But, I also realize that they have too pay higher for the current also. The real problem lies with congress.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 6:32 PM Billy Beau said...

If the Wilson Energy is not making a great profit then they need new management. The utility charges in Wilson are higher than even Wake County. The electric charge is finally paying a toll since this has been a very cold winter. I guess folks will just have to start living like it was a hundred years ago. Get the candles out and split plenty of wood, fore I believe Wilson Energy is going to keep going higher. Smaller dwelling and old fashion methods to heat and cool your self. Not much difference than the property tax structure. Sell your home and move out of Wilson it cost too much to live here.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 6:08 PM speight said...

36 days times 12 equal 432 and there only 365 days in a year your billing does not add up. As citizens of Wilson we need to get up a petition to bring in another energy company.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 6:05 PM Renee Holland said...

Our bill is $900.00. It went up over $400.00 more! I understand it was cold, but I am from Colorado where it gets below zero, and our utlility bill never reached over $200.00, not ever! I am moving back as soon as I can! I have kids to feed!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 5:54 PM why wilson ? said...

With the utility rates so high, high sales tax, gasoline tax & property tax why is wilson the way it is. It should be spotless, streets line with gold. where does all this money extorted from citizens go? Sorry I moved to wilson !!!!
Buy my house - I want out !

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 5:51 PM tired of this said...

got light bill today and again its 400.00! usually runs 200.00, 260.00 at its most. i actually cut back alot this month and it was still higher than last month!it should be a law how wilson energy is ripping people off!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 5:22 PM DIANE BOWMAN said...

WE JUST HAD AN AUDIT DONE ON OUR ELECTRICITY AND FOUND A FEW WAYS TO SAVE SOME MONEY BUT I STILL THINK THAT THE RATES ARE TOO HIGH!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 4:29 PM Mrs. B said...

This light bill situation is RIDICULOUS!! My light bill usually runs $220.00. Guess how much it is now?? $500.00 that is right I said $500.00. Did I mention my heating unit was broke for a few days and it still was high!!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 4:15 PM Pat said...

Utility rates in Wilson are horrible! And the excuses given by our elected officials are just as bad. I heat, cook and and have hot water by propane, yet my electric bills go up each month [live in the county]. We sit in the dark to watch tv....and have cut back every where we can. We bought new energy efficient appliances....yet the electric bill goes up and up. Something is very wrong with our utility rates in Wilson. I swear, the money is going into somebody's pocket. We need an outside audit and we need it last week!
I for one am with the mayor in Elizabeth City...get out of electricities NOW! Nothing but a bunch of leaches and crooks. And yes, I know there is a contract, but if EVERY town involved wanted out due to overpriced rates, maybe somebody on higher authority could do something to help the citizens? It is obvious the local elected officials are not wanting to help us......

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 3:44 PM Bruce Tingle said...

We had a large bill last month and we did all the right things---installed a new 16 seer heat pump and replaced all of the hvac ductwork in the attic along with R30 insulation over the rafters. While I know that heat pumps are not that efficient in very cold weather, we thought our gas pack on the first floor would save the day and it didn't--our bill was evenly split between gas and electic and I thought that was odd thinking that gas rates went down and it should be more efficient to heat in very cold weather than a heat pump.
Personally, it was sticker shock and if you would explain to the lay public that this has been one of the coldest winters on record, I think the public would be a little more educated and forgiving.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 3:29 PM Living in Wilson said...

This is the first month I have ever had to split up my utility bill into multiple payments. I get paid once a month, so it's pretty tough to have a bill that is over $120.00 higher than the month before. We are told to keep the thermostat set as low as possible and I do just that! I agree that the rates we are paying are way too high!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 3:21 PM CITY OF W. EMPLOYEE said...

TO LET GOD HANDLE IT: WE CITY EMPLOYEES DO NOT GET ANY SORT OF DISCOUNT WHAT SO EVER AND WE ALSO HAVE THE HIGH LIGHT BILLS TO so, WE ALL KNOW WHERE YOU ARE COMING FROM. I WISH SOMETHING COULD BE DONE but to be rest assured WE DO NOT GET ANYTHING, HELP or whatever from the city or by the city. WE ARE ALL IN THE SAME BOAT.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 3:19 PM concerned said...

Light bill for a two bedroom apartment 409.00. I think someone is getting rich at our exspense!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 3:18 PM JB said...

I live in a 1100 sq. foot townhouse, and my bill is usually around 120 a month. In January it was twice that, and I just got my February bill today and it went down by a whopping $10. It's ridiculous! I've also talked to people in other towns and they cannot believe it. I thought it was illegal to hold a monopoly! Hmmm...wonder what this is?

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 2:56 PM Susan Danielson said...

My electric bill was almost $500.00. I keep my heat on 68 and when people come over, they wrap up in blankets. I turn it down to 64 when I leave and sleep. But my electric bill was $500.00. Doesn't get more ridiculous than that.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 2:52 PM CYoak said...

I think the Wilson Times should do some investigating into how the profits that the city gets are used / diverted from the utility bills. It is a disgrace what the State of North Carolina allows cities to do. Remember slavery was once legal in NC, but that did not make it right; did it?

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 2:51 PM said...

IT'S BAD WHEN YOU CAN GO TO THE NEXT COUNTY AND PEOPLE WITH SMALLER HOUSES THAN YOU AND YOUR BILL IS TWICE WHAT THEIRS ARE. OVER THE LAST 2 MONTHS MY ELECTRIC BILL HAS BEEN $ 850.00,HOW CAN WE LIVE, I TELL YOU WE CAN'T. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE SOON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 2:43 PM TO WE ALL LIVE IN WILSON said...

Do you think that all the rhetoric about last month being an unusual cold period caused bills to double/triple? People with vacant houses with breakers turned off charged $400? It's not conspiracy theory. The cold and snow that hit Wilson, also hit Raleigh and Progress Energy and Duke Power customers throughout NC. I'm sure their bills increased, but double/triple? I don't think so. The problem is .15kwh as opposed to .08-.09 in the rest of the state. The problem is Wilson Energy's profit of $11.4 million in 09 and none of that used to assist people literally freezing in their homes and still getting $500+ bills. The problem is one city councilman Bill Pitt, basically being called out by the other members (as well as the mayor), for saying that the residents are hurting and we have to do something. You're worried about what the negative attention is going to do for business, it's not going to be an issue when there's a mass exodus of residents because of these extremely high rates. You should be concerned about the negative attention, God forbid, that will occur when one of our senior citizens or children are found with major health concerns due to unablility to keep the lights and heat on.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 2:32 PM Progress charges 1/3 less said...

Search 'utility rates in NC'. The state publishes rates (although ours are not there). You can see what the power companies are allowed to charge. Add up the rate plus the different adjustment factors.
I would love to see a breakdown of the Wilson Energy rate.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 2:13 PM Connie111 said...

The cost of energy in Wilson is totally OBSCENE! How are people supposed to live with unemployment skyrocketing & wages stagnating! Yet, the Utility Bills keep stripping the hard working people of Wilson of their hard earned money. Wilson almost always has some wind and lots of Sun. Wilson residents should go off the grid and tell these thieves ENOUGH! Default on that contract that ties the hands of the politicians, and have every home INDEPENDENT with their own means of creating safe renewable energy to supply their homes and businesses. ENOUGH! ENOUGH! ENOUGH!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 2:10 PM Terry said...

My Utility bill is too high, January was double more than December, alittle lower for February, and I get my electric from Wilson, water and sewage from Black Creek. also my home was just updated in 2008, make payments they say, they want to spread the misery out over the whole year

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:56 PM RWashington said...

As a new resident of the city and the state i can not believe the rates the city of Wilson is allowed to charge its customers for energy...I think customers should demand an audit of Wilson Energy , My Bill doubled and i was only offered an excuse this was a winter bill well the bill the month before was a winter bill too also i was advised that my Bill cycle for 12/5/09 was a 37 day bill with a normal bill billing for 31 days this caused a dramatic increase in my bill with NO notice at all ,until i opened my Bill to find it was double with no explanation and no way to Pay the extra amount due i was served a cutoff notice , with the fear of living in an all electric Apt with no heat i called for help , I was told i did not qualify for the budget plan because my bill did not exceed 500.00 WHAT! Yes i spoke to other customers that had Bills in excess of 700.00 a month that they too could not pay. I pray i make it through this winter with Heat and don't freeze to death here in Wilson where they charge customers unheard of amounts, where the unemployment rate is soaring beyond the national and taxes are the worst This by Far is not the place in The USA i want to reside i thought i did when my Family and i relocated here last summer Oh what a deception I thought the living was Easy Crime Rate was low never knew i couldn't afford It.... I was referred to an agency to assist with payment of my Bill ( a first for me) They did help but that money could have helped someone with a 700.00 bill if i were allowed to make arrangements , I will Be moving out of Wilson and will always Tell everyone about my experience living here I Wish the residents here the best and hopefully your citizens will Ban together and get something done about this issue Its the worst ...thanks for your time

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:54 PM Kim said...

Dear We All Live In Wilson.......
This goes beyond the cold snap and the snow. That is not enough to DOUBLE the bills. Rates of 14.36 cents per KWH is what is the issue. There aer other members of Electricities who do not pay this price per KWH that we pay. I spoke with Mayor McLean from Elizabeth City today. Their rates are almost a 1.3 centers per KWH less than ours. He is fighting to get his city out from under Electricities. We need to do the same. We need to band together to file a class action lawsuit with the Attorney Generals Office against Electricities to get out from under the contract or get the rates reduced.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:50 PM Pretty Eyes said...

It is a shame the way they are charing us for our light bills!!! My bill has jumped from 159.00 to 317 for Jan. and 309.00 for Feb. and I only had my Christmas lights on 3 x's! Im tired of paying for everyone elses bill during the Holidays....Dont get me wrong, I know some of the money helps out the elderly, but they have higher bills than me....I also think it has to do with the neighborhood you stay in, my mom's light bill was only 100+ and she stays on the east side of wilson, my dad stays 7min away from me on the west to nw sideof town and his bill was 969.00....we need to take it to someone else b/c i dont see the city council doing anything....we need to all go downtown and get in Bruce Rose's face and make him listen to us!!! I could go on and on, but Im not sure if my choice of words would be nice!!!!! :(

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:36 PM Doit said...

The bills are high. The City is paying there salary with the monies collected. They must be receiving good salaries.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:35 PM TO WE ALL LIVE IN WILSON said...

HAVE YOU NOT READ ALL OF THE COMMENTS WHERE PEOPLE HAVE FOUND OTHER WAYS OF HEATING THEIR HOMES? YET THEIR BILLS ARE STILL HIGH!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:24 PM Mark said...

I lived in Wilson for many years. I lived in a 1100 sq ft house and had utility bills that ran in the 300 to 450 range summer and winter. And before some of you progressive " idiots" start screaming, Yes, I kept my thermostat down in the winter, and high if not off in the summer. I now live in Raleigh in a 2200+ sq ft house. The highest utility bill that we have had was in the 150 range. That was in December when we had the Christmas lights running and a small electric heater running in a downstairs room that needed a boost. There is no way that the rates in Wilson should be so out of line with all of the other adjacent areas around Wilson. The people in Wilson need to start a grass roots effort to have an investigation started by the Attorneys General office to find out why. The elected officials of Wilson evidently are not capable of doing it on their own. They just rely on what the elecrtic co-op officials keep feeding them. It is time to find out the truth, one way or the other. The rates are crippling the future of Wilson.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:17 PM L.Carr said...

My utility bill for February is $355.00. I feel that this bill is extremely high and my utility bill has continued to be high since I've been in the Wilson area. This issue has been discussed with my family,friends and other residents in the Wilson area. We all are struggling with these utility bills. My brother's utility bill for February is over $400.00 and he has a very small home. One other thing I would like to question is the resources available for us to assist in these extremely high bills. On the numerous times that I sought help, no resources were able to help me. How can there be no help for a person that's barely existing from receiving unemployment benefits. I think unemployment puts the majority of us in a certain category.It helps, however, its not enough. Jobs are very few,and how do we pay for these utility bills.If we did have the finances, these bills would still be to the extreme. They are unreasonably unfair.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:09 PM Ms. D said...

I think it is ridiculous how the utility bills have gone up. How does the city expect people to pay these high bills? Some don't have jobs, and the people who are working have other obligations to meet also. Something needs to be done right away. How is the city going to correct this problem? It is a sad situation, and the citizens of Wilson of suffering.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:08 PM in wilson said...

WAY TO HIGH - UTILITIES BILLS NEED TO BE AFFORDABLE NOT SO HIGH THAT WE HAVE TO TAKE OUT A SMALL LOAN TO PAY IT, WHEN JUST NEXT DOOR IN LUCAMA THE BILLS WERE LIKE 150-200 RANGE - IT IS ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS, ANOTHER (CHEAPER) PROVIDER IN THE FUTURE WE ALL HOPE !! AND SHUT THOSE LIGHTS OFF AT GILLETTE FIELD AT NIGHT WHEN NOBODY IS THERE WOULD PROBABLY HELP

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:01 PM Wilma Bassett Bishop said...

I am a senior citizen on a fixed income. The last few months I have had to choose between food,meds or lights. I am on oxygen 24/7 and the light company here in wilson knows this, yet they still came out & cut off my lights, my daughter had to jump thru hoops to get it paid so they would reconnect them. I had only asked for them to work with me over a period of 4 weeks & I had made arrangements to be current but they would not do it. Told me make other living arrangements. Told them no family & my daughter was in Texas in training for a new job, they said you will have to do something lights will be cut off today. My mother does not drive and has no cell phone so I was in a panic knowing if they cut them off she could not call for help to 911 and it would and could have cost her her life. I was able to borrown the money from a friend but here again another month and not enough to go around. Her bill was $397.00 she only gets 1200.00 a month and her rent is 400.00. Leaves nothing for anything else. What makes me so angry is the fact they would cut her lights off knowing it would take her life. I am going to do everything I can to get her out of Wilson and will never return to that city ever. They are uncaring individuals. Yeah sure Salvation Army, Operation Care. You can only go there once a year!!!!!!! Anyway I hope someone reads this and makes our government realize when it is a matter of life and death there needs to be some sort of emergency resource or extended arrangements made for our senior citizens.
Thank you

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:53 PM Lakisha Pippen said...

The Utility bills are outragous here in wilson. I feel that the prices aren't reasonable. I feel they are just not valid usage for people here in wilson. I live in Raleigh and my bills were always reasonable. I had progress energy in the city of Raleigh. My household size has not change since then along with my family usage. When I moved back to wilson my bills drastically change. Its not right in no form or fashion. I feel that it's highway robbery

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:17 PM RENEE LITTLE said...

my utility bill exceeded my mortgage payment. we are barely home and do every thing we can to conserve energy. I think the rates are way too high. i have friends in neighboring counties that their houses are much bigger and they might get a 200.00 bill and to them that is a high one. we need some type of relief.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:07 PM JTB said...

got news for you "Love It" actually we DO have lots of money and yes we pay our bills too the next day after they come in. It is the other people that don't have what we have that I worry about. Ok, if you were joking on your first comment then I apologize...it simply didn't read that way at all. I don't believe I am the only one who didn't believe you but I will step up and again...sorry.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:07 PM Big Kev said...

To WE ALL LIVE IN WILSON,

You say stop puting wilson down so that new businesses will come have you noticed lately the places that are closing now. How do you think that look to companies thinking about coming here. While we are waiting for them to come here should we continue to pay these high rates.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:04 PM J.Lamm said...

To heck with payment plans, they need to significantly lower rates or find another provider. The Wilson community is already struggling to survive & thrive as a town, just look at all the empty buildings around & the businesses leaving. These high electric rates may even cause people to move to other towns, so they can try to make it economically. If that happens, Wilson will feel the brunt of that as well.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:00 PM Lisa C. said...

I took money out of savings last year to help pay our utility bills because my husband was unable to help since he pays most of our other bills, now i don't have it to take from for these bills, so we'll be using some of our tax refund (when we receive it) on our bills. My dad in Charlotte is always so shocked to hear how much i have to pay for the utilities when his house is bigger and his utilities are a lot cheaper per month!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 11:34 AM We All Live in Wilson said...

Yes everyone agrees that the rates are high in Wilson. But everyone coming up with these conspiracy theories is ridiculous. It is ignorance if you think that keeping your thermostat the same month to month should mean your bill should remain the same. January was a way colder month than December and do people not remember that we saw one of the biggest snowfalls around here in quite sometime. When it is colder outside your heating system works harder and uses more energy. Everyone be realistic and realize that we are experiencing one of the coldest stretches in over a decade. The only people we are hurting with all these ridiculous conspiracies and Wilson Times headlines is our community. We want Wilson to be a great community to live in but we cant keep degrading our community and expect any outside business to come. Yes, our rates are too high but be reasonable and think logically on how we can reduce our rates instead of blaming everyone. The more outside business such as restaurants and industries that come to Wilson the more profit Wilson Energy will have which will eventually lead to lower rates in Wilson. By having a higher volume of energy consumption from larger business we can share the cost of our debt which will lower our rates, plus more business means more jobs which we desperately need. Do no be little Wilson, we need to believe in our community and not always criticize our community or who would ever want to invest in Wilson.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 11:31 AM said...

I watched the city council meeting last night. I was outraged by the way the council talked to the wilson citizens. As though they were wasting their time and we didn't know what we were talking about. These high electric bills are crazy. Bruce Rose and all the other city council needs to be voted OUT! Because we as Wilson citizens can't continue to pay these high electric bills each month. I say...WE NEED A CHANGE HERE IN WILSON, NC.
I guess they're just not gonna change b/c they have a job and probably make good money to afford these high bills each month. So they don't care.
COME ON WILSON...WE NEED A CHANGE HERE IN WILSON! Let's vote them ALL out.
Let's make our VOTE count!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 11:31 AM tired of the excuses said...

What excuse are they going to use when the weather becomes mild? You will need no heat or air conditioner. I am curious to know what their excuses are going to be. Somebody is lining their pockets big time. For those of you who believe in Jesus Christ, let us seek Him for help. Pray that if there is corruption that it will be exposed and dealt with. Pray that God will provide the monies to pay these high electric bills. He is able!!!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 11:04 AM Nps4477 said...

My light bill was 300.00

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 10:45 AM william r said...

my bill is to hight and don't know how i am going to pay IT SOME PLEASE TELL UE WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 10:36 AM Mafive12 said...

I begin reading/charting my meter daily back in July 2009. I thought that my meter was not being read because the city worker was afraid of my dogs. It turns out that the numbers on my chart did match my bill. So I took action. I bought a kerosene heater from home depot and stocked on wood that my family actually cuts, splits, hauls and attends to daily for the winter months. I do not use the city's heat at all. Did I mention you could hang meat in our kitchen and bedrooms, due to the fact that we can't heat those rooms and stay warm enough in the main parts of the house! We wear our coats to eat, watch tv, and sleep! There have been numerous occassions where we were outside at 2 or 3 am splitting more wood to make sure my kids were warm enough to get dressed for school. My bills are still ranging between $425-$500 monthly! SO PLEASE STOP TELLING THE PEOPLE THE TEMPERATURES ARE CAUSING THIS PRICE HIKE! SOME ENTITY IS LINING ITS POCKETS AND SABOTAGING THE VERY FABRIC OF OUR COMMUNITY! BIG PICTURE OBSERVATIONALIST CAN NOT RATIONALIZE OR EXPLAIN AWAY THE GREED BEING DISPLAYED IN IT'S NASTIEST FORM! I THINK WHAT ANGERS ME THE MOST IS THE FACT THAT THE CITY WORKERS WHO ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME EXPLOITATION HAVE BOUGHT INTO THE LIES AND ARE HELPING TO SPREAD THE POISON THAT IS KILLING THEIR PARENTS, CHILDREN, SPOUSES AND LOVED ONES!!!! THE PEOPLE WILL UNITE AND FIND A WAY TO OVERCOME THIS TYRANNY!!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 10:29 AM Allen Golden said...

Our light bill was tremendously high this past month. Our bill normally runs around $200.00 per month; but our last bill was $466.00! There's something very wrong with this picture! We are a very conservative family in the Elm City area, and Wilson Power was just WAY TOO HIGH last month! There's no way that we used that much electricity! It's absolutely ridiculous!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 10:27 AM No Read said...

I have a foreclosed house that I have turned all the breakers off on ... For Nov. and Feb, the bill averaged $40, mainly for garbage pickup and something else. For Jan. the bill was $420, for a house there is nothing on. The customer service person said it appeared they didn't read the meter just averaged the cost from the year before. OMG. How hard is it to read the meters. Mine are at the street, even including the electric. So I told them to just pull the meters and shut everything off..... I give up....

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:53 AM Big Kev said...

It's amazing that none of our elected officials are not saying anything about their utiliy bills being too high. Sounds to me that they might be getting a hookup on their bills if not it would have already been addressed by now. When evryone was running for office all they talked about was high utility bills now that their in office they have really been silent kinda makes one wonder.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:52 AM Love it said...

I thought the meeting was great.. Go City Of Wilson Whoo Hooo...JTB step off you dont know me.. I am sorry I have money maybe learn how to invest and you will be better off.. To all others if you dont like paying these rates then become Amish they know how to live off the land and generate their own power..

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:45 AM Triangle said...

You folks need to get the AG or someone in on this. This is way out of kilter with what we are paying in other parts of the state.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:38 AM unreal said...

I was at the meeting last night and I was appalled at Ms. Burton LAUGHING at least 3 people (if not more) when they got up to speak. There was this one lady who was very articulate, well versed and very respectful when addressing the council. She was there against the used car lot. I though Ms. Burton was going to fall out of her seat at one point with her laughter. She was disrespectful and arrogant. She needs s to make a public apology to the people. I just couldn’t believe my eyes! I sent this post as an email to Bruce Rose

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:37 AM Nadia Minniti said...

This is in response to all of you who say "vote these people out." "These" people were just re-elected in November. Only a few people voted, compared to those registered to vote. Don't cry over spilled milk. People like to complain, but do not act to really change things. As long as only 7% of people vote--and usually those who can afford the high utilities bills are those who vote--nothing will change.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:19 AM HELP FBI said...

YES I AGREE WITH SAID.CALL THE FBI INTO WILSON.LET THEM INVESTIGATE THE WILSON AND ALL OF WILSON. VOTE IN A NEW CITY COUNCIL ON ELECTION DAY.WHEN OUR MAYOR WORKS FOR THE PROBLEM HE IS PART OF THE PROBLEM!!!!HE NEEDS TO GO ON ELECTION DAY.Is this a conflict of interest or what? I am going to send a complaint to the FEDS!! Lets see where that goes!!!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:16 AM said...

I am not a city of wilson utility customer but wanted some to know that the city employees did not get raises this past year. the budget was to tight they were told so there would be no raises.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:13 AM Before we leave said...

Its too expensive to live in Wilson. Before we move out, I'm voting the tyrants that occupy the council and the rest of our "leaders" out of office.
Wilson is suffering on an unprecedented scale. I have a family member that lives in a single wide, rates were around $150. It jumped to over $500. That's INSANE.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:01 AM outraged said...

Time to clean house and start at the top. Will Woodard for Mayor!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 8:32 AM JTB said...

Does anyone know of anyone who will be running against Rose (and all the others) in the next election? Isn't there anyone out there with integrity and won't get sucked into corruption?

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 7:45 AM Wendy T said...

Give me a break...
Brian Bowman, Wilson City Public Affairs manager says we pay for more than electricity, we get that. My home has had an energy audit as a result we have had double paned energy effecient windows installed and insulation blown throughout the home. We keep the thermostat on 58 degrees, so can you explain why my electric bill has doubled over the past few months?? Something is not right here!!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 6:31 AM to David said...

Ralph Elramey and the councils he presided over as mayor are the ones who got us into this bogus outfit to begin with. yea we need that rocket scientists back in charge.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 5:39 AM Flashlight said...

I agree with all city of Wilson residents, the rates are crazy. #196 to $393 to $419, with no changes during the months of Dec.Jan.Feb. I think they are billing everyone just what they want to. I see the meter reader when he does come, never stops, slows down, looks down, punches in "something" on his hand held meter and moves on. A complete turnover just might prove to be fruitful. People in this city are "HURTING." If these rates continue we may be using flashlights.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 4:43 AM said...

I own 3 rental properties in Wilson. Two were vacant in Dec and so far in Jan.One bill was $455 and one was $379 and the main breaker was off in this one. Mabe its time for an Justice Dept investigation. And the customer service reps at the Wilson Energy say pay or get your service disconnected and only 10 days after the bill is due. Mabe the note needs to be renegoiated on the nuclear power plant we are making payments on. Does anyone have anything good to say about ElectriCities? Also,I counted 15 Wilson Energy vechicles on the streets of Wilson within 45 minutes on Wednesday. Does Wilson Energy own anything but new vehicles? This is rediciolus when people can't pay their light bills.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 11:50 PM City of Wilson or Wilson Energy has Gone Wild with the Electirc Bill said...

To. Love it. Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion or comment. What you need to do is to understand that these utiltiy bill is just out of control. Yes, I feel that the rates or to high and they are not being justfied properly. We keeping coming up with all these new tatic at the city for the tax payer to pay for. Then you jack up the electric bill to compensate thess billing you are in. I would love to see what every city employee electric bill was for last especially those that sit in the high upper end chair, I don't see them complaining. Everyboyd at the city should be up for a raise since you have increased the electric bill. This goes to show how much the city care about their customer.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 11:35 PM Think about it said...

At this rate, people are going to continue to rob, steal, and kill to get money to pay for these ridiculous light bills. Pay attention to the crime rates. People are doing what they have to do to live. Do I condone these actions? No. Think about it....

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 11:08 PM JTB said...

Just got back from the meeting. Council woman, Burton laughed and I mean hard at several people who were talking. I couldn't believe it. Yes, clean house on election day!!! I swear, I am going to interview whoever is running. Isn't there anyone out there with integrity? Someone who will fight for us and not get sucked into corruption? As for "Love it", I don't believe you were joking for one second. Go move to L.A. were you can pay out the you know what for everything! And everyone, please come on board with "Tired of paying HIGH utility bills in Eastern NC!" and join the cause! Become involved!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 11:08 PM a long needed change said...

I was with Wilson Energy for several year, and the bills were always high. Almost a year ago I moved into a house that is bigger that anything I ever lived in, the power is supplied by Pitt and Greene EMC. My bill with Wilson Energy was never under $300.00, my bill with Pitt and Greene is rarely more that $100.00. Come on its time for someone to wake up. Wilson Energy customers are paying for all the pretty lights downtown, and the less fortunate that cant pay their bills. If the bills weren't so high maybe they wouldnt have a problem......good luck to all of you.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 10:35 PM David said...

Where is Mayor El Ramey when we need him? Bruce Rose: It is time to go. Don't wait to be fired or voted out. Resign now, it would look better on you.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 10:21 PM movingtoflorida said...

My bill was $975 this last month(3400 square foot house). I can't and won't continue to pay that for too much longer. NCEMPA has ruined Wilson as a great place to live!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:48 PM Kim said...

I just checked a national map that gives the 'average cost per kilowatt' for every state in the country. NC's average price per kilowatt is 7.53 cents. CT which is the 4th highest in the COUNTRY is 14.38 cents per kilowatt. WILSON is charging rates equal to the top 5 most expensive in the US!!! Why are our prices DOUBLE the state average?????
Check out the website. http://www.americaspower.org/The-Facts/
The states with the highest electric rates have much higher mean incomes and property values than Wilson, NC. How can we get this changed? What can we do to stop getting ripped off?

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:27 PM neighbor across the line said...

Progress Energy bills did the same, my bill went from on avaerage $300 a month to $600 in December and over $400 in January . The excuse that their recording when you call them to ask about it says that the temperaures were etremely lower and peoples heat ran a lot more....I had to do the same as others and use my tax refund to pay december and have to figure out how to pay the January bill.

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:24 PM Suzanne McAllister said...

I'm listening to city council. Why is it alway the customer's fault. Mr. Rose and council talk down to customer's like we don't have common sense. The RATE is too HIGH! We got to get rid of ElectricCities!!!!!!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:18 PM Kim said...

$550 this month, and my house was NEVER over 61. I am single, work 12 hours a day, and I only turn my furnace on a half hour before bed to take the chill off the air. If it is above 32 outside, I turn my furnace OFF at night, and turn it on in the morning for 1 hour while getting ready for work. It is not unusal to wake up to my house being 47 or 48 inside. I stay under lots of blankets, wear heavy sweats, socks, AND slippers. NO ONE should be this cold in a house and pay $550 for utilities. I don't cook at home, and I don't do laundry at home. So, WHY is my bill so high?????!!!!

Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9:13 PM Michelle said...

Loves it.....you must be a wealthy person to be able to pay your bill the day it comes in the mail. I have to hope I have enough money left over to pay my mortgage and buy groceries. When you're utility bill is more than your mortgage...SOMETHING IS WRONG!!!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 8:58 PM Re: wake up wide awake wilson said...

We will have the opportunity for change on May 4th and then in November. If we don't then we lose the right to complain.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 8:29 PM hst said...

It's time to get rid of those back room deal cuttin good ole boy politicians that we foolishly keep electing. Wake Up wide awake Wilson.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 7:54 PM Parkerville said...

Well, someone has got to pay for that ugly new electric substation at Packhouse road,don't they?
Not so surprising no one seems to be praising
Wilson Power much here on these comments.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 6:18 PM Loves it said...

I was being funny guys lol lol lol... I am sick of the bills..

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 5:28 PM Suzanne McAllister said...

Loves It, I very happy for you. But the rest of us can't afford to pad the city of wilson's pockets. Wilson needs to cut out the waste in the budget. I suggest they start saving money by getting rid of Brian Bowman. If something isn't done soon, more businesses will leave town. Don't tell me cost of utilities isn't a factor in the growing list of businesses leaving Wilson. They can't afford utilities and their business is greatly reduced when the citizens can't shop because they are trying to keep utilities on at home. My parents home has been vacant and on the market for 18 months. No one using lights, only thermostat set at 58. Still receive a bill for $130.00 for empty house. No wonder homes not selling in Wilson, mime may have to go on market too cause we can't afford living in Wilson.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 5:21 PM Sharon Atkinson said...

My utility bill is always around 400to500 dollars,but for January it was 1175.00dollars,that is ridiculousy....

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 5:13 PM DJM said...

The rate are much to high. Compare other counties and our the highest. Cold weather had nothing to do with it. Mine has been high for 12 months. Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer. Wilson will be a ghost town if they continue with these rates.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 5:00 PM JTB said...

Just have to say, good job Daily Times.....keep this going for the people. Well done!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:56 PM Suzanne McAllister said...

Love it, I'm very happy for you. That's must be a great little world you live in. In our world of reality, changes must be made. City of Wilson needs to cut their budget, and they can start cutting cost by firing Brian Bowman.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:55 PM JANIE said...

Yes, our bill was the highest it has ever been, living in our house for 20 yrs +. Dec. was $302 compared to Jan. $608. which was for maybe 5 - 6 days more. (By the way, where I work I expect to prepare my monthly billings, reports and etc. at the same time each month.) Our entire upstairs is shut off as of November - including heat unit. We are only heating the downstairs with only two people compared to four people previously. When four people were there, we cooked almost 100% of meals, compared to rarely cooking at home now with two people there. The amount of clothes washed and dryed are now less that 1/2 than when four people were there. Oh, yes I forgot to mention that we only have our thermostat set on 62-64 degrees this entire winter. That includes when we are at home! We do not change the thermostat. And for a topper, we did not put any Christmas lights outside or extra lights inside. We also bought a new Christmas tree this year - and it was LED lights, which were not even turned on except for about 8 -10 times. So what is everyone suppose to do?? We have truly tried to conserve energy to reduce our bill and it only goes up, up, and up. How are some of our people in our city suppose to pay their bill when they living on a fixed income? I wonder how we will be able to pay our bill if it continues to go up at the same rate and our income will obviously go down when we retire?? I learned a long time ago in school that monopolies control everything and can set their own price since there is no one to compete with. What happens at a gas station when a neighboring gas station drops their rate. You got it! The other gas will have to drop their rate or they will be out of business. Now there needs to be some research done on this matter.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:41 PM Election Day! said...

All the comments on this page need to be backed up on ELECTION DAY.
The primaries are May 4th.
Forget the word incumbent! Throw everyone out!
City, County, State and U.S.
If you don't throw out a majority and get a new voting block it won't work.
The next round of city council needs a good house cleaning as well!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:36 PM GOD WILL FIX IT said...

I'M GOING TO PUT PRAYER ON THIS SITUATION!!!!
DO ANYONE KNOW HOW MUCH DO THE CITY OF WILSON EMPLOYEES PAY FOR THE ELECTRIC BILL

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:30 PM DT said...

Wilson is charging us high rates on ALL our utilities to gain a profit, a cash cow, to be used for general purposes that are not shown in the cities yearly budget. This is not the proper way to treat the great citizens of Wilson. Utility charges should be sufficient to cover operating costs only. Everything else should be included in the yearly budget and approved by the city councel. The city needs to be transparent with all their business, after all they do work for the citizens of Wilson.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:15 PM Lisa said...

I have watched my light bill increase. I am so tired of hearing the lame excuses when you call the light company about an explanation on why the bill is so high. How can you be charged for 36 days? I never see anyone read my the meter. I paid $700.00 for the month of February and I heat by kerosene I can't afford to turn my unit on. All the city says is call us and give an explanation on why you can't paid your bill duh?????? I would like to see the mayors light bill is he struggling to pay his bill? Where is the justice ? can someone please investigate this situation.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:15 PM this is a cash grab said...

they're trying to get as much as they can until they are forced to lower rates.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:15 PM CONCERNED said...

How can the Mayor be "The Mayor" i.e.- representing
the people and be on the Board for Electricities
representing Wilson? This would be a conflict of
interest? It appears that LOVES IT ... should just pay his bill and leave the rest to the citizens that do have a problem with high utilities. Is their a salary involved for both
positions? Interesting?

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:13 PM JTB said...

I meant to say that Bruce Rose was the Chairman of the board - not CEO. Still conflict of interest and still can't wait to get him out!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:10 PM said...

Loves It must work for the City of Wilson. Kiss up. Either that or they just don't have anything better to do with their money and can afford the high bills. My family is on a budget and these bills certainly did not fit into it.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:04 PM Too Funny said...

JTB....Well said. I can't wait for the election either, then maybe the mayor can find someone else to pad his bank account!!!!!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 4:02 PM dgb said...

The City of Wilson has placed more and more taxes and user fees on us to the point we can no longer afford to live and do business here. The City of Wilson continues to hire employees and place them in expensive cars and trucks while the lowly citizen gets the bill. Wilson to some degree should only blame themselves because you keep voting in the same people over and over again. When the citizens of Wilson wake up and replace their leaders with people who care about the little guy, that's when things will begin to change. Until then, get used to the status quo.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 3:58 PM JTB said...

Re: "Loves it" and "Too Funny". No, "loves it" isn't the CEO of ElectriCities...it is our very own Mayor, Bruce Rose!!!!!!! This is a conflict of interest and I for one cannot wait until the next election. Bye, Bye Bruce! Woo Hoo!!!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 3:52 PM Moore said...

My utility bill is way too high. I keep my thermostat on 65 the majotiry of the time. I even unplugged TVs when not in use, unplugged my microwave, unplugged extra clock radios, disabled some extra bulbs so they won't all come on, placed extra weather stripping around doors...trying to save as much as possible - but from what I understand, there is nothing we can do based on the contract we have in place. I feel so sorry for the people who are absolutely not going to be able to pay these huge bills. Thank goodness i have been able to pay mine - less a few luxuries each month. I hope the people who approved the contract are nice and warm.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 3:49 PM Wilson vs. Duke Energy said...

Wilson charges 14.38 cents per kilowatt hour. Duke (after all the surcharges and credits) seems to be around 11 cents per kilowatt hour.
This is not exact but it is one third higher.
I don't know how the electricity debt is structured but if it can't be restructered we need a government bail out.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 3:43 PM john said...

CRAZY!!!!!!!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 3:39 PM gone with the wind said...

This is one reason that my family will be moving from Wilson! I find it VERY hard to believe that my bill can go from 189 one month to 480 the next and I havent turned the heat up at all!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 3:36 PM TOO FUNNY said...

re: Loves it...Who are you the CEO of Electricities???? You defintitely have to be, because YOU are the ONLY one that feels this way!!!
Loves it said...
I cant believe all the negative talk on this board.. City Of Wilson is one of the finest places to live.. So what we have to pay more on a bill.. Where were all of you when gas went way up?? Didnt see any group get involved then.. I am sick of all you whiners out there suck it up pay your bill and move on..I am glad to pay mine the day it comes in the mail if you cant pay yours get some candles and lanterns.. Then lets see how fast you will pay it.. Thank You City Of Wilson I am honered to be one of your true customers...

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 3:18 PM JTB said...

Join "Tired of paying high utilities in Eastern NC! on Facebook and get involved! There is power in numbers and we are all in this together!!!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 2:59 PM Outta Control said...

Even if our bills are high b/c we are using more energy b/c its cold, thats beside the point! The PRICE is outrages of all these customers bills, and people just cant afford it.. Doesnt matter if we are using more B/C its cold, somewhere there has to be some kind of sympathy to HELP your CUSTOMERS!!! You know, maybe a reduced rate in the coldest months so people can actually survive decent without worrying how to foot the bill for there electricity!! You know the more money that has to be paid to the City is less money that floats around the stores to keep Wilson ALIVE!! And yes, I understand officials have to pay their utility bills too but some folks arent making as much money and are even laid off! I guess you want them to go in debt even more to pay ONE months utility bill!!! What has happend to the Real America!!!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 2:50 PM Robert Clark said...

Our last month statement nearly doubled and the only reason given was for the nearly a week extra that was on the billing cycle. The way my math works, then it should have been about a 20-25% increase, not near 100%! We are all in tight financial constraints due the weakened economy and this is not the time for something that is needed, such as electricity, to dramatically increase without due cause. As it stands residents of Wilson have no choice but to pay our bill and continue to have service with Wilson Electric, but this is a prime example of a monopoly. They can increase rates without due cause and all we can do is continue service because we have no other options. I feel that only is this rate hike unfair, it should be illegal!!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 2:44 PM Pat said...

Yes, along with everyone else our bill also went up. We did nothing different from one month to the next. I am sick of the city officials blaming high bills on things other than electric [gas added, etc]. They can spin it all they want but the people getting the bills know they are being ripped off! Ours is an older home, but we have remodeled, insulated, replaced windows and just last year spent $7000 putting high tech insulation in our attic. yet the bills are still high. Ripped off and fed up.....YUP!

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 2:37 PM I'm ready to move TODAY! said...

Lets say we could all sale our homes and let's say we all move out of the Wilson electric area. What would the city electric bill look like then? Do you think the powers to be would wake up?

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 2:26 PM Need to good to work said...

Attention Wilson Daily Times: it is time for you to step up and do your job as reporters. Help the people of your town. Its time for you to send reporters to other towns and check on their electric rates. Found out how much the average homeowner pays. Compare Wilson to them. Find a large city then move to a city about the same size of Wilson, then find the smaller city. IT'S TIME TO DIG! We can talk about it all day. You need to show the city just how bad they really are.
Does the city read this? NO! The employees are not allowed to open this web site and the managers don't care what the citizens say.

Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 2:19 PM

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