Cleveland Water and Cleveland Public Power will not shut off customers’ utility service for non-payment for the next 30 days, starting Nov. 7, the city announced today.
The moratorium on utility service interruptions is an effort to help people affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown and cuts to SNAP benefits, said Mayor Justin Bibb. The shutdown began on Sept. 30, and most federal workers are not getting paid. SNAP (the Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program) serves 170,000 people in Cleveland.
“No one should have to choose between keeping the lights on and putting food on the table,” Bibb said in a statement. “This moratorium is about giving our residents breathing room, stability and dignity while Washington works to resolve this crisis.”
The moratorium applies to all residential customers. Water and electricity rates will stay the same, and customers will still be charged for usage during the moratorium. Cleveland Public Power and Cleveland Water do not assess late fees for past-due balances.
For information about Cleveland Water assistance programs, click here or call 216-664-3130. For information about Cleveland Public Power assistance programs, click here or call 216-664-4600.
This story was updated to clarify that the moratorium applies to all Cleveland Water customers, not just those living in Cleveland.
