By Adam Ophus

Utility Penalties Waived

Town of Rocky doing what it can to help those struggling financially

Apr 7, 2020 | 3:18 PM

In an effort to assist Albertans affected by the current health crisis that the world sees itself in, the Alberta government is working with utility companies to help those in need by having their payments temporarily deferred.

The government is assuring residents that they will not have their services cut off or reduced during this time.

The program came into effect on March 18 and runs until June 19.

The Town of Rocky Mountain House will also be doing their part to help residents who may be struggling financially.

Communications Coordinator Laura Button stated that in regards to local residents’ water and garbage pickup, they will not have payment deferrals, but will not incur any penalties if they can’t pay the full balance.

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“Residents with payments owing after June 15 should contact the Town to work out a payment plan that works for them,” Button said about anyone who may have difficulties paying after the deadline.

Town council will also be considering waiving property tax penalties during its April 14 meeting.

As governments from all levels look to mitigate the financial damage sustained from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Town of Rocky has prepared financial forecasts based on facilities being closed until July 1 and August 1, 2020.

“Within the forecasts there are a couple of variables depending on various scenarios and lost user fees and rental revenue. The anticipated shortfall in these scenarios for the 2020 budget is $155,000 to $170,000 depending on the scenario,” Button explained.

She went on to state that Council has yet to decide whether to allocate the shortfall from reserves or elsewhere.