ANNA
(June 20, 2018) Notices mailed to some Anna homes, purposely designed to cause undue alarm over undelivered packages, are actually part of a marketing effort by a company seeking to sell water filtration systems.
“The notices look like legitimate attempts at delivering packages, but in reality, are a ‘come-on’ for a sales pitch,” says Assistant to the City Manager Jessica Perkins. “We’ve received calls from several residents who were made to believe that a package was undeliverable. They innocently called the number only to realize that it was not what it purported to be.”
When recipients of the notices call to inquire about the alleged delivery, they are told that their water is impure, requiring a water filter. The sales people offer no proof or any other substantiation to their claim.
Public Works Director Joseph Johnson says residents with questions regarding water quality are encouraged to contact the Public Works Department directly.
“We value the opportunity to speak to residents about the water that is being delivered to their homes and businesses through our distribution system,” he said. “Our group is always available to reassure residents with regard to water quality and the steps that we take on a daily basis to ensure a safe and reliable water supply.”
It is not against the law to mail marketing material to sell products, but a ‘bait-and-switch’ scheme that misleads consumers can be prosecuted. The City of Anna does not endorse or sanction the sale or marketing of any product or service and any company that states that they have such endorsement may also be violating the law.
Water Superintendent Troy Hopkins may be reached at thopkins@annatexas.gov or by phone at (972) 924-4510.