Resolution 20-183: Urge the PUC to extend moratorium on utility shutoffs.
****UPDATE*****
We did it! The moratorium was extended! Thank you for standing with us and taking action.
Now on to fight for bill forgiveness because the reality of this decision is that bills are going to continue pile up for residents. HECO is not losing money right now, in fact they are making millions throughout the pandemic. They should do the right thing and help their customers in need. Stay tuned!
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The Honolulu City Council is on the front lines of our response to the combined public health and economic crisis created by COVID-19 in an environment where the individuals, families, businesses, and civic organizations within their community are under extreme stress. So many are either figuring out how to pay any or all of their bills this month while others are wondering how long they will stay employed. As we all continue to adapt to this time of transition defining a new normal, one thing is clear— these unforeseen challenges communities are experiencing cannot afford another unnecessary economic burden. HECO can and should do better.
Resolution 20-183 is a much needed ask to the the Public Utilities Commission and Hawaiian Electric to extend the moratorium on electric shutoffs due to non-payment beyond September 1.
Take action!
Submit testimony in support of Resolution 20-183!
Name:
Phone:
Email:
Meeting Date: August 12, 2020
Council/PH Committee: Council/Public Hearing
Agenda Item: Resolution 20-183
Your position on the matter: support
Do you wish to speak at the hearing?: Sierra Club Oʻahu Group does not advise speaking in person but there is virtual remote testimony that you can sign up for! Further instructions below*
Sample Testimony:
Aloha Chair Anderson and Members of the Honolulu City Council,
My name is ________ and I reside in council district ______ and am in strong support of Resolution 20-183. As you already know, residents and communities are suffering right now. With federal unemployment ending, COVID-19 cases spiking, and school schedules uncertain, making ends meet is becoming more and more challenging. Hawaiian Electric is offering payment plans, but these plans require ratepayers to pay their current bills in full, on time in addition to a portion of their unpaid bills. HECO is a multi-billion dollar company and can afford to help in this time of desperate need.
Please pass this resolution to push for the PUC to stand up to HECO and ask them to do better for their customers.
I strongly support this resolution to prioritize residents needs, please pass it!
Sincerely,
Your name
[Insert council district]
*Interested in registering for virtual testimony?
To participate, visit www.webex.com click “Join,” enter meeting number 1465040456, and complete the registration process. Registrants will receive an email that contains links and information on joining the meeting by either phone or video conference. Remote testifiers are strongly encouraged to register at least 24 hours before the start of the meeting.
Remote testimony on all agenda items will be taken at the start of the agenda and then closed for the rest of the hearing.