City proposes changes to utility shutoff policies to aid residents with past due balances

During the recent Nibley City Council meeting held on March 14, 2025, discussions centered on proposed changes to the city's utility billing practices aimed at assisting residents struggling with delinquent balances. The council highlighted the need for adjustments to the current shutoff policy, which has been a concern for many residents facing financial difficulties.

The proposed changes would reduce the shutoff period from 70 days to 40 days, allowing residents to catch up on their payments more quickly. This adjustment is intended to help residents manage their bills more effectively and reduce the accumulation of late fees, which currently stand at a 1.75% penalty for overdue balances. The council noted that many residents have been paying only the minimum required to avoid shutoff, often leaving them with substantial past due amounts.

In a recent shutoff week, the city reported that all 20 residents on the shutoff list managed to make payments, indicating a willingness to address their debts. However, many of these payments were for services used months prior, highlighting the ongoing challenge of timely bill payments. The council emphasized that the new policy aims to alleviate the burden of large balances and encourage timely payments, ultimately benefiting both residents and the city’s revenue collection.

Additionally, the council discussed the lack of government assistance programs specifically for water bills, which has compounded the difficulties faced by some residents. While programs exist for heating assistance, water utility support has been discontinued, leaving residents with fewer options for financial relief. The city plans to distribute flyers to inform residents about available programs that could help them manage their overall utility expenses.

The council also addressed the implications of potentially withholding city services, including trash collection, for residents who fall behind on their water bills. This measure aims to provide the city with leverage to ensure timely payments, particularly in developments where multiple units share a single water meter.

Overall, the council's discussions reflect a proactive approach to utility management, focusing on supporting residents while ensuring the city can maintain its financial health. The proposed changes are expected to be implemented soon, with the hope that they will lead to improved payment behaviors and reduced financial strain on residents.