Mainstreet Daily News
In a continuing effort to provide financial relief during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Newberry City Commission approved a reduction to the power cost adjustment (PCA) rate that electric customers will see on their monthly bill. The Commission adopted a negative PCA, meaning that customers will receive a credit on their utility bill this month. This is the second consecutive month that the City has issued a credit to customers. City staff made the recommendation for an emergency power cost reduction to provide emergency relief to customers in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The PCA is the mechanism by which the fluctuation of fuel costs is passed on to the customer.
Since March, the City has reduced bills for its residents and businesses by over $75,000. For a residential customer, this will reduce their overall rate by approximately 13 percent per month. For a commercial or industrial customer, a similar reduction will be reflected.
“Many of our residents are struggling,” said Mike New, City Manager. “The City understands and cares, and I am glad we can do the right thing and stand with our friends, family, and neighbors during this difficult time and to show our support of the community.”
The PCA rate reduction is one of many steps the City is taking to meet the needs of its customers during these uncertain times. The City has additionally set up a utility assistance fund to help residents with their bills. The City is matching donations to the fund. Residents wishing to round their bill up to make a donation to the fund should contact Customer Service or donate using PayPal (click here).
Utility bills and/or debt will not be forgiven or erased. The City will work with affected customers to make payments to the best of their ability in order to prevent the accumulation of a larger balance.
Customers who are unable to pay their bills or do not have any options other than cash are urged to call 352-472-2161 ext. 1 or email UtilityBilling@ci.newberry.fl.us or using the City’s new live chat feature on its website (click here).