Leesburg Provides Funding for Utility Payment Assistance

Leesburg provides funding for utility payment assistance

            LEESBURG, FL - As an additional measure to assist utility customers who are experiencing financial challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Leesburg has increased funding for the Citizens Utility Relief Efforts (CURE) program.

            Established by the City Commission in 1991, the CURE program supports vouchers for customers who are unable to pay utility bills due to things such as loss of employment or an unexpected illness. The City contributes funds each year and donations are also received from the public. The program is administered by local organizations who ensure that applicants meet eligibility requirements and helps over 200 families annually.

            In April, Leesburg Electric transferred $50,000 to supplement the existing CURE balance. These funds were originally earmarked for energy efficiency rebates through the Florida Municipal Power Agency (FMPA) Conservation and Renewable Energy Advisory Conservation Program, and have been redirected with FMPA’s permission to serve the greater needs of the community.  In addition, on June 8 the City Commission allocated $37,000 from reserves for CURE, bringing the City’s contribution for this year to $95,000 and increasing the total amount available to $100,000.

     Leesburg utility customers who are having difficulty paying their utility bill are encouraged to contact the Customer Service Department at 352-728-9800 to set up a payment plan. The call center is open Monday – Friday from 8:00am until 4:30pm. Customers can also call this number for information on payment assistance.

            “Finding ways to assist our citizens during the pandemic is a priority for the City,” said City Manager Al Minner.  “We have already reduced the electric Power Cost Adjustment to zero and waived late fees for our utility customers.  Providing additional CURE funding is one more step in our efforts to help our residents who are struggling the most.”

            Anyone can donate to the CURE program to help those who are dealing with financial issues. One-time or recurring donations can be made with utility payments. One-time donations can also be made by check.  For information on the donation process, please contact the Customer Service Department.