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Committee recommends waiving late fees and water shutoffs on a case-by-case basis for furloughed federal workers
Summary
The committee recommended Resolution No. 25-38, authorizing the city to suspend late fees and water shutoffs on a case-by-case basis for residents affected by the federal government shutdown; staff said the measure mirrors past pandemic-era relief and requires proof of furlough.
The Box Elder Finance, Legal and Public Safety Committee voted to forward Resolution No. 25-38, which authorizes the city or an authorized representative to suspend late fees and water shutoffs on a case-by-case basis for residents affected by a federal furlough.
Carla Fitchin, city staff standing in for Renee, told the committee the proposal was prompted by the federal government shutdown that began on Oct. 1 and the resulting furloughs among federal workers. "This will be case by case," Carla said, explaining staff felt it was necessary to provide guidance to allow waivers of late fees for affected residents.
A committee member asked how residents would request relief. The public works director explained the resident would come into the city office to meet with the public works director (and another staff member), provide proof of federal employment and furlough status and reach a reasonable agreement; the waiver applies only to late fees and does not erase the underlying bill. Staff noted a similar approach was used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
After the discussion, a motion to approve Resolution No. 25-38 and forward it to the City Council with a recommendation of approval passed (recorded as "Aye"). The resolution will be considered by the full council at its meeting later the same evening.
