‘Several hundred’ qualify for disconnection
Waycross has started disconnecting utility services for “severely delinquent” accounts.
Disconnections began Monday, August 3. Business Integration & Information Systems Director Patrick Simmons said accounts more than 30 days in arrears have been deemed “severely delinquent” and subject to disconnection.
Simmons, who now oversees utility billing and payment as part of a department restructuring, said there are “several hundred” of the city’s more than 5,000 utility accounts behind in payments.
The delinquent accounts date back as far as April and represents multiple thousands of dollars in outstanding revenue, according to Simmons.
He said some accounts covering multiple months are the fault of the city’s collection practices, and the restructuring was an effort to address internal controls to help prevent the situation going forward.
Simmons said customers with delinquent accounts are urged to contact Utility Customer Service to pay the outstanding balance or discuss payment arrangements if they can’t pay in full.
“Please call us. We want to talk with people and work with everyone on the list,” Simmons said, adding customers could email him (psimmons@waycrossga. gov) or call the main number (912 287-2900).
Any disconnections will occur until noon Monday through Wednesday only, Simmons said.
Those satisfying accounts by 4 p.m. could receive reconnection that same day depending on the workload of Public Works Department personnel. Otherwi se, reconnection will occur the next business day.
Online or drop-box payments made after hours will be processed for reconnection on the next business day.
The utility cutoff notice applies only to accounts that are delinquent. Customers whose accounts are current are not affected.
Simmons also said the city is in the middle of a meter upgrade to newer more accurate models.
He said customers will receive notice of their meter being changed out and an increase in the bill is possible for many, and likely for those who’ve been paying a flat rate be-cause of a outdated device.
Simmons also said the city recommends customers create an online account that will allow them to check current balance, review water usage, and billing as well as register for automatic drafts.
To enroll in electronic billing, create or access your account by visiting https://na2.hubs.ly/H06 X0_v0.
The online system is recommended so residents can stay informed about the system, monitor water usage, account balance, and billing.
Comments