For three hours, an angry crowd of DeKalb residents pressed county leaders to do something about absurd water bills that at times exceed $1,000.

They demanded answers and complained about extreme bills during a tense town meeting Thursday night.

Residents said they couldn't understand how their government could charge them so much for a basic necessity, and then fail to provide adequate explanations when residents called a customer service line.

DeKalb commissioners and government employees apologized and pledged to improve, but many homeowners said they lack confidence that the problem will be solved.

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State Election Board Vice Chair Janice Johnston speaks during an election board meeting at the Capitol in Atlanta on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025. (Arvin Temkar / AJC)

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