Rutland cracks down on water, sewer payment delinquencies

Staff report

Rutland City may shut off water and sewer for residents who aren’t paying their bills for the first time in more than 10 years. 

Rutland City Treasurer Mary Markowski told the Board of Aldermen Monday, May 15 that such a move is unprecedented in her tenure.

“Collection is difficult but there are consequences to not paying,” she said. 

The last time the city shut off water was around 2009, Markowski said in a later phone interview.  

Collection for both water and sewer and tax bills has been an ongoing issue. There are  around 400 delinquent homeowners,totaling about  $458,000  owed to the city. Markowski said.

Markowski recently sent out 25 letters notifying people that water will be shut off at the end of the month if they don’t come up with a payment agreement.

The 25 homeowners account for 40% of the total owed to the city. The highest amount owed from a singular resident is about $17,000, Markowski said. 

Markowski explained for those in multi-family homes at risk of losing water, the city would work with the homeowner and tenants on shut offs.

“There are specific rules on shut offs,” she said. “If you got a notice, we want to see you. We want to talk to you.”