AWWA JTMGT64445

This slide presentation outlines a project to develop an appropriate affordability program for a water utility. Program construction included: addressing the greatest needs; minimizing the administrative burden; determining the costs and benefits; and, paying for affordability. Structuring the benefit includes fixed dollar discount, fixed percentage discount, reduction or elimination of fixed charges, and need-based benefit. Minimizing administration includes avoid duplicate bureaucracies, reduce the effort to apply and re-apply, piggy-back on existing programs, and outsourcing. Examples are listed of piggy-backing and outsourcing. Projecting lost revenue, tips for estimating cost, means of payment, implementation considerations, communicating the new program, billing and customer service, and ongoing program management are all outlined.