Xmas Tree Lot Owner Clearing Up Accidental Charges

New Tampa Patch wrote a story on Dec. 22 about . Recently, Patch has been contacted by numerous customers frustrated with double and triple credit card charges by the stand. And with the lot shut down following the end of the season, they say they have no way to get in touch with the operator. 

But Jack Williams, the owner of Williams Christmas Trees, told Patch today he is aware of the problem but was sidelined by a 10-day hospital stay. He said the reason for the excess charges was an equipment problem with the merchant company.

"The machine wasn't downloaded and many of (the credit cards) were being run offline and we didn't know," he said. "Sometimes problems arise. ... This happened to me at Walmart."

Williams, who has been selling trees in the area for 23 years, said the issue was a simple mistake and anyone with an issue can call him at (813) 900-8966.