SERVICE SHUTOFF MORATORIUM BE ADVISED Exec Order 229 currently prohibits a local government from shutting off water or electric service to a residential customer, or to accts primarily serving residential customers, due to nonpayment of water, sewer, or electric charges unless the disconnection is to prevent or ameliorate a risk to public health or safety. This shutoff moratorium has been extended to 03/15/2022.
LATE PAYMENT PENALTY AND LIEN ENFORCEMENT MORATORIUM Until 03/15/2022, there is a moratorium on local governments enforcing late payment charges and penalties on water or electric accounts, or referring a delinquent water or electric payment to tax sale. On or after 03/15/2022, charges and penalties may be imposed for delinquent payments, and any payments remaining delinquent may be referred to a tax lien sale held by the municipal tax collector.
BILL ASSISTANCE AND ARREARAGE FORGIVENESS PROGRAMS The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs is currently developing a Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). This program is designed to assist water and sewer customers facing economic hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Further information will be provided once the program goes live.
OPPORTUNITY TO REPAY ARREARAGES IN INSTALLMENTS BE ADVISED that residents experiencing economic hardship during COVID-19 and who are behind on their water and/or sewer payments may be eligible to enter into an agreement whereby the resident agrees to pay their arrearages in installments over a period of time. As part of the agreement, the resident must keep up to date on all current charges. For more information on repaying arrearages in installments, contact the Water & Sewer Dept.
For more information please go to our website at www.Montvillenj.org or contact the Water & Sewer Dept. at 973-331-3330.