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City Council Meeting Minutes March 16, 2021 <br />community better. Would like to know if CAI is having issues with people that <br />may be eligible for funding. Ms. Kalka stated people are struggling to complete <br />and qualify for the full application which serves as an application for multiple <br />assistance programs which is why staff is recommending a one-page <br />application for utility assistance. Discussion ensued about eligibility <br />requirements for our program. <br />Mr. Lumbreras stated we were not trying to base this on income levels but <br />prioritization to older accounts. He suggested not to exceed income levels but <br />direction will need to come from Council on the income amount. <br />Council Member Baker suggested using the $1.2M to pay off all residents <br />accounts vs. applying to receive funds. Ms. Kalka stated the total amount will <br />change monthly. Mr. Cosentino stated this is more of an administrative task <br />and does not see a legal issue. <br />Mr. Lumbreras noted that we have to determine these funds are going toward <br />a "public purpose." We also need make the determination that there is a need <br />for each person for whom we provide funds for their utility payments. <br />Council Member Gleason would like to do this as an application process. <br />Council Member Garza stated that historically, the City has had difficulty <br />understanding the city's needs including homelessness and hunger. <br />Ms. Kalka noted the benefit of making contact with these residents. If they <br />can't pay between March and August, then they will still be eligible for cut-off <br />due to lack of payment. <br />Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Scott stated paying across the board and going into <br />the right accounts and could be a kick start for the citizens. <br />Mayor Pro Tem Derrick suggested mailing letters that a certain amount will be <br />paid but will need to call and schedule an appointment. <br />Council Member Gonzales stated he agrees with Ms. Derrick. A simple <br />statement will be find but those who will benefit should initiate the payment <br />action. <br />Mayor Hughson noted that if we pay it all off without customer input, it <br />penalizes those who have been trying to make payments. She state that if <br />City of San Marcos page 22 <br />