San Francisco approves $9.3M for wastewater debt assistance under American Rescue Plan

In a recent San Francisco County government meeting, officials took a significant step to support residents and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) received retroactive authorization to accept and expend approximately $9.3 million in federal funds aimed at alleviating wastewater account arrears accrued between March 2020 and June 2021.

This funding, sourced from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and administered by the state Water Resources Control Board, is designed to assist eligible residential and commercial customers who struggled to pay their wastewater bills during the pandemic. The SFPUC highlighted that this initiative follows a previous approval for water and power debt relief, showcasing a comprehensive approach to utility support during these challenging times.

During the meeting, SFPUC representatives emphasized the importance of these funds, noting that they have already been fully distributed to cover all arrears and provide discounts to customers. Approximately 80% of the funds were allocated to residential customers, while 20% went to commercial entities. The swift distribution of these funds was crucial, as they needed to be allocated within 60 days of receipt.

The committee members expressed their gratitude for the efforts made by the SFPUC staff in securing these funds, with several members requesting to be added as co-sponsors of the resolution to further demonstrate their support. They acknowledged the critical role of the SFPUC in maintaining a reliable water system, especially in light of recent water crises in other regions, such as Jackson, Mississippi.

The resolution was passed unanimously, with plans to present it to the full Board of Supervisors for final approval. This decision marks a vital step in ensuring that San Francisco residents and businesses can recover from the financial impacts of the pandemic, reinforcing the city’s commitment to supporting its community during difficult times.