Austin Energy said Friday it has suspended utility disconnections for people who haven’t paid their bills in response to the community’s push to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.
The decision comes the day after Austin City Council Members extended a local disaster declaration related to the virus, and announced plans to protect Austin residents effect by either the virus or resulting economic fallout.
Council members Greg Casar and Delia Garza specifically mentioned stopping utility disconnections and asking landlords not to evict residents who fall behind on rent.
“As a municipally-owned utility, we are here to respond in times of need and support our customers who are experiencing difficulty paying their bills,” said Jackie Sargent, Austin Energy General Manager. “We put a process in place to prevent service disconnections and make it easy to get help with utility bills during this difficult time.”
Austin Energy said customers can be placed on a deferred payment plan, or receive assistance if eligible, but urged customers to stay current on their bills if possible.
Residential and commercial customers can get more information by calling 512-494-9400.
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