New York City Councilman Felder of Brooklyn urges New Yorkers with outstanding sewer or water bills to contact the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) at (718) 595-7000 to avoid losing service. DEP recently resumed its shutoff enforcement program for residents with outstanding water bills. Single-family homes with outstanding balances for six months or longer, or those who owe more than $500 are at risk of having their water shut off until payment is received. Hundreds of shutoff notifications have already been mailed with more expected to be sent out soon.”People need to know that service will be shut off if they do not take action,” says Felder. “I urge anyone who thinks they may be at risk to contact DEP immediately.”
Councilman Felder recently sponsored an event with the DEP that assisted hundreds of property owners who were at risk for lien sales because of overdue water and sewer bills. Those who think they may be at risk of losing their water service are encouraged to call DEP Customer Service. Trained specialists are available to discuss
customers’ accounts and suggest a variety of payment options. Seniors and other customers with outstanding DEP bills may be eligible for a range of financial assistance programs offered throughout the City, including budgetary counseling and emergency loan and home improvement services.
(Elisha Ferber-Matzav.com Newscenter}
