Jon Johnson File Photo/Gila Herald: Safford continues to assist residents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Staff Reports
SAFFORD – The Safford City Council extended its 10 percent discount on residential utility bills due in May, which will result in roughly $40,000 in savings to its customers.
The city previously instituted a 10 percent discount for gas and electric utility bills for April.
Safford Mayor Jason Kouts lobbied for the extension during the city council meeting Monday. Due to COVID-19 restrictions limiting gatherings to 10 people or less, the public was not allowed in the meeting but could all in to hear it or follow on the Zoom application.
In total, the council approved an additional $240,000 in relief to area residents among the COVID-19 pandemic. The measure includes extending the deadline for payment of April’s utility bills from April 14 to April 20, which is in addition to a two-week extension already applied in March and allows residents time to receive federal government stimulus payments. The council also agreed to waive late fees for those who receive Social Security checks after the 20th of each month; provide a one-time $10 discount – through April 30 – for customers who enroll in autopay; and waive the city’s $50 business license fee through fiscal year 2020/21.
“Hard times and periods of crisis show the heartbeat of a city and reveal the teamwork and ingenuity it takes to keep moving forward,” Safford Mayor Jason Kouts said. “I would like to personally thank all of the volunteers, doctors, nurses, medical staff, first responders, grocery clerks, and all behind the scenes employees who are bravely on the front lines. My heart and prayers are with you and for you.
Remember, we are all in this together and we will get through this.”
