The Demorest City Council approved an 18% water rate increase at Tuesday evening’s regular council meeting. The increase comes on the heels of a water and sewer cash flow and rate analysis study completed by Engineering Management, Inc. (EMI) in December.
Currently, the average outside-city residential water bill is $43.90. The average outside residential water bill will increase to $51.80.
Mayor Jerry Harkness said the council had been discussing this matter for months, and they knew this day was coming.
“I don’t think anybody wants to go forward on going up on anything but costs – everything – has risen so much. We can no longer keep it where it’s at.”
The EMI study revealed that in Fiscal Year 2022, the city experienced a decrease in water and sewer revenues, resulting in an overall water and sewer fund deficit. EMI did an annualized study for FY 2023 through last October, and determined the city will again likely face a deficit in its water and sewer fund.
Demorest city leaders addressed this issue last year by raising water rates by 10%. However, the city did not raise sewer rates or change the rate structure. The recently approved FY 2024 budget for the water and sewer fund will result in a net negative balance, officials say.
According to EMI, Demorest is running deficits “because expenses have been increasing much faster than the rates are being adjusted.”
In addition to the water and sewer fund balance deficits, the city is also experiencing issues with meeting its debt service coverage ratio (DSCR).
The DSCR measures the city’s available cash flow to pay current debt obligations beyond operation and maintenance expenses. Demorest hasn’t met its DSCR since 2021. Continued failure to do so may result in financial repercussions and lower the city’s borrowing power in the future.
Paying your monthly water bill is easy and convenient with the City of Demorest in Georgia. The city offers online payments, phone payments, mail-in options, and in-person services to handle utility bills. This comprehensive guide explains the various methods Demorest residents and businesses can use to pay water bills on time.
Online Payments
The fastest way to pay in Demorest is through the online payment portal at demorestga.municipalonlinepayments.com. Homeowners and business owners can login 24/7 to view balances, make one-time payments, or set up recurring auto-pay.
To use the online system, first create an account with your email, account number, and property details The portal allows paying by credit card, debit card, or electronic check. A small convenience fee applies to card payments
Through the online portal customers can also opt-in to paperless billing to receive water bills electronically via email. This allows easy access to current and past statements.
Phone Payments
For those who prefer paying by phone, Demorest offers a simple automated payment system. Call 706-778-4202 and follow the prompts to enter your account number and payment details.
The automated system is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It accepts payment by credit card, debit card, or electronic check. Convenience fees apply.
Mail-In Payments
Customers can also mail in a check or money order to pay their city water bill. Make checks payable to City of Demorest and mail to:
City of Demorest
546 Georgia Street
Demorest, GA 30535
Be sure to include your account number on the check or stub. Allow 7-10 business days for mailed payments to process.
In-Person Payments
To pay a water bill in-person with cash, check, or card, visit Demorest City Hall located at 546 Georgia Street. The utility billing office is open Monday-Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Bring your printed bill or know your account number when paying at the office. In-person payments allow resolving any account issues directly with customer service staff.
Payment Assistance Programs
Demorest offers assistance programs for customers facing financial hardship:
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Payment arrangements – Set up a monthly installment plan for past due balances.
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Limited income discounts – Reduced rates for qualifying limited income households.
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Senior citizen discounts – Reduced rates for customers aged 65+.
Inquire about these money-saving programs by calling the utility office. Providing necessary documentation to verify eligibility is required.
Avoid Late Fees
Water bills in Demorest are due by the 15th of each month. A 10% late penalty applies to past due accounts. Failure to pay after multiple notices may result in water service disconnection.
Avoid late fees and possible shut-offs by paying bills on time. The city recommends signing up for paperless e-bills to receive reminders about upcoming due dates.
New Service, Changes, and Termination
Notify the City of Demorest utility billing office for any service changes:
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To start new water service when moving in, a service application is required.
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Contact the city before moving out to terminate service and close your account.
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Email or call to update contact details or request a final bill when moving.
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Report any leaks, damages, or other service issues requiring repair.
Reaching the billing office at 706-778-4202 ensures proper handling of your account during moves or service needs.
Paying water bills in Demorest is quick and easy through the city’s online portal, phone system, mail, or in-person. Multiple payment options fit every lifestyle and preference. Sign up for e-bills and recurring payments to simplify managing utility bills each month. Take advantage of money-saving programs and repairs assistance for extra support. Keep your Demorest water flowing by staying on top of payments and utility account management.
Help Paying Your Water Bill Campaign
FAQ
What is Demorest, Georgia known for?
Where do I pay my water bill in Laurel Mississippi?
Who is Demorest Water Works Department?
Welcome to Demorest Water Works Department. We are located at 251 Habersham Mills Road. We are responsible for the management, operation, and maintenance of the City water system. and mailed or returned to the City Hall office at the address below. A deposit of $100.00 will be required when the application is completed along with a photo ID.
How long does a Demorest water service take?
Luckily, Demorest has made it pretty simple with the following online form. Starting service generally takes just two business days. Click here to fill out a Start Service Form. When you move out of a home in Demorest, you’ll need to stop your water service with the Demorest Water, so you don’t keep getting billed.
Does Demorest water have a water quality report?
Under the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act, the EPA requires Demorest Water to assess local water quality each year and distribute a Consumer Confidence Water Quality Report. At WaterZen, we review these reports and make the information available, in a concise, straightforward, and easy-to-understand way.
How did Demorest get its name?
Demorest was founded in 1889 as a private endeavor of the Demorest Home, Mining & Improvement Company. It is named for William Jennings Demorest, an internationally known alcohol prohibition leader. A church bell honors his name and lifetime achievements. The city became a public entity in 1917.
