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Updated 09/06/2010 04:18 PM

Some families without water in eastern Travis County

By: News 8 Austin Staff

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Some families in eastern Travis County are going without water after the Kennedy Ridge Water Supply Corporation raised its rates.

The Sanchez family has been affected by the water rates. They now use buckets to gather water for their bath, and buy their drinking water from a local grocery store.

The father of the family said their water bill doubled from $80 a month to $160 in April. He said he can afford the higher bill, but is protesting by not paying it. He believes the new rates are unjust.

State Senator Kirk Watson said those living in the unincorporated parts of the county are caught in a regulatory no-man's land.

"These are the kinds of things that are under the radar, and then they pop up, but really call attention to do things right," Sen. Watson said. "In my opinion, it is entirely inappropriate for people to find themselves in these situations."

Sen. Watson said his office is talking with the Texas Attorney General's Office, which is investigating the company.