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34 General Discussion <br />35 Currently, there are 30 homeowners participating in the Program, although it’s likely that others are <br />36 eligible but have chosen not to participate. When we instituted the program changes in 2014 many <br />37 homeowners told us that they were uncomfortable in accepting assistance from the County–a specific <br />38 eligibility requirement.We will note that information regarding the Program is regularly highlighted in <br />39 the city newsletter, and can be found under the ‘Utility Billing’ tile on the city website home page. <br />40 <br />41 The Mayor has requested that the Council discuss expanding the utility discount to those that are receiving <br />42 unemployment benefits. Unemployment benefits are normally only available for 26 weeks and provide <br />43 about 50% of the person’s normal wages which could have an impact on the entire household’s financial <br />44 status. <br />45 <br />46 The Council had waived late payment fees for the period of March through May to help residents during <br />47 the current pandemic. Staff recommends that the Council consider extending the waiving of late payment <br />48 fees for another quarter of billing – June through August of 2020. <br />49 <br />50 Staff will be available at the Council meeting to address any questions. <br />51 <br />52 P OLICY O BJECTIVE <br />53 Not applicable. <br />54 F INANCIAL I MPACTS <br />55 Reduced income to the utility funds. <br />56 S TAFF R ECOMMENDATION <br />57 Staff recommends waiving the late payment fees on utility bills for June through August. <br />58 R EQUESTED C OUNCIL A CTION <br />59 Will be based on discussion. <br />60 <br />Prepared by: Michelle Pietrick, Finance Director <br />Page 2 of 2 <br /> <br />