Albany council removes $100 water deposit for renters; councilors describe community response to recent SNAP cuts

The Albany City Council on Nov. 5 adopted a resolution eliminating the $100 deposit requirement for new water accounts for renters, and councilors used their reports to describe a community response to recent reductions in federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

Finance Director Gina Yeager told the council staff recommended removing the deposit because administering refunds is time-consuming and the change would remove a barrier for low-income renters. "One of the first things I did is sat down with the customer service supervisor ... and she told me that she thinks it would be a really great idea to remove the $100 deposit for new water accounts for renters," Yeager said. City staff said property owners would continue to be required to pay deposits under current practice and that the administrative savings likely make the change a wash for the city.

The council adopted the resolution by motion and second without recorded dissent in the meeting record.

During public comment earlier in the meeting, resident Kevin Slomire described friends and neighbors struggling after SNAP benefits were reduced, urging fair tax structures and noting the burden of rising costs. Councilors described an outpouring of local support: emergency food pantries established in elementary schools, neighborhood food sharing, and local organizations and individuals stepping up to distribute food and coordinate assistance. Councilors thanked volunteers and organizations (including school and student advocacy groups) for rapid action and encouraged continued community support.