About
On-Bill Donations are voluntary, potentially recurring, donations by utility customers that they pay alongside their monthly utility bill. The funds are remitted to a foundation, charity, trust or community action agency to disburse as indicted by an ordinance, bylaw or resolution.
Some donation programs are “opt-in” programs, and others, through bylaws adoption, are “opt-out.” Cuivre River Electric has an opt-out program, and 90% of the 62,500 member customers participate in the Round Up program which has raised more than $5 million.
Typically, donations align with the mission of the stormwater program, but also positively impacts disadvantaged communities or the community as a whole (educational programs, etc.). When implementing a donation program be sure that it only supports projects or programs that are above and beyond the level-of-service the utility should be providing to all customers. The basic level-of-service should be funded by rates, fees and taxes – not donations.
Consult with your municipality’s legal counsel prior to program establishment.
Project Examples
Through a Trust, Cuivre River Electric members donate by “rounding up” on their bill. The funds are used to help families cope with emergencies, illness and medical needs; help low-income and elderly with home efficiency improvements; help schools improve educational opportunities; assist youth organizations to promote good citizenship; and aid community and emergency service providers. More Info