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LAPLACE — In an effort to promote social distancing and flatten the curve of COVID-19 spread, St. John the Baptist Parish will waive all late fees incurred during the COVID-19 emergency declaration, effective immediately.

Fees will also be waived for any customer who wishes to pay online. A drop box for water bill payments is also located in the St. John Government Complex parking lot in LaPlace and on the door at the Garyville Service Center.

In St. Charles Parish, Parish President Matthew Jewell has directed the Water Department to reinstate service to homes that have been disconnected in recent days to encourage residents to wash their hands. No service will be disconnected due to non-payment in St. Charles Parish until further notice. However, residents will continue to be responsible for water usage as well as sewerage and trash services. Payment arrangement plans will be available on a case-by-case basis when the need arises.

Entergy Louisiana is also taking steps to help customers in the River Parishes and beyond through challenging and uncertain times. Effective March 13, Entergy Louisiana has suspended electric and natural gas service disconnections for a minimum of 30 days.

Customers are still encouraged to make payments on their account if possible, and Entergy will be working directly with customers to make payment arrangements when needed. Customers requiring such arrangements should call 1-800-ENTERGY (800-368-3749).

Payments can be directed online without a fee at entergy.com/payonline, by phone with a $2.95 fee at 800-584-1241 or by mail to Entergy Louisiana, P.O. Box 8108, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70891.

“In our 100 years of serving our customers, we have faced many challenges together, but we have never wavered in our commitment to do everything we can to support our customers and the communities we serve,” said Entergy Louisiana President and CEO Phillip May. “This pandemic is no different. Entergy Louisiana will be there to keep the lights on and our future bright.”

Entergy Louisiana reminds the public to be aware of scammers. Entergy representatives will never demand immediate payment over the phone. If a call sounds suspicious, hang up and call 1-800-368-3749 to speak with a customer service representative.

— Brooke Robichaux contributed to this report