(A) The municipality shall have the right to discontinue utility services and remove its properties if the charges for such services are not paid within seven days after the date that the charges become delinquent. Before any termination, the municipality shall first give notice by first-class mail or in person or by electronic delivery, to any domestic subscriber whose service is proposed to be terminated. If notice is given by first-class mail, such mail shall be conspicuously marked as to its importance. Electronic delivery shall be only used in such cases where a subscriber has specifically authorized its use in writing to the municipality. Service shall not be discontinued for at least seven days, weekends and holidays excluded, after notice is sent or given.
(B) The notice shall contain the following information:
(1) The reason for the proposed disconnection;
(2) A statement of the intention to disconnect unless the domestic subscriber pays the bill;
(3) The date upon which service will be disconnected if the domestic subscriber does not take appropriate action;
(4) The name, address and telephone number of the employee or department to whom the domestic subscriber may address an inquiry or complaint;
(5) The domestic subscriber's right, within three days after mailing of the notice, to request a conference regarding any dispute over such proposed disconnection;
(6) A statement that the municipality may not disconnect service pending the conclusion of the conference;
(7) That the cost that will be borne by the domestic subscriber for restoration of service;
(8) A statement to the effect that those domestic subscribers who are welfare recipients may qualify for assistance in payment of their utility bill and that they should contact their caseworker in that regard; and
(9) Any additional information not inconsistent with this section which has received, prior approval from the governing body.
(C) A domestic subscriber may dispute the proposed discontinuance of service by notifying the municipality with a written statement within three days after mailing of the notice that sets forth the reasons for the dispute and the relief requested. If a statement has been made by the subscriber, a conference shall be held before the municipality may discontinue services.
(1997 Code, § 3-402) (Ord. 2016-02, passed 4-19-2016)
Statutory reference:
Authority or similar provisions, see Neb. RS 70-1602 et seq.