Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Utility Assistance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Astoria council approves six‑month utility assistance pilot for very low‑income households
Summary
Council approved a six‑month, income‑based utility assistance pilot that will provide roughly 10% relief to qualifying households (targeting 30% of area median income); Clatsop Community Action will administer the program for about $1,250 and the pilot budget is roughly $25,000.
The Astoria City Council voted on Oct. 6 to approve a six‑month utility assistance pilot aimed at households at 30% of area median income, staff said. The program is intended to test service demand and inform the 2026–27 budget.
"This program would roughly cost $25,000, and we'd pay CCA about $1,250 to administer that program," City Manager Scott Spence explained, referring to Clatsop Community Action (CCA). "This would be a 6 month program, so there'd be 3 billing cycles that households... could actually apply for." (City Manager Scott Spence)
Eligibility and benefit: Staff said the program is income‑based, tied to 30% of area median income and household size, and would provide roughly a 10% monthly relief depending on category placement. Councilor Davis noted a family of four would qualify only if annual income is at or below $28,900 under the pilot's parameters.
Administration and outreach: The city will partner with CCA to confirm eligibility; CCA will notify the city of approved households and the city will apply the reduction. Councilors asked staff to conduct outreach to seniors and other likely beneficiaries and explored future funding options—such as a bill roundup or donation program—to sustain assistance if demand exceeds the pilot budget.
Council action: Councilor Davis moved to approve the pilot; the motion carried by voice vote. Staff will monitor take‑up and report back with data to inform whether to expand or modify the program during the 2026–27 budget process.
