Bill > PR26-0279

This emergency resolution addresses critical issues surrounding water billing, service disconnections, and legal authorities for the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water). The resolution seeks to clarify DC Water's legal authority to impose late payment fees on water service charges, addressing a potential legal ambiguity that has existed since 1996 when previous legislation did not fully specify fee assessment powers. The resolution highlights a significant challenge with $35.5 million in unpaid water bills and recent disconnection efforts affecting 331 properties, with 42 properties having their water service disconnected. Of particular concern are multifamily residential buildings where tenants may be unaware of their building's billing status and could be disproportionately impacted by service interruptions. To address these challenges, the resolution mandates that DC Water provide monthly reports to the Council, Office of the Attorney General, and Office of the Tenant Advocate regarding disconnection activities, which will help agencies better understand and assist vulnerable populations. The emergency declaration allows for immediate implementation of these provisions, aiming to provide clarity on billing practices, protect tenants, and improve transparency in water service management.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/PR26-0279