Arlington Water Utilities returned city services account deposits to more 6,980 residential customers in October, following a city ordinance change adopted by the Arlington City Council. The change, which went into effect Oct. 1, allows Arlington Water Utilities to reward customers who have paid their city services bill on time for a 12-month period by crediting their deposit back to their account. The City credited a total of $562,520.57 on October city services bills as part of the policy implementation. Customers who received a credit were notified in October.
“We know that many Arlington residents are facing financial challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Arlington Water Utilities Director Craig M. Cummings. “Our hope is that the Arlington City Council’s approval of this ordinance change will put additional funds into customers’ hands at a time when it is especially needed.”
Most of the credits issued in October were for $80. They went to customers who had not had their deposit refunded under a previous policy. As more customers reach 12 months of excellent payment histories, the new policy will allow their deposit to be credited back to their accounts.
Like other utilities, Arlington Water Utilities collects a deposit when customers open accounts in order to limit the burden of unpaid debt on water rate payers. The current residential deposit required for Arlington residents is $140.
In July, the utility expanded its Care and Share Fund, a donation-supported fund that assists customers having trouble paying their bills. Now, three nonprofits - Catholic Charities, Mission Arlington, and Arlington Urban Ministries – can refer residential customers for assistance. Between Aug. 1 and Oct. 21, a total of $23,208 in Care and Share aid was distributed to 117 customers needing assistance.
To find out how to apply for Care and Share funds or donate to the program, visit the My Account tab on the Arlington Water webpage at www.ArlingtonTX.gov/water.
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