When you buy a house, you are responsible for water bills that the previous owners is that?
House was purchased by a federal sales and Marshall declared the buyer would be responsible only for property taxes. The city lights not until the utility pays the bill former owners, which was closed in 2003. I think the bill should stay with the owner and not the property. The state of Kansas and Clay County.
I think they try to pull a trick on you! There would be no legal reason to be responsible. Do you have a legal document that says you have to pay past earnings? They have to show you before you pay. If not, you need to charge the previous owners, or the bill sent to collections. Then start a completely new sales for you! They know it .. Can not start an entirely new billing to you until all documents are signed and the laws of the place is yours. Period. You have a lawyer who handles this does not work? Otherwise, call the Better Business Bureau, which helps, or lessee of land Lord. Good luck!