Utility disconnections and late fees will be suspended in Richmond during government shutdown
The City of Richmond will not disconnect utility customers or collect late fees as long as the federal government remains shut down, Mayor Danny Avula announced on Friday. The pause began on Nov. 1.
"We will maintain your connection, and we will work with you to create a payment plan," Avula said.
He spoke at a gathering of city leaders who discussed the work Richmond is going to mitigate the impacts of the government shutdown, which is now the longest in United States history.
The event was held at Hillside Court, drawing attention to the potential impacts to public housing if the shutdown continues.
Avula said the city has a $4 million grant currently on hold in the housing space.
"We do need the federal government," he said. "There's no way around the significant amount of federal dollars that come in to support local needs."
SNAP food benefits are being continued through the state at the moment, with that money being distributed on a weekly basis.
State Delegates Michael Jones and Rae Cousins, as well as Sen. Lamont Bagby, attended. Jones was one of many speakers to salute the work of Feed More.
New Feed More CEO Dennis Hatchett said final numbers aren't available yet, but characterized the week as "much busier than normal," and thanked the volunteers who stepped up to help distribute food.
Avula encouraged citizens who want to help to considering joining the city's Community Emergency Response Team, which is working to assist where needed.
RPS Superintendent Jason Kamras said the school system will continue to work to provide food to those who need it, and students and families in need can email careandsafety@rpsschools.net with any questions.
Avula said the city will continue monitoring the situation.
"The strength of our city and our region does not come from the work of any single department or organization," he said. "It comes from us."
Contact Michael Phillips at mphillips@richmonder.org. This story has been updated since its initial publication.
