Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Utilities topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council authorizes revised utility deposit policy allowing tenant accounts for duplex units
Summary
Spring City council voted to change its utility deposit policy so renters who contract utility service directly with the city are individually liable for unpaid bills; if the landlord holds the account, the landlord remains liable. The motion passed unanimously among members present.
Spring City — The Spring City City Council voted Thursday to revise the city’s utility deposit and account policy for rental units so that individual tenants may take service in their own names and be financially responsible for unpaid charges.
The ordinance change, advanced as a motion by Councilmember Ken Krug and seconded by Paul (surname not given), clarified that when a rental unit’s utility account is in the tenant’s name, the tenant is liable for unpaid balances; when the account is in a landlord’s name, the landlord remains responsible. The council described the change as a clarification and a new form the city will use to document whether the landlord or tenant holds the account.
Council discussion emphasized the practical effect for new duplex developments where each unit may have a separate meter: allowing tenants to contract directly with the city increases the number of billed accounts and city revenue, but also raised questions about deposit amounts and enforcement. Councilmembers said the deposit levels themselves and any adjustments to fees will be addressed at a later meeting; the current motion only established responsibility and authorized staff to implement a form and administrative process.
The motion carried by voice vote; council roll call recorded "yes" votes from Randy Strait, Marty McCain, Ken Krug and Courtney (surname given as Chen in the roll), and other members present. No 'no' votes were recorded on the motion.
