10/20/1992 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Director Pinto emphasized that he hoped the Board would understand the Utilities Department's position - to collect the money in the fastest way possible - and that all staff is doing now is asking the Board for permission to use whatever methods that are within the ordinances to get the money. Commissioner Scurlock asked whether, in terms of cash flow, the Utilities Department could do interim borrowing to cover cash flow until the money has been collected. He felt sure the money could be borrowed at an interest rate of less than 18%. Director Pinto explained that he was not saying the Utilities Department cannot afford to continue to operate, but that this may be an expense to the other customers. Commissioner Scurlock cautioned that the rates charged to the other customers should not be raised to pay for water used by people who will not pay, and that with 18% interest charges, it is not necessary to pass anything on to other customers. Director Pinto explained that staff is only asking the Board today for permission to use whatever methods that are within the ordinances to collect the money as quickly as possible. He added that he was concerned that the Court would say that because the County had the option to shut off the water and did not, the money would not be awarded to the County. Commissioner Scurlock emphasized that the Board was not going to turn off water service to 400 people. MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Scurlock, SECONDED by Commissioner Tippin, to go ahead and file the lien, pursue the mediation, and pursue the remedies that are available to try to bring this to a conclusion. Under discussion, Attorney Vitunac requested that the Board clarify whether a lien should be filed for just this month, and the Chairman clarified that continuing liens are to be filed. She added that she hopes this can be brought to a conclusion in 30 days. THE CHAIRMAN CALLED FOR THE QUESTION. It was voted on and carried unanimously. 37 CT 20199 OK V7 fr, JF� 2 W