Submitted by Eastsound Water.

Eastsound Water has created a Service Fee Deferral Program to allow members to defer up to 3 months of service fees, postponing repayment until 2021 when installment payments will be added to your regular bills throughout next year. This is not a forgiveness of service fees. It delays your obligation during the current COVID emergency, with no interest, late fees or penalties for the remainder of 2020. This program is being offered on the honor system. Eastsound Water hopes that members who can pay their bill will pay their bill.

Eastsound Water is also funding a separate $15,000 financial assistance program available for both residential and commercial water users. This program will award credit to partially cover upcoming service fees. The Orcas Community Resource Center has agreed to work with Eastsound Water to manage the program for RESIDENTIAL water users. You may apply when you have a current water bill in hand, starting with bills issued in April. A portion of these funds has been reserved for the accounts billed April, May and June. The application form can be found at the bottom of the front page of orcascrc.org. You can also email holly@orcascrc.org or leave a message at 360-376-3184.

Commercial water users also have access to financial help but will make an application directly to EW. Email your request for an application to assistance@eastsoundwater.org. Applications will be accepted through April 24. Learn more about these programs at eastsoundwater.org/new-financial-assistance-programs/.