Council supports expanded low‑income assistance measures, directs staff on eligibility and timing

Albany City Deputy City Manager Kayla Barber Parrada presented a multi-part plan on Aug. 11 to expand and simplify the city’s low‑income assistance program and asked council to provide direction on timing and implementation.

Barber Parrada reviewed the existing program, which provides assistance for customers at or below 60% of state median income and a 50% credit on the city services fee (CSF). Staff reported the program covered 286 households in 2024 and about 153 households year‑to‑date in 2025; staff told council the reduced year‑to‑date participation appears consistent with statewide patterns and has not yet increased shutoffs.

Staff proposed several changes in phases. Immediate and near‑term items include increased outreach, a one‑stop online resource page, and improved shutoff notices. For program eligibility, staff proposed moving to a categorical-eligibility…