Low-income renters get monthly utility credit

Low-income renters who live in multifamily buildings may have noticed a new credit on their monthly utility bill. According to a news release from the city, the credit “is designed to offset a portion of their monthly water and wastewater services. Eligible participants will automatically receive a maximum $200 a year credit, which will appear on monthly billing statements as the Austin Water Multifamily CAP Program Discount.” Christina Romero, the utility’s financial manager, explained that the new program “allows us to reach vulnerable customers who do not have a dedicated water meter, but nevertheless, pay for monthly water service. This program offers a safety net to thousands of customers who have traditionally been ineligible for Austin Water financial assistance through the Customer Assistance Program.” The program will expand later this year to include a small number of Austin Water customers who live in areas around Austin and are not customers of Austin Energy.