Toni, I recognize that spot! We just had amazing rains here this morning so it may be like that all over the area.
As for water bills: I am on a well but I own suburban renthouses whose water bills are routinely over $100 so you live in the right place.
I now have a dishwasher and use it about once a week. Previously I washed dished by hand - my hands have never been so clean since!
