Utility Shutoff Moratorium Ends On Sept. 30

Kirstin Davis, Communications Manager - Public Works & Utilities, 509.625.7773

Friday, September 24, 2021 at 2:10 p.m.

The City of Spokane is reminding its utility customers that the statewide moratorium on water shutoffs and late fees expires on September 30; the moratorium had been in place since March 2020.

The City remains committed to assisting customers while our community recovers from the pandemic. Interest-free payment plans are available for residential and commercial customers today. An easy-to-use online form is available on the City’s web site.

Low-income households facing financial hardship also can seek help through a couple of programs, including:

  • The City’s U-Help program. The U-Help program provides low-income households with emergency financial assistance to help pay for their City utility bills, which include charges for water, wastewater, stormwater and garbage collection. Through the end of 2021, the program includes additional flexibility to allow more customers to receive help. Assistance is available by calling SNAP (Spokane Neighborhood Actions Programs) at 456-SNAP.
  • Rent Assistance programs funded with federal dollars. These programs also can assist with utility charges. City residents can go to the City’s web site for more details. City utility customers who live outside the City can call SNAP at 456-SNAP for information on the County’s program.

The City is tracking other possible sources of financial assistance and will provide updated information as more programs become available.

Meanwhile, Mayor Nadine Woodward and the City Council will consider a transition period for customers to get up to date on utility payments following the end of the moratorium. For more information on City utility bills and payment options, call 3-1-1.