Vectren to meet with customers to apologize for high bills

COLUMBUS, Ind. (AP) – Vectren will meet with some of its natural gas customers to apologize for an error that led to March bills that were more than $200 higher than a year ago in some cases.

Vectren spokeswoman Natalie Hedde says the utility will offer a face-to-face apology at the May 7 meeting at Columbus City Hall. Vectren North President Mike Roeder will attend the meeting.

Hedde tells The Republic that at least 450 customers received bills that varied $200 or more year to year. She says that number will increase because the billing cycle is not yet complete and some bills still are being mailed.

Vectren says the problem stems primarily from a contracted meter reader who reported erroneously low readings on customer bills for up to three months.