Department of Finance - Division of Procurement & Contracts
Reference: An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Brighton, Colorado, Repealing Ordinance 2175 in its Entirety; Establishing the Brighton Customer Assistance Program to replace existing program known as Good Neighbor; Authorizing the Finance Department to continue to accept voluntary “round-up” contributions to such Program; Authorizing the City to accept additional contributions towards the Program; Authorizing the City Manager to establish Policies and Procedures for such Program; and Authorizing the City Manager to enter into an Agreement for Administration of such Program
To: Mayor Kenneth J. Kreutzer and Members of City Council
Through: Philip A. Rodriguez, City Manager
Prepared By: Ronald W. Lay, Director of Finance; JD McCune, UCS Supervisor
Date Prepared: 03/26/2019
PURPOSE
Staff is requesting City Council approval to create a new Customer Assistance Program (CAP), and end the previously established Good Neighbor Assistance Program, by partnering with a local non-profit that specializes in financial planning/assistance. The CAP is an opportunity for residential customers to receive temporary assistance in times of financial hardship. This new partnership will ensure that residential customers not only receive that temporary assistance, but also be provided long-term financial planning education. The new CAP will prioritize our customers, increase efficiencies, and create positive outcomes for the organization and the community.
STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA
Financially Responsible
Strong Regional Relationships and Partnerships
BACKGROUND
In 2014, City Council directed staff to develop a voluntary “round-up program” to assist families and individuals who have a temporary and urgent financial issue preventing them from paying their Brighton utility bill. This program was called the Good Neighbor Assistance Program (GNAP) and was approved via Ordinance No. 2175. The new CAP will necessitate bringing closure to the GNAP.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The 2019 CAP will be funded with a blend of existing General Fund and “round-up” amounts available. No additional budget actions from Council are requested in relation to this Program. For FY 2020 and beyond, the City will continue to utilize “round-up” donations, any additional donations as well as identify gap funding for the CAP during the annual budget process.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval and adoption of the attached Ordinance.
OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
• Approve Ordinance establishing the new CAP as presented
• Direct staff to consider an alternative assistance program
• Direct staff to not provide a utilities assistance program at this time
ATTACHMENTS
Presentation for Council April 2, 2019
Ordinance No. 2175 (original authority)
CAP Partner Guidelines
Updated Ordinance