Title
Utility Penalty Deferral
Proposed Motion
That Council approve to eliminate utility penalties for the failure to pay current water, bulk water, waste water, and curbside garbage pickup, for residential and non-residential property owners between March 18, 2020 and June 18, 2020.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the proposed motion, as presented.
Purpose
Bylaw 1998-19 Waterworks System and Bylaw 2003-01 Wastewater impose utility penalties for residential and non-residential owners. Council, in accordance with Section 347 of the Municipal Government Act, has authority to cancel, reduce, refund, or defer taxes.
Summary
Parkland County residents may be facing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. The Federal Government along with the Government of Alberta have already enacted measures to enable residents to avoid late penalties on select bill payments.
Parkland County levies utility bills to residents for the provision of water, bulk water, wastewater, and curbside waste collection. Any unpaid amounts are subject to late payment penalties.
At the municipal level, Council can elect to defer or cancel penalties on late utility payments to ease the burden on rate payers suffering financial hardship.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications:
Municipal Government Act, Section 347
Responsible Leadership: maintain the public's trust through transparent and fair decision-making, superior service delivery, and effective communication
Financial Impact:
Cost: $10,000
Source of Funding: Extreme Events Restricted Surplus