What the Grand Jury, in a recent report, called “out of step” billing practices, is getting a response from NID officials. The report cites the three-dollar-and-seventy-five-cent fee for customers paying their bills with credit cards. Water Operations Manager Chip Close says the company Paymentus was selected in processing credit card data as a no cost option for the district. The company also did not escalate costs for customers who did not use the service and it will not increase staff time, among other benefits. He says Paymentus has offered to provide a “bulk” discount to the district if it wishes to absorb the fees. But he says there might be legal problems…

click to listen to Chip Close

Prior to the report, Close says staff had begun talks with Paymentus regarding a change in the fees. But the company said it’s not allowed to, under Visa Merchant Guidelines. Other payment options continue to be explored…

click to listen to Chip Close

Close says the district also agrees with the Grand Jury to formalize a consumer complaint system. The Board of Directors may approve a formal response at its next meeting.