Story perspectives

Texas Retiree Faces Soaring Water Bills Amid Disconnection

2/8/2026

Summary

Christina Mann Struggles

Christina Mann, a retiree in Point Blank, Texas, had her water service disconnected by Texas Water Utilities, forcing her to rely on a friend's hose.
Her Social Security check barely covers expenses, and rising fees worsen the burden.
In one month she was charged $169 for minimal water use, with 94% of the bill from base fees.
A Houston resident using the same amount paid only $57.

Summary

Rosenberg Recovers Savings

Irving Rosenberg, a 90-year-old resident of Southern California, lost his entire life savings of $814,000 to forged checks after unauthorized withdrawals began last spring.
Rosenberg's health issues, including early-stage dementia, hindered his ability to monitor his account.
Wells Fargo initially denied the fraud claim due to a missed 60-day reporting deadline.
After media scrutiny and advocacy support, Wells Fargo reversed the decision and returned the funds.

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Christina Mann Struggles

Christina Mann, a retiree in Point Blank, Texas, had her water service disconnected by Texas Water Utilities, forcing her to rely on a friend's hose.
Her Social Security check barely covers expenses, and rising fees worsen the burden.
In one month she was charged $169 for minimal water use, with 94% of the bill from base fees.
A Houston resident using the same amount paid only $57.

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