Mount Dora scraps service-line warranty partnership after complaints it was a scam

The letter, signed “sincerely City of Mount Dora” on stationery bearing the city’s logo, looked funny to Aaron Miller.

For a monthly fee, it offered the truck driver financial protection if “you were unfortunate enough to suffer a break or burst” in a water or sewer line in the Hibiscus Mobile Home Community where he lives.

“It upset me from the jump,” said Miller, 63, who called City Hall for an explanation about the direct-mail solicitation sent by a Pennsylvania-based water- and sewer-line warranty company. “Were they legit or just trying to bogart my money using Mount Dora’s name?”

Amid criticism from Miller and other residents, Mount Dora City Council members decided unanimously Tuesday night to give 30 days notice to end its arrangement with Service Line Warranties of America. The heads up is required by the contract, which allowed the warranty company to use Mount Dora’s seal and endorsement in its marketing campaign.