MSD customers struggling to pay utility bills due to the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic can now find assistance through an ordinance passed by the Louisville Metro Council.
The $10 million Metro COVID-19 Relief Funds ordinance was approved by the council Thursday, December 10. Four million of the council’s allocation is dedicated to Louisville Water and Louisville MSD bills.
MSD Executive Director Tony Parrott said the assistance comes when help is needed more than ever before.
“As our community and the World faces the growing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to help those who are struggling through no fault of their own,” Parrott said. “We are grateful for the actions of Mayor Fischer and our Metro Council for providing utility payment assistance for our Louisville customers facing economic hardship.”
The newly approved Metro COVID-19 Relief Funds for utility payment assistance will be available in January 2021 to Louisville Water and MSD customers who live in Jefferson County. Louisville Water and Louisville MSD are working to create a customer service portal that will serve as an easy pathway to apply for the funds.
“We applaud this community effort to support those who have felt the negative impact of COVID-19,” said Spencer Bruce, President and CEO of Louisville Water. “This support is an important step in helping customers get back on their feet and we’re grateful for the opportunity to distribute the funds to those in need.”
In mid-March, 1,900 customers were behind on their Louisville Water/Louisville MSD bill. As of December 1, 2020, 17,700 residential customers in Jefferson County are behind on their Louisville Water/MSD bill, with an average outstanding balance of $514 owed.
