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Terrell temporarily suspends water late fees and service disruptions during federal shutdown
Summary
The council approved a resolution temporarily suspending delinquent fees and service disconnections for water utilities for the duration of the federal government shutdown plus 30 days, a blanket policy to cover impacted residents.
The Terrell City Council on Oct. 21 approved a resolution temporarily suspending delinquent fees and service disruptions for water utilities for customers affected by the federal government shutdown. The suspension will run for the duration of the federal shutdown plus 30 days, the council directed.
Interim City Manager Mark Mills and staff told council they had considered requests for targeted relief for federal employees but recommended a citywide temporary policy instead of singling out a class of ratepayers. Council members voiced support for a blanket suspension to ensure equitable treatment and to avoid complicated eligibility determinations.
Resident Debbie Miller had raised the matter during public comment, saying she is a federal employee affected by the shutdown and had asked staff to waive a late fee. Mills and staff subsequently drafted the broader policy the council approved.
Vote: The council approved the resolution (Resolution No. 2271) by unanimous vote.
Ending: Staff will implement the temporary suspension for water utilities and inform customers of the policy; the city manager and finance staff will monitor the fiscal impact and report back if additional budget action is necessary.
