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Council reviews criteria for writing off uncollectible accounts, asks staff for collection options
Summary
Council reviewed staff recommendations and criteria for writing off uncollectible utility and miscellaneous accounts but did not vote; members requested options for improved collections including higher deposits, owner co-signers, or payment plans.
City staff presented criteria and a recommended resolution to write off uncollectible utility and miscellaneous billing accounts, but council declined to vote and instead asked staff to return with options for strengthening future collections.
City Manager Todd Clark said the city follows procedures to pursue delinquent accounts but that some accounts meet criteria for write-off, including debts beyond statutory limitations, bankruptcy discharges, deceased debtors with no estate, or cases where collection costs would exceed the amount to be collected. Staff recommended adopting a resolution to write off identified accounts and a related budget ordinance amendment.
Council discussed possible future collection strategies—higher deposits, placing rental properties’ owners on accounts or requiring co-signers, and payment-plan options—and requested staff present options. No vote was taken on the write-offs at the June 15 meeting.
