EASTHAMPTON — The city is trying to spread the word: Those with past-due water and sewage bills need to pay by the need of the month to avoid additional fees.
Past-due water and sewage accounts will be liened on Sept. 1, which is a routine matter done every year. However, there has been a significant increase in those who have not paid their bills, according to the Department of Public Works office manager, Patricia Cotton.
Out of 5,700 services in the city, 680 of them have past due bills, Cotton said.
It’s a “big jump” from last year, Cotton says, where 515 services went on lien. But many people pay at the last minute, Cotton said.
Lien fees are $20 for each invoice and are charged quarterly, but Cotton said fees can go up to $160.
A notification has been on each bill for the last three months, warning people about possible lien charges on past due bills, Cotton said. The city has also used social media to get the word out.
For questions, call the DPW office at (413) 529-1410 or visit the office at 50 Payson Avenue.