The Blackshear City Council is currently considering adjusting the grace period for cutting off water utilities due to non-payment and also increasing the late fees for reactivation.
The amendment under discussion would allow disconnection of water services once a bill is 30 days or more past due. Late fees assessed on unpaid balances would be increased from the current 10 percent to 15.
The subject was first brought up for discussion at the council’s July 7 work session. Per the meeting’s agenda, “the changes are intended to promote timely payment of utility bills and support the financial stability of the city’s water and sewer system.”
Mayor Keith Brooks explained to those present the adjustments would increase the grace period allowed prior to disconnection.
According to the most recent public works department reports available prior to press time, in the month of May there were 38 service cut offs, and 25 services cut back on in the city of Blackshear.
No action will be taken on the matter until the council’s July 14 regular meeting, which took place after this edition went to press.
The Times will update this story as it develops.
