In a move addressing the pressing issue of unpaid water bills in St. Louis, the city has teamed up with United Way to inject some relief into households drowning in debt. The partnership has given birth to the Water Utility Assistance Program, designed to bail out residents with delinquent accounts as a moratorium on water shutoffs, in place since 2020, is slated to end come September 1.
More than 13,400 residential accounts are currently past due, amassing a staggering $12.6 million in unpaid bills. This financial hardship looms over the city's water operation, which, according to St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer, requires immediate action for sustainability. "Our municipal water—with the residents of St Louis as the 'owners'—cannot continue to function and provide the City with high-quality water for the long term under an indefinite moratorium. We have drained financial reserves while operating at financial deficits and need to help customers get back on track for the long-term viability of our City's water," Spencer mentioned in a statement obtained by the City of St. Louis' official website.
Starting August 20, St. Louis residents can apply for financial assistance through an online portal. Eligible applicants could see up to $500 credited directly to their water utility account. However, this is not a giveaway; those receiving assistance must enroll in a structured repayment plan via the Collector of Revenue's Office to settle any residual balance. The terms are flexible, offering options of a 6-month or 12-month plan suited to the size of their debt.
The initiative spotlights the city's resolve to ensure that all residents maintain access to essential services. "The assistance program demonstrates our ongoing commitment to ensuring access to essential services for all residents, particularly through challenging times. The program exemplifies our dedication to working with residents, providing them with the support and resources they need to regain stability. As always, we remain committed to finding innovative ways to serve our residents," Collector Gregory F.X. Daly emphasized in the City of St. Louis' press release.
