News

CPU Takes Action to Address COVID-19 Crisis and Potential Economic Hardships

During emergency situations, Clarksdale Public Utilities is prepared to respond — and that includes taking action to address the COVID-19 public health crisis.

CPU’s first priority is keeping employees and customers safe by taking preventive measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus in offices and work locations. CPU also understands that some customers may experience negative economic impacts that could affect their ability to pay bills.

“We are all aware of the current situation involving the coronavirus and the uncertainty that it has brought to everyone’s lives,” said Curtis D. Boschert, CPU general manager. “There are predictions from some sources that severe economic disruptions could have a significant financial effect on some of our customers. If such predictions were to materialize in our service area, CPU has in place policies and procedures that allow us to work with customers who are experiencing financial difficulties and to routinely grant extensions to those who cannot pay their utility bills.”

The Mississippi Public Service Commission has directed all utilities under its jurisdiction to suspend the disconnection of utility services for 60 days for customers who have not paid their bills. Even though CPU is not under the regulatory jurisdiction of the commission, members of the CPU Commission plan to address the issue at their March 24 meeting and discuss what CPU can do as a publicly owned utility to work with customers who are suffering financially as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.

“Obviously, we cannot stay in business and provide utility services to the people of Clarksdale unless our customers pay their bills,” Boschert said. “In these uncertain times, we are working hard to provide the best possible service to customers while being sensitive to their financial situations and working out individual payment plans, when necessary.”

Clarksdale Public Utilities is a municipally owned utility serving approximately 6,800 homes and businesses in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Its mission is to safely provide sustainable electric, water and wastewater services in a reliable and courteous manner by well-trained team members, committed to top quality, efficient operations, competitive rates and the vitality of the community.