GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) -- Several WZZM viewers called 13 On Your Side after receiving letters which read "late sewer or water charges become an immediate lien against your property."
We've learned that hundreds of homeowners in Grand Rapids received such a warning letter. City authorities say the procedure is legal under the 1939 Municipal Water Liens Act.
One woman who called our Information Center was told she owed just $5, which she disputes. Grand Rapids city leaders concede it will not likely file a lien on such a small amount right away.
In the past the city sent out late notices over the course of the year. This time the letters went out all at once. The water department says next year, the city will go back to its old system.