Neighborhood Frustrated By Atmos' Timing On Moving Gas Meters
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DALLAS (CBS11) - No heat and with freezing temperatures around the corner, some Oak Cliff residents are without gas just as the holidays approach.
The issue started when Atmos Energy crews began moving gas meters from several backyards to more accessible spots toward the front of homes.
Upon testing the lines, crews said they discovered large leaks at a few homes.
The lines were then shut off and because they fell within the customer's property boundaries, it was their responsibility to hire a plumber the fix the lines before service could be restored.
"It kind of feels a little like I'm squatting, in my own home," said Nichelle Ritter, who lives in Oak Cliff.
Ritter said she has been without gas since Monday. She cannot cook or take a hot shower and if she wants warmth, it is through her fireplace.
"Everybody is like, 'I can't believe this is happening in your neighborhood. I can't believe they're waiting until this time of year to change the meters,'" said Ritter.
Hundreds of dollars and nearly a week later, Ritter's plumbers found no leak.
Ritter soon discovered several other homeowners experienced the same issue.
"Can't take a bath with hot water. My stove is gas, my furnace is gas. So it's a bind," said Rebecca Santos, who lives along the same Oak Cliff block as Ritter.
After calling and emailing Atmos Energy, crews reappeared in the neighborhood to take another look at the situation.
Atmos released the following statement regarding the issue on Friday night:
We realize the timing of this issue is unfortunate particularly with much colder weather in the forecast for the Dallas area. Atmos Energy is committed to assisting our customers who have been impacted. Here are our next steps:
1. We plan to offer a hotel to each of the individuals affected.
2. We will send an Atmos Energy technician to those affected homes tonight to try and pinpoint the leak locations on the customer's gas line in order to facilitate the repair.
3. If the leak on the customer's gas line cannot be isolated and service cannot be restored, we will coordinate with a plumber to help expedite the process.
Ritter said she supports the updated meters, but it is the timing of the fix that gets her blood boiling.
"I really just want to get the word out to my neighbors that if Atmos shows up before the last freeze, wanting to check your meters, turn them down," said Ritter.
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