Ensuring that utilities remain accessible and affordable to our residents and businesses is critically important. I want to make sure that you are aware of the financial assistance that is available directly from the City of Tigard and encourage you to take advantage of it if necessary.
Since the beginning of COVID-19, the City Council has approved $2.2 million in customer assistance as part of the Tigard AID Program. Over 185 customers have received Tigard AID funding so far. This means that 185 community members have had one fewer bill to pay and one fewer thing to worry about when they wake up in the morning. I am proud of the impact of the Tigard AID program, but I also know that we have reached only a small percentage of our those in need.
As a city, we are re-energizing our outreach efforts to ensure every eligible utility customer knows about the financial assistance available. You can determine if you’re eligible for funding at www.tigard-or.gov/aid. If you are, I strongly encourage you to apply.
I want everyone to be part of the outreach efforts, whether or not you are apply for funding. I ask that you share three simple messages with your neighbors, friends, and family in Tigard:
- We have expanded our financial assistance to multifamily tenants in apartments as well as commercial tenants.
- We have extended utility bill assistance to June 30, 2021.
- We have extended a waiver of late fees and water shut-off actions to Apr. 1, 2021.
By sharing this message, you will directly help those in our community who are struggling with difficult decisions about whether to pay their utility bill or pay for another essential item for their family.
Unfortunately, COVID-19 has not gone away, and as long as COVID-19 remains, the Tigard City Council will support those in need. Tigard AID, Tigard CARES, and Tigard RAFT were created at the beginning of the pandemic after we heard from you. I would like to hear from you again about how the city can best support you during COVID-19. I can be reached at jason@tigard-or.gov or via phone at (503) 810-0269. You are also invited to a virtual Fireside Chat on Thursday, Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m. on Facebook Live.
Our current response, and any future response, will further build a community that is more equitable, more inclusive, and more hopeful for generations to come.
– Jason Snider, Mayor
