Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Utilities Payments topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Officials weigh municipal credit-card payments to avoid late fees but worry about transaction costs
Summary
Board members debated using a credit card or online payments for municipal utility bills to prevent late fees; concerns included per-transaction card fees, treasurer access and security-code logistics, and whether ACH/debit options require two signers.
Board members discussed a proposal to place municipal utility payments on a credit card or use online payments to cut late fees. Supporters argued a card would prevent late payments; opponents highlighted that many utilities charge per-transaction fees (examples of $1.50–$2.95 per bill), and that municipal accounts often require two signees for ACH debits. Committee member warned, "We are gonna get fees on the card," and members asked staff to quantify expected fees before proceeding.
The treasurer’s limited onsite schedule (twice a month) and mail delays were cited as causes of late payments. Members agreed to investigate alternatives, including whether neighboring municipalities (Dave Fleming was suggested as a contact) set up clerk-authorized ACH or other processes that avoid per-bill fees. Staff was tasked to check fee schedules and return with options for the board to consider.
