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CPU is Focused on Serving Customers Throughout the COVID-19 Crisis

Bill-payment extensions available for customers experiencing financial hardships

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds across the nation, Clarksdale Public Utilities remains focused on working out payment extensions for customers who are experiencing financial hardships — a situation that is expected to become more widespread in coming months.

At their March 24 meeting, members of the Clarksdale Public Utilities Commission discussed the pandemic and its potential impacts on CPU customers and the local community. In addition to continuing CPU’s payment-extension policy, commissioners agreed to suspend service disconnections until the next CPUC meeting on April 7 for customers experiencing hardships related to the COVID-19 crisis.

“It has always been CPU’s policy to work individually with customers experiencing financial difficulties to help them keep their accounts current,” said CPU General Manager Curtis D. Boschert. “In fact, we provide payment extensions up to 10 times a year per customer. Our extension policy is especially critical as we continue weathering the health and financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“We recognize this is a time of stress and uncertainty, and that the services CPU provides are essential in the daily lives of our customers and the community,” he added. “We want to assure our customers that we will uphold our payment-extension policies and work with them on an individual basis to keep their accounts current.”

As part of COVID-19 precautions, CPU is urging customers to avoid visiting CPU’s office to pay bills and instead use other convenient payment options that comply with social-distancing guidelines. Customers may pay bills using the kiosk and drop box located next to CPU’s building at 416 Third Street.

Those who pay bills via CPU’s online portal, mobile app, phone system or bank draft, or who mail their payments to CPU, are encouraged to continue using those methods.

“Keeping our employees and customers safe during the COVID-19 crisis is our top priority,” Boschert said. “CPU’s office will be open during normal business hours; however, we encourage customers to pay using remote methods, if possible, until further notice.”

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.