2003-02-27_PWETC_AgendaPacket - Laserfiche WebLink

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These remain the only requirements under the current Program. There is no requirement to demonstrate financial need, nor is their any provision that calls for the on-going verification of eligibility status. Assistance programs typically arise out of the desire to achieve outcomes that would not ordinarily occur on their own. In this particular case, it could be argued that certain segments of the population would be unablc to afford adequate water and sewer service without the benefit of the discount. To try and detenlline the validity of this argument, Staff has analyzed the 2000 Census infomlation regarding household income. Census 2000 Overview It should be noted that the infonnation presented below and in the attachment is based on a 15% sample of households in Roseville. The 2000 Census provides the following infomlation: o 4% of households have income below the poverty level (defined as $12,000 annually for a 2-person household). 19% of households have income below $25,000 annually. Statistical infomlation regarding household expenses was not available. o 2% of households are cun"ently recciving public assistance Il1come. This could include federal, state, or local assistance programs. o 31% of households are receiving Social Security Income at an average of$14,000 annually. o 21 % of households are receiving Retirement Income at an average of $22,000 annually. The Census data suggests that approximately 20-30% of all households in Roseville are receiving some fonn of fixed income payments. Although not explicit in the data, it suggests that these same homes are receiving income from multiple sources, that when combined produces an averagc household income ranging from $14,000 ~ 36,000 annually. The Census data indicates that 2% of Roseville households are cUlTently receiving public assistance income. It is feasible that a higher percentage of households are eligible to receive assistance, but have choscn not to apply. Based on the Census data, that figure is not likely to be any higher than 4-5%. Comparison to Other Assistance Programs To offer a comparison with other assistance programs, Staff reviewed existing federal, state, and county programs. Under the reviewed programs the typical recipient of assistance must meet the following eligibility requirements: o Household income at or below federal poverty guidelines o Cash or near-cash assets of $3,000 or less. An applicant's primary vehicle and homestead are excluded.