PALM SPRINGS — The Desert Water Agency Board of Directors voted unanimously this week to continue the Agency’s customer relief efforts through mid-July, after reflecting on the significant impacts the community has seen due to COVID-19,
Desert Water Agency will not turn any customer’s water off if they fail to pay their bill, nor will it collect any late fees. Additionally, the Agency is absorbing the credit-card processing fees that customers previously paid.
“Tap water is absolutely essential – especially during a public health crisis,” Desert Water Agency Board President, Joseph K. Stuart said in a prepared statement. “We’re proud that we can safely and reliably provide it and help those in our community who have lost income.”
So far, Desert Water Agency’s changes to accommodate customers have saved them about $75,000. In addition, the Agency’s customer assistance fund has issued thousands of dollars in bill credits.
Bill credits are available for any Desert Water Agency residential customer financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds are from a program called Help2Others funded by agency employees, vendors and the agency itself. Customers can now fill out a simple web form for expedited approval (www.dwa.org/h2o). United Way of the Desert manages the fund and makes sure people qualify. DWA is looking into expanding its fund to cover small businesses and condo associations. The Agency currently has ample funding available for these credits.
For those that can afford to help, United Way of the Desert and DWA welcome donations for the Help2Others fund. Donations are accepted by United Way of the Desert by clicking here or by calling 760-323-2731 extension 100 – please mention Desert Water Agency H2O when completing your donation.
The Agency is encouraging those who can pay their bill to do so – that way there isn’t a large outstanding amount when the bill comes due. Customers who want to set up payment plans should contact the Agency at 760-323-4971, extension 129.
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