As the economy begins to recover from the impacts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lacey City Council voted to lift the suspension of late fees and to resume enforcement of actions for delinquent utility services accounts.
During the Lacey City Council meeting on Thu., Nov. 18, City Attorney Dave Schneider presented an amendment to Resolution No. 1087 which provided for the temporary procedures in response to the COVID-19 emergency.
Schneider shared that the amendment includes lifting the suspension on interest charges, late fees, and enforcement of actions for delinquent utility accounts. The resolution would provide a directive to the city staff to recover past due bills.
Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder recognized that there are community members who have been hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, “Some people have been hurt.” To help residents settle their utility bills, City Manager Scott Spence announced a 24-month payment plan.
The plan provides residents with more time to pay their past-due bills without any interest or penalties. Spence also encouraged residents to sign-up for the payment plan, “Our remedy is to turn off the water service, and we’re trying to avoid that.”
For its next steps, Finance Director Troy Woo shared that the city’s utility billing department will begin to send notices for delinquent accounts. They would also include information and a form for the 24-month payment plan.
“Hopefully the public could hear us, there are dollars out there available for you and to help you,” Ryder said. He also encouraged residents to reach out to the Community Action Council for assistance.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here