HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021 10 25 Consent 302 - Accept Donations received to Help Residents with Past Due Utility Accounts • CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 302
,n m=ared CITY COMMISSION AGENDA I OCTOBER 25, 2021 REGULAR MEETING
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TITLE
Accept donations received to help residents with past due utility accounts.
SUMMARY
On October 7, 2021 one of our residents presented a check payable to the
City of Winter Springs in the amount of$5,000. The donor would like this
money to be applied to residential customer utility accounts who are
struggling financially with the effects of COVID19 and/or are delinquent in
paying those utility accounts for various other reasons. Not having a fair and
objective way to allocate this generous donation, staff reached out to the
Community Assistance Department at Seminole County for support. The
County is willing to share with the City's Utility Billing Department, applicants
who are residents of the City who have been approved by the County for
utility assistance and the amount for which they would be eligible. The City
would agree to provide that same benefit to these residents up to the amount
donated.
Should the Commission agree to accept the donation, staff will deposit the
check. Staff will reach out to the donor with a letter of gratitude regardless of
the Commission's decision. Should the Commission decide not to move
forward with accepting the donation, the check will be returned with a letter
of our appreciation for a willingness to assist those in need.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff requests the Commission accept the donation and give the City Manger
the authority to accept payment donations in the future intended for the
purpose of paying utility bills for our residents. Staff also requests the
Commission, allow the City to partner with the County (now and in the future)
to provide financial assistance to our resident applicants seeking assistance
up to the amount of the donations received.
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