Redkey waiving late fees, shut offs

REDKEY — In light of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the town will not be charging late fees or shutting off residents’ utilities.

Redkey Town Council had a special phone meeting Thursday to take care of a few housekeeping issues.

Starting with April’s bills and continuing until the end of the pandemic, the town will be waiving late fees and penalties and will not be disconnecting utilities. Council will decide when to resume fines and shut-offs at a later meeting.

“Their bills will still be due,” clerk-treasurer Debbie James said. “So hopefully they don’t let it just pile up.”

Council also awarded its 2020 mowing contract to Kessler Excavating, which will charge $398 each time the town’s properties are mowed. Initially, council was going to seek other bids for mowing, but decided to revert back to Kessler after March’s meeting was canceled.

James will also be able to pay claims without council’s approval until stay-at-home orders are lifted.

The regular council meeting scheduled for April 16 has been canceled. James said council members will make a decision about the May meeting at a later date.