Mayor Schave

A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR SCHAVE

July 30, 2021

As we head into August, the City is preparing for the 2022 Budget Process, election of new City Council Members, and place before voters within Hoquiam and Aberdeen (the proposed service boundaries of the Central Grays Harbor Regional Fire Authority) at an election to be held on November 2, 2021, a proposition calling for the approval of the Plan and the creation of the Central Grays Harbor Regional Fire Authority, to be initially funded by a property tax not to exceed $1.00 per thousand, a permanent EMS Levy of $.50 per thousand, a benefit charge as outlined in the Plan, and ambulance utility fees. You can find more information on the RFA at https://www.aberdeenwa.gov/414/AFD--HFD-Cooperative-Efforts-Feasibility. 

 On March 18, 2020 Washington Governor Jay Inslee issued Proclamation 20-23 in response to economic impacts related to global coronavirus and Covid-19. The Proclamation has been amended and extended several times since then. The Governor stated this will be the final extension, ending on September 30, 2021 at midnight, Proclamation 20-23.16 prohibits energy, telecommunication, and water utilities from:

• Disconnecting due to nonpayment on an active account unless it is requested by the customer.
• Refusing to reconnect a residential customer who was disconnected due to nonpayment.
• Charging fees for late payment or reconnection of service.
• Disconnecting any residential customer who has requested assistance from the utility’s Covid-19 Customer Support Program.

As you know, residents of Aberdeen and Grays Harbor County have been struck hard by the economic impacts of the pandemic. Unfortunately, this has led to a number of Aberdeen residents falling behind on their utility payments. Currently, Proclamation 20-23.16 and its restrictions are set to expire on September 30, 2021. Aberdeen is exploring its options to help our residents catch up on past due payments. 

 Sincerely,

Mayor Schave