MEMPHIS, Tenn. — We should probably expect that a large utility company will get a fair amount of criticism, particularly when that company enjoys a monopoly over every significant public utility – as is the case with Memphis Light, Gas and Water. But there are times when that criticism goes too far, and this weekend was one of those times.
Of course, everyone in Memphis is facing major inconvenience from having to boil water until further notice as a precaution against possible contaminants due to broken waters mains and low water pressure. When you combine that with a crippling snowstorm, several days of frigid temperatures, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, well, it’s no surprise that patience would be in short supply.
But that’s no excuse for the obnoxious and utterly offensive comments on social media aimed at MLGW officials. Case in point, utility executives held a 45-minute Facebook live session Saturday to update us on the water woes and answer as many questions from the public as possible. But messages that flooded the site contained mostly petty complaints and personal attacks.
The childish comments are what we have come to expect from some people on social media, but they must be called out. I have not always agreed with MLGW, but I do believe the utility is working hard to resolve this water crisis. So enough with the offensive and juvenile remarks. And that’s my point of view.