At a special meeting held Monday, March 30, City of Kimberley council adopted the Utility Rates Penalty Deferral Bylaw that will see the penalty date for second quarter utility payments deferred by two months from June 10 to August 10, 2020.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, council is seeking several ways to support businesses and residents through this difficult time. This bylaw adoption will provide some financial relief for property owners who may be affected by current events by giving them two extra months to pay their utility bill.

Property owners who wish to pay by the original due date are encouraged to do so. The current bylaw stipulates that a 10% penalty be applied to any unpaid balance after the payment due date.

“This deferral will provide some much-needed short term relief for many in our community,” said Kimberley Mayor Don McCormick. “We are reviewing all available financial tools to help those who need it during this very uncertain time. Staff will continue to monitor for legislative changes that will allow for additional tax relief flexibility.”

Residents who pay utilities by auto-pay who wish to temporarily suspend their monthly payments, can complete and submit a form to City Hall. The form can be found HERE.

The Special Meeting of Council was held electronically as permitted by the Ministerial Order issued by the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General on March 26. The order also allows municipalities to adopt a bylaw on the same day that it has been given third reading.

City of Kimberley

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