During the pandemic, Columbus city officials suspended utility shut-offs. But now, with health mandates lifted, they’re warning thousands of residents that the process will be ramping up again soon. The city began sending notices this week.
As of July 1, nearly 45,000 water customers in Columbus or nearby communities were behind and almost 3,000 power customers were in arrears as well.
City officials are encouraging residents to consider payment plans or assistance programs including one funded by the federal CARES act offering as much as $750 for water and $500 for power.
The moratorium on shut offs officially ends August 23, but because the process takes time, actual shut-offs may not begin until October.
