Durango will waive late fees for all city utility bills and suspend water and sewer disconnection for missed payments through April 30 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a news release.
Local public health and government officials on Monday declared a public health emergency in attempt to limit the spread of a novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
While city utility services are expected to continue operation through the emergency declaration, Durango announced Monday that customer service employees “will work with customers on payment plan options for those who may find themselves unable to pay their bills in full during this time of difficulty,” according to the news release.
Local government buildings have restricted public access; Colorado Gov. Jared Polis ordered all restaurants, bars, cafes, theaters, gyms and casinos closed until further notice; Durango School District 9-R will be closed until at least March 25.
Durango utility customers are encouraged to call customer service at 375-5034 to discuss payment options, according to the release. City Hall is closed to the public – utility payments will be accepted online at durangogov.org/payments.
“We want to do what we can to take any worries we can off people’s plate,” said interim City Manager Amber Blake. “This is a very trying, challenging and stressful time. If we can waive late fees and make sure we don’t shut off water and wastewater, I feel like that is our responsibility.”
As of Tuesday morning, 160 cases had been confirmed in Colorado and one person has died from complications related to coronavirus infection. No cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in La Plata and Archuleta counties – fewer than 20 tests have been administered as of Monday.
San Juan Basin Public Health on Monday evening announced it “is operating under the assumption that COVID-19 may be circulating in our local communities, and is urging everyone to practice social distancing measures,” the agency posted on Facebook.
bhauff@durangoherald.com