07.07.20 Regular Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes July 7, 2020 12 customers 60 — 90 days = $8,645 Ms. Runkle mentioned that they are going working on an immediate customer outreach by using all mediums, web, paper, emails: "Need help to pay your utility bills? Call us!". Ms. Runkle stated that there will be no terminations until, at least, September 30 and prior to that, staff will bring back to council to evaluate. Staff will monitor assistance requests as this will inform us as to the level of support our citizens need — help determine duration and level. Ms. Runkle mentioned determining next steps in mid September, based upon: economy, student ability to pay, other possible programs. Ms. Runkle stated that the assistance options are deposits can be applied to outstanding bills, if the customer wants, offer a payment plan and City has a partnership with Community Action that has almost $100K that can help with utility payments. Community Action handles the qualifications and how many times a customer can apply for assistance. The City does not get involved in determining who is eligible. Ms. Runkle mentioned the "Click to help your Neighbors" Program: • Paper Bills already include a way for people to offer assistance by including extra money over their bill amount and the money goes to the assistance fund. • Our new software, beginning this week, will include an electronic way to contribute. • Customers are helping more in 2020 than in prior years: $1,500 as of this period last year — this year $1,700 in same period • We will not offer "incentives for giving" this lowers the available assistance Funds. Ms. Runkle stated staff is working on changing the Community Action, Inc who can only help individuals, not businesses. (CAI) Agreement for available assistance with more accessibility because the current contract only permit us to help low income residents, using federal guidelines. Any changes will require Council approval and staff will bring back with contract changes in August. Ms. Runkle mentioned that staff is working with our Economic Development staff and the Chamber of Commerce to determine if there are other agencies who can help in administering a commercial assistance program. They are exploring the use of CARES money to dedicate to the program. SUMMARY and RECOMMENDATIONS GOAL: To have a clear customer process and timeline City of San Marcos page 20