Utility billing

New resident and nonprofit operator asked whether monthly billing is for residents' benefit or the city's collections, and whether grant money exists to help owners of old properties with leaks.

She supported monthly billing and asked how garbage charges would be handled and what her roughly $500 quarterly bill would become per month.

He recalled decades of billing debate and asked whether monthly billing means a rate increase and whether it funds water system improvements.

He flagged the city's 50% collection rate and $38.2 million receivable, urging a major focus on collecting what's owed.

She worried monthly billing is a way to hide rate increases and said she's opposed if that's the motive.

She said monthly billing is fine for forgetful payers but the real fix is collections enforcement, especially against multifamily non-payers.

A seasonal business operator complained about a $5,175 quarterly bill for a property used only four months a year and said staff gave him attitude when he sought help.