Utility Ratepayer Assistance Information

Governor Inslee has issued Proclamation 20-23, pertaining to Utility Ratepayer Assistance and Preservation of Essential Services. Lake Whatcom Water and Sewer District is committed to keeping our customers connected to essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic emergency. IF you are experiencing hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for support, including long-term payment arrangements or bill assistance. This Proclamation does not relieve customers from the obligation to pay for utility service.

LWWSD Regular Programs

The District has in place a rate reduction program for qualifying low income seniors and disable individuals. Information on that program and application form can be found here.

The District offers long-term payment arrangements to all customers with past-due or abnormally large balances. Information and payment arrangement request form can be found here. Payment plans are tailored to address individual customer needs and can be arranged by contacting our office. Office staff are available by phone during our normal business hours of 8 am – 5 pm Monday – Thursday. The office is currently closed to public in-person access until Whatcom County reaches Phase 3 of the state’s Safe Start plan.

LWWSD Covid-Response Programs

In recognition of potential economic impacts, the Board of Commissioners passed Resolution No. 865, effective through July 31, 2020. This end date may be revisited at a future Board Meeting. The response currently allows for the following:

• Temporary Suspension of Late Fees The District will not apply or collect late fees associated with delinquent utility accounts for the bills generated in April, May, June, and July 2020.
• Temporary Suspension of Service Terminations The District will not turn off water at any occupied premises solely due to unpaid utility charges.
• Temporary Suspension of Service Suspension Fees The District will not charge customers any fee for voluntary suspensions of service (billing suspension).

Once the resolution is lifted, customers will have a 60-day window to pay the charges on their account or enter into a formal payment plan with the District.

Other Resources

The Utilities and Transportation Commission will serve as the single point of contact within state government for customers seeking bill assistance information. You can reach the Utilities and Transportation Commission Consumer Hotline at 1-888-333-WUTC (1-888-333-9882) or by email at consumer@utc.wa.gov.

We recognize that it is unknown at this time what the overall impact of the COVID-19 pandemic will be on the world and our corner of it. During these unprecedented times, it is the District’s ultimate goal to ensure continued operation of our water and sewer systems. We remain committed to our organizational mission to be responsive to the needs of our customers and promote a safe work environment for our employees.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the District at (360) 734-9224.