June 2009

U.S. Water News Online

THORNTON, Colo. — The Thornton City Council has approved a one-year pilot program to help an estimated 1,000 people pay their water bills.

Residents earning less than 185 percent of the federal poverty level can apply for the program starting June 1. Under 2009 federal guidelines, a family of four earning less than $40,793 would be eligible. Qualifying applicants would receive a $225 credit on water bills.

Officials say the program will be funded by $400,000 generated through utility late fees.

The initiative is part of the Thornton Cares program that the City Council launched to help residents during the recession.