Why Phoenix is resuming water-service disconnections

Councilwoman Ann O'Brien

Submitted photo/City of Phoenix

Tell Us What You Think

What are your thoughts on disconnecting water service to seriously delinquent customers? Tell us in 300 words or less at yourvalley.net/letters, or email your comments, name, address and contact number to azopinions@iniusa.org.

OPINION — Beginning Nov. 1, Phoenix will resume water-service disconnections for customers with seriously delinquent city-services accounts.

Water shutoffs were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic and delinquent balances have continued to grow. More than 9,000 accounts currently carry nearly $24 million in past-due balances for water, wastewater and trash services.

Collecting these payments helps maintain the financial stability of our water utility.

The city is taking a phased approach, with notices and opportunities for customers to make payment arrangements or seek assistance before service is interrupted.

If you know someone who’s behind on their bill, please tell them to contact Phoenix Water Services at 602-262-6251 during regular business hours to make a payment.

If they need to make payment arrangement, they can email cityservicesbills@phoenix.gov with their information. Income-qualified households experiencing financial hardship may also be eligible for Project Assist and other programs.

SNAP guidance available

The city Human Services Department is offering SNAP navigation support to help residents apply for SNAP benefits and comply with requirements.

The initiative aims to reduce benefit loss by increasing successful submissions. Services include assistance with applications, renewals and work requirement compliance. Go to phoenix.gov/SNAPNav for assistance.

Phoenix does not determine eligibility, approve benefits or administer SNAP. All applications and renewals are processed by the Arizona Department of Economic Security.

Ann O’Brien represents District 1 on the Phoenix City Council. This was distributed as part of her newsletter. Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to azopinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.