Peabody lighting board apologizes for billing error

PEABODY – Representatives from the Peabody Municipal Lighting Commission would like to apologize to their customers who may have seen an unexpected increase in their latest electric bill.According to a press release, many customers received a bill that included an extra 5-10 days of service charges. The inclement weather and busy holiday season prevented meter readers from making it out to each home during the typical billing cycle.A normal monthly bill contains charges for 28 to 30 days, said the release. There were many customers who received a bill for 37 to 38 days. The delays in meter readings coupled with bitter cold temperatures, which increases usage, asked customers to pay much more than they anticipated.”We fully understand that these additional days have put (pressure) on our customers who live on a fixed income,” said Thomas D’Amato, chairman of the Commission. “We encourage any customer who might have difficulty paying this bill to please contact the light plant.”The meter reading issue has been corrected and steps have been put in place to prevent such a situation from occurring again, said representatives.Despite the mishap, the release highlighted that the light plant offers some of the lowest rates in the area. Neighboring communities in Salem and Lynn are paying 75-100 percent more than residents in Peabody and South Lynnfield.