APOLOGY FOR STORMWATER ERROR

06.25.2010 | Download PDF

June 25, 2010

Dear Norcross Citizen,

It was with great concern that I recently learned of an administrative error that has caused many of you undue stress. The collection agency retained by the city to collect delinquent debt, recently made an unauthorized decision to contact Norcross citizens about past due storm water payments without the proper account information or consent. While the city's goal is to collect payments, we anticipated doing so in a courteous and customer-service oriented manner. We understand that sometimes payments are late for a variety of reasons, and wanted to give our citizens a gentle reminder that payment is due, and to identify a reasonable grace period within which to make payments. Unfortunately, we were not afforded the opportunity to extend that courtesy.

First, on behalf of the City of Norcross, may I apologize for the unauthorized action generated by the collection agency. Second, please be reassured that no penalties will be incurred for late payments that meet the extended deadline, and that according to the collection agency, no reports of any delinquent activity have been made to any credit bureau. We have a letter from Penn Credit Corporation verifying that no reports have been generated. For a copy of this letter, you can go to the city website at www.norcrossga.net, and find it under Community News, or you can call City Hall at 770-448-2122 and request a copy. For any additional questions regarding the erroneous effort at collections, please contact Penn Credit Corporation directly at 800-800-3328.

Moving forward please be advised that the grace period for unpaid storm water fees has been extended to July 31st, 2010. After this date, standard collection processes will be applied in a fair, professional and courteous manner. Payment by check, money order or credit card is accepted.

Please anticipate storm water bills being mailed out every year around the end of September, with payment due on November 15th. If you do not receive your bill, you should contact City Hall and request an invoice, as you are still responsible for payment. These annual fees allow the city to maintain its storm water infrastructure. Since some of Norcross' original storm water system is still in place, its age and condition requires ongoing repair and even replacement to keep local streets open, safe and navigable.

You are a valued citizen and we appreciate your patience with this unfortunate administrative issue. Please be assured the City of Norcross staff strives to operate in your best interest, and will continue to make every possible effort to serve the community in a courteous and professional manner.

Rudolph Smith

City of Norcross

City Manager