The Town of Southern Pines has approved changes to its water utility policies that remove late fees and clarify when service disconnections may occur.
During a recent meeting, the Southern Pines Town Council voted to eliminate the $6 late fee previously charged to residents who missed a water bill payment. Town officials emphasized the fee was intended to encourage timely payment, not generate revenue.
What’s Changing for Utility Customers
Town Manager Reagan Parsons said the town collected between $40,000 and $50,000 annually in late fees, but removing the fee is not expected to lead to higher water rates.
The council also updated language surrounding service disconnections. Under the new rules, water service would only be disconnected if a bill remains unpaid after the 24th of the month and the balance is at least $100.
The changes follow temporary relief measures put in place during the recent federal government shutdown.
Additional information is available through the town and via reporting from The Pilot.
