Council addresses utility billing issues and hurricane recovery progress

During the City of North Augusta Council Study Session on May 12, 2025, significant discussions centered around the ongoing challenges with the utility billing system and the city's response to hurricane recovery efforts.

City officials reported improvements in customer service, noting that constituents are receiving prompt responses to their utility billing inquiries, often within the same day. This positive feedback highlights the effectiveness of the centralized customer service line, which has been well-received by residents. The city has not shut off any utility services since December 2024 and has suspended late fees since February 6, 2025, as they work through billing delays caused by system errors.

In addition to utility billing, the council addressed the ongoing debris removal from the soccer complex following hurricane damage. While the removal is progressing, further grading and gravel installation will take additional time due to weather conditions. The city is actively managing debris across various locations, with a focus on efficiency and safety. Officials aim to complete these operations by January, with plans to resume regular yard debris collection by June 2, 2025.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to improving service delivery and addressing the aftermath of the hurricane, reflecting a proactive approach to community needs and recovery efforts. As the city navigates these challenges, officials remain focused on enhancing communication and operational effectiveness for the benefit of North Augusta residents.