Inside GEBE’s new cashiers’ area.
~ Disconnections from Feb. 15 for defaulters ~
PHILIPSBURG--Utilities company GEBE said that after months of suspending disconnection of its electricity and water services, the company will be resuming its monthly standard course of action to collect outstanding funds.
GEBE halted the disconnection of services during the early part of 2020, and several times after, to allow financial recovery of its customers who were experiencing economic difficulties due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Interim Managing Director Dr. Sharine Daniel said this is an issue where there are no easy answers and disconnection is always a last resort. She added that a two-month window of opportunity to enter into a payment arrangement for outstanding bills had been granted to customers last year and GEBE had honoured each request.
“We fully recognise that the pandemic continues to be a time of hardship for many of us. However, there are many customers who have not made any attempt to take advantage of the opportunity to set up a payment plan or to make any payments.”
Presently, the GEBE’s receivables have increased significantly and although GEBE understands the financial hardship the community is experiencing, all effort must be made to collect the funds, it was stated in a press release on Tuesday. “Our Customer Care staff continues to make calls to persons in arrears, but payments nor a commitment to pay are forthcoming.”
Daniel said, “Customers are urged to settle their past-due balances, as this is our final notice and those that do not comply will face disconnection starting February 15, 2021.”
