Some residents of the Villages at the Domain are upset about excessively high water bills.
"Villages at the Domain’s centralized chilled water air-conditioning system has helped earn the complex a 3-star green rating. In more traditional air conditioning systems the cost of running the compressor is reflected in a resident’s electric bill. With this more environmentally friendly chilled water system apartments do not have individual compressors and the air conditioning costs are reflected in water bills. Village at the Domain’s popular environmental initiatives are one reason we have leased over 95% of the units. We are proud of this innovative system and will be glad to explain it to potential or current residents."
Baucum said his electric bills were about the same as other Austin apartments he’s lived in while his water bills remained astronomically high.
“That extra $200, it jumps you up when you are already paying a high rent,” he said.
So two months ago Baucum moved out and into a two-story home twice the size of his residence at the Domain. So what is the cost of his current water bill?
“The water was $13,” he said.
Baucum said he is aware of at least 50 current tenants at the Villages at the Domain who have complained about the high water bills. He started a petition drive and retained an attorney in case dissatisfied residents decide they want to pursue legal action.
Joanne LaRoche said after receiving a water bill she claimed was $100 more than normal, she too is considering moving out.
“Because I'm worried what's going to come up next,” she said. “What's the next bill? Is it going to be good or is it going to be bad? You never know.”
