City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities offering utility relief assistance

The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities is currently accepting applications from customers that have fallen behind on their utility bills as a result of an economic hardship due to COVID-19.

The COVID-19 Municipal Utility Relief Program funding provided by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) is being administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and supports municipal utility relief efforts during the pandemic. Funding is designed to be a one‐time opportunity, with one payment per household or business. This assistance is in addition to the moratorium suspending disconnections issued by the City in early March, which remains in effect.

“I am thankful for Governor Northam’s leadership and his continued efforts to keep all Virginians safe during the pandemic,” said Mayor Stoney. “This allocation of funds for utility relief highlights our commitment to public health and safety, and this assistance will go a long way in helping our customers that have been hit hardest to recover from the financial impacts of the pandemic.”

DPU Director Calvin D. Farr, Jr. notes, “This pandemic has left many in our community financially vulnerable, so we’re pleased to be able to offer additional targeted financial assistance and help residents reduce their past due utility balances.” In addition to any relief that may result from an awarding of funds under this program, DPU continues to work with customers experiencing financial hardships. Extended payment plans have been established as well as automatic payment plans for eligible customers. As always, customers experiencing economic hardships are encouraged to contact DPU at (804) 646-4646 to discuss their payment options. Director Farr adds, “Ensuring residents have access to utility services remains our priority.”

To be eligible for funding under this Relief Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a customer of the City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities with active utility service;
• Have experienced/been impacted by an economic hardship due to COVID-19;
• Have fallen behind on their City water, wastewater or natural gas utility bill for services during the period of March 1, 2020 through December 30, 2020;
• Have not received any other forms of local relief or financial assistance for their City utility services; AND
• Submit a completed application where all information is valid and legible. Please read the instructions carefully. Your application must be received by midnight Sunday, January 17, 2021.

With the quick turnaround for the application process, eligible customers are encouraged to apply immediately. More information, including the application, is available at www.rva.gov/public-utilities. Customers may also request an application via email to DPUCares@richmondgov.com or pick one up at any of the following locations:

• City Hall | 900 E. Broad Street, Room 115
• East District Initiative | 701 N. 25th Street
• Southside Community Services Center | 4100 Hull Street