New exemptions were put in place by determining risk based on credit score. This risk determination is the same system many other municipalities and private utility providers are using. We then found there are some citizens who don't have credit but do have a long history with the city. We are modifying the deposit requirement by establishing good credit with the city. This modification is our own and based on observation over the past few months.
Where is your deposit money should you be required to pay a deposit? It sets completely idle until you disconnect and final bills paid in full or meet the criteria for a lesser deposit. When you meet any of the aforementioned criteria your deposit will be refunded. Some criteria may require another credit score check. The city is not collecting deposits to help pay for any upgrades. In January of 2016, the city was owed $145,000 in unpaid utility bills. Not only was I aware of this before being elected, but the audit brought it up. The citizens petitioned an audit costing $38,000 dollars. I and the auditors wanted to know what we were doing to collect on these monies and how we are going to stop it from continuing. Thus a new deposit requirement and collections were established.
- Rich Hill Alderman Jason Rich
