ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. (WJHL) — On Monday, residents gathered at the Siam Utility District’s office to express their worries regarding a hike in water rates and other related concerns.

The minimum rate for water service was increased to $65 at the beginning of June.

Customers also voiced concerns about water breaks and discrepancies in their water meter readings.

Jeff Blanton, who has been on the utility district’s board for one month, says board members are working to get to the bottom of such problems.

“I understand the frustration expressed by those who attended,” Blanton remarked. “I urge everyone to continue voicing these concerns. We are collaborating with state authorities and our community partners, aiming for increased transparency so that everyone will know exactly what’s going on and the reasons behind it.”

Blanton said a new board member was nominated at Monday’s meeting, and he hopes having a full board will help matters.

“These problems have been long-term, and so it will take a little while to get everything rectified,” he said.

Blanton said the board is working to hire a “a really good, competent office manager.”