As the City of St. Louis tackles the issue of past-due water accounts, significant changes have been made to the Water Utility Assistance Program aiming to help more residents manage their debt. Responding to the community outcry, the City has broadened the program's eligibility and extended the terms for repayment. With these updates, St. Louis residents facing water bill delinquency will find a more accessible pathway to settling their accounts.
The increase in overdue residential accounts, which soared to over 14,000 post-moratorium, has accumulated a debt surpassing $10 million, impacting the Water Division's maintenance capabilities. In response, the city initiated a new strategy in September to recover the funds by discontinuing water service for customers with delinquent bills. However, it is important to note, as the City of of St. Louis' announcement clarified, that water will not be shut off for customers impacted by the May 16 tornado.
Eligibility for relief now includes a wider range of households, up from those earning 60% of the Area Median Income to those earning 80%. The aim is to offer a one-time credit of up to $500 directly to water accounts in need. To partake in the program, residents must also commit to a repayment plan arranged by the Collector of Revenue’s Office. The repayment periods have been lengthened based on feedback, offering either 12-month or 24-month plans instead of the previous maximum of 12 months. According to the City of St. Louis, participation in the repayment plan will prevent service interruptions.
Overall, the City is dealing with more than 16,000 past-due accounts, which includes non-residential customers, amounting to over $14 million owed. The updated Water Utility Assistance Program is a financial recovery tool for the Water Division, striving to maintain its operational integrity. Residents needing to apply or seeking more information on this issue can visit the Water Division website or contact the Water Division customer service for assistance.
