§ 86-60. Application for utility service—Required; base deposit amounts.

(a)

Base deposit amounts. Application for utility service shall be made with the billing coordinator or designee of the water and sewer department, who shall require a base deposit amount, along with appropriate service charges, for each customer as determined by a resolution of the mayor and city council.

(b)

Refund of deposit. The utility deposit required in subsection (a) of this section shall be retained by the city for 18 months, without interest, for so long as service is provided by the city to the customer. Provided the customer has maintained a good payment history (no more than one penalty in an 18-month period), no returned payments (checks, ACHs, credit cards during a 12-month period), no disconnects for non-pay during a 12-month period and there has been no damage to the City's system within said retained (18-month) time frame, the utility deposit will be refunded to the customer. However, the city retains the right to apply any refundable deposit against the customer's account(s) when an outstanding balance exists and then to refund any credit balance remaining.

(c)

Transfer of deposit. Deposits are transferrable from one location to another as long as there is no outstanding debt on the account, and the account remains under the same account holder's name. Any balance owed on previous account and a transfer fee will be due before service is connected at new location.

(d)

Poor payment policy (subsequent additional deposits). Established customers with a history of poor payment will be required to pay a deposit. Poor pay is defined as customer who has had either two NSF returns, including check, ACH, credit card or two disconnect for non-pay during the last consecutive 12-month period. (The poor payment policy will be applied to those not having a good credit history).

(e)

Name change on deposit. A deposit can only be transferred to a different customer in the event of death or divorce or when a business has purchased all assets and legal documents specifically state that the utility deposits are part of the deal to the new owners. Legal documents must be provided to substantiate qualification for transfer under this subsection.

(f)

Change of occupancy. At least three workdays' notice must be given, to the city to discontinue water and sewer service or to change occupancy. The outgoing party shall be responsible for all water consumed up to the time of departure or the time specified for departure, whichever period is longer. The new occupant shall apply for water service prior to of occupying the premises in order to have no interruption of service.

( Ord. No. 0-28-17, art. I, 1-4-18 )