The City's Water and Power Department (PWP) could temporarily pause and adjust utility billing processes for customers affected by the wind and fire disaster, based on a City staff report.
At a special meeting on Friday, in response to the devastating Eaton wildfire disaster, the Pasadena City Council will vote on several key measures aimed at assisting those who were displaced or lost their homes or businesses in the wake of the wildfire.
The measures would pause the billing process for customers whose accounts were closed due to the loss of their home or business in the Eaton wildfire, suspend collection of late fees for up to 60 days for customers displaced during mandatory evacuation orders.
Service interruptions for non-payment would be suspended for up to 60 days for customers affected by the wildfire.
The Eaton wildfire, which began on January 7, caused widespread damage across Pasadena and Altadena, displacing thousands and leaving significant destruction in its wake. Strong winds and the fast-moving blaze threatened entire neighborhoods, and over 7,000 structures were reported damaged or destroyed.
PWP serves more than 165,000 residents in Pasadena, Altadena, and parts of San Gabriel, providing both water and electricity to these areas.
With many residents facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives and properties, PWP is offering relief to customers by halting utility billing and collections for up to 60 days. This temporary suspension is intended to ease financial strain during the recovery process, giving displaced residents time to stabilize their situations.
The decision comes as part of PWP's broader commitment to supporting the community during the aftermath of the disaster, prioritizing recovery and ensuring that essential services like water and power remain accessible to those in need.
The council's resolution allows for these measures to remain in place for up to 60 days, offering much-needed financial relief to wildfire victims while ensuring that utilities continue to function as residents and businesses begin the long recovery process.
The city last suspended billing during the COVID-19 pandemic.