ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Mayor Ken Welch on Friday announced a temporary waiver of late fees and notice fees for utility accounts in the wake of the recent hurricanes.
He also announced a temporary suspension of water meter lock-offs caused by non-payment.
The suspension of fees will remain in effect until Dec. 31, 2024, though the city said that date could change.
Additionally, lien filings and business tax late fees have been suspended temporarily.
City leaders said the goal of the decisions was to help residents recover from Helene and Milton.
“The damage and destruction from back-to-back hurricanes has caused a variety of challenges to citizens and businesses citywide,” said Mayor Welch. “When the city is able to do so, we strive to lessen the economic hardship facing our utility customers.
“Waiving late fees and suspending water meter lock-offs for those unable to make timely payments on their utility bills is one way we can provide financial relief during this difficult time,” he said.
According to a news release from the city:
- The waiver of fees and lock-offs applies to any utility bill for which payment is due on or after Sept. 25, 2024, through Dec. 31, 2024.
- If able, utility customers are encouraged to continue paying their bills to prevent their accounts from falling behind.
- Utility customers having trouble paying their bills are encouraged to call the Utility Customer Service Call Center at 727-893-7341 to make payment arrangements. The Utility Customer Service Call Center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
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