Bessemer City Council Addresses Water Bill Dispute

Resident seeks relief for high water bill caused by hidden pipe leak

Mar. 26, 2026 at 12:00am

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The Bessemer City Council discussed a resident's request to have his high water bill waived due to a hidden pipe leak at his property. The council heard arguments from both the resident and city staff, and ultimately agreed to have the resident's water meter examined to determine if it was faulty. If the meter is found to be working properly, the resident will be responsible for the bill and the cost of the meter examination.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges cities face in balancing the needs of residents with the financial realities of operating a municipal water system. It also raises questions about how cities can better detect and notify residents of potential leaks to avoid high bills.

The details

Resident Jason Hearley disputed a high water bill he received for his property at 108 E. Longyear St., explaining that a pipe joint had "let loose" and water was draining directly into the sewer without the occupants' knowledge. However, Councilwoman Linda Nelson disputed that the leak would have gone unnoticed, arguing that a high-speed leak would have been audible. The council ultimately agreed to have Hearley's water meter examined, and if it is found to be working properly, he will be responsible for the bill as well as the $250 cost of the meter examination.

  • The city council discussed the issue at its Monday meeting.
  • Hearley submitted a letter about the issue to the deputy clerk on March 10.
  • The council plans to revisit the issue at its April 27 meeting if the meter examination results are available by then.

The players

Jason Hearley

A Bessemer resident who disputed a high water bill he received due to a hidden pipe leak at his property.

Linda Nelson

A Bessemer City Council member who disputed Hearley's claim that the leak would have gone unnoticed by occupants or city staff.

Bessemer City Council

The governing body of the city of Bessemer, Michigan, which discussed Hearley's water bill dispute.

Department of Public Works

City staff who examined the water meter and believe the high output rate was possible for a limited duration.

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What they’re saying

“You'd never be able to tell that there was a leak.”

— Jason Hearley

“The pipes can't handle that much water. 240 gallons per hour "is as much as a half-inch pipe can handle.”

— Jason Hearley

“If the meter is examined and found to be faulty, the city would cover the overage and the cost of the examination and replacement of the meter.”

— Linda Nelson, Councilwoman

What’s next

The council plans to revisit the issue during its April 27 meeting if the results of the water meter examination are available by then.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges cities face in balancing the needs of residents with the financial realities of operating a municipal water system, and the importance of improving leak detection and notification systems to avoid high bills for residents.