LAPLACE – On Monday, St. John the Baptist Parish announced that the Utilities Department will begin disconnecting water customers in Cycle 1 (Reserve) with delinquent accounts of 180 days or more beginning August 1.

The parish had stopped disconnecting water bills due to irregularities in billing, “but constitutionally, a public entity has no authority to set-aside, reduce, or otherwise forgive a debt owed to the public entity absent any error on the part of the public entity, including water,” according to a relase.

Customers in Cycle 1 should received automated calls with information regarding disconnect crews delivering door hangers to customers with delinquent accounts. Customers will have five business days to pay delinquent bills or arrange a payment plan before being disconnected.

Full payment and a $50 reconnect fee will be required to reconnect services.

This process will continue through out the parish for accounts past due for 180 days or more moving toward accounts past due for 30 or more days.

“Water customers are encouraged to make sure their accounts are current, but if you receive a disconnect door hanger, please pay your bill or set up a meeting with Utility Billing clerks within 5 business days to avoid being disconnected,” said Chief Financial Officer, Robert Figuero. “We’re doing our due diligence to inform people that the disconnect procedure will begin and we need everyone to comply.”

More information about the process can be found on the parish website at sjbparish.com or call Utility Billing at 985-652-9569.