GARNETT — The Garnett City Commission recently voted to close a loophole in its utility rules that allowed a few residents to escape paying a $50 reconnection fee when they don’t pay their utility bills on time. Unless they request an extension or make alternative arrangements, city residents must pay their utility bills within 10 days after the due date or be shut off. The Anderson County Review reported that some residents play a game to avoid the disconnection fee. Garnett city attorney Terry Solander says the new rule changes the game by clarifying the rules. Some people know that the city issues a cut-off on 1 p.m. and then race to the city hall and argue with office staff that because the utilities aren’t cut off, they shouldn’t pay the reconnection fee. Solander said the change makes it clear that once the order to disconnect is made, the customer owes the $50; and not when the utilities are actually cut off.
Thursday, Feb. 2, 1 p.m.
