Certain measures are in place providing relief to ratepayers experiencing economic hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please review this message in its entirety. For more information, please contact 609-654-2608 x308. A copy of this notice is available on our website as well: www.medfordtownship.com.
SERVICE SHUTOFF MORATORIUM
BE ADVISED that, Executive Order 229 currently prohibits a local government from shutting off water or electric service to a residential customer, or to accounts primarily serving residential customers, due to nonpayment of water, sewer, or electric charges unless the disconnection is to prevent or ameliorate a risk to public health or safety. This shutoff moratorium remains in effect until January 1, 2022.
LATE PAYMENT PENALTY AND LIEN ENFORCEMENT MORATORIUM
BE ADVISED that, until January 1, 2022, Executive Order 229 places a moratorium on local governments enforcing late payment charges and penalties on water or electric accounts, or referring a delinquent water or electric payment to tax sale. On or after January 1, 2022, charges and penalties may be imposed for delinquent payments, and any payments remaining delinquent may be referred to a tax lien sale held by the municipal tax collector.
BILL ASSISTANCE AND ARREARAGE FORGIVENESS PROGRAMS
The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) is currently developing a Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). This program is designed to assist water and sewer customers facing economic hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Further information will be provided once the program goes live.