$86,000 water bill from the city...account was in tenant's name

[Margaret Blanton]

I live in Atlanta where they can put a lien on your property for the water bill. However, I didn't think I would be responsible if the account was in the tenant's name. Tenant left and never notified me. I just found out that there is an $86,000 water bill and I am responsible. 1) what?!!?? 2) How can I possibly be responsible for a bill that was not in my name. 3) Why didn't they turn off the water after it reached $1000 or $2000...hell, $20,000. 

It doesn't seem right. I don't plan to sell the property anytime soon, but I still don't want this hanging over me. Does anyone have any insight? This doesn't seem right.