City of Columbus Water Utility Bills
Earlier this week Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced plans to assist furloughed federal workers with utility bills relieving penalties and potential loss of basic services like water during the government shutdown. As the water utility provider to the City of Dublin, the City of Columbus Department of Public Utilities is extending the assistance to federal employees residing in Dublin who are unable to pay their own water bills.
Eligible federal employees will make minimal monthly payments until the shutdown is over. To begin the process, furloughed employees should call 614-645-8276 or visit the walk-in payment office at 111 N. Front Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43215. They should bring proof of employment, such as a pay stub or an employee identification badge.
Dublin Community Resources
Dublin Community Recreation Center
The City of Dublin is committed to providing the benefits of recreation to all of its residents. To assist federal employees affected by the government shutdown, the City is offering reduced pricing for Dublin Community Recreation Center admission and programs.
Present your federal ID and notice of furlough at the front desk to receive the following assistance:
- Daily fees waived
- Financial assistance for programs per the City’s Parks & Recreation Financial Assistance Program (must present proof of financial hardship per the policy)
For questions contact 614.410.4550.
Federal Employee Assistance Resources
Ohio Federal Employees Impacted by Shutdown (OFEI) HOTLINE
1-833-876-0937
- Representatives Steve Stivers (R-OH), Joyce Beatty (D-OH), and Troy Balderson (R-OH) have established the Ohio Federal Employees Impacted by Shutdown (OFIS) Hotline for those federal workers, both furloughed and deemed essential, as well as contracted, who are impacted by the current government shutdown. Those who call the hotline are able to receive the following information:
- How to speak formally with financial institutions
- Area businesses offering assistance to these employees (meals, deals, etc.)
- Franklin County Treasurer has agreed to work with any one on their property tax bills, and
- The City of Columbus is willing/able to work with individuals on utility bill payments.
Assistance for Veterans Impacted by Government Shutdown
The Franklin County Veterans Service Commission (VSC) is reaching out to veterans in Franklin County who may be impacted by the current government shutdown. VSC has an established financial aid program which may be able to assist veterans in meeting monthly bills such as rent, mortgage, utilities and nutritional needs.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- be a veteran with some active duty time other than initial training (basic training) and have an honorable or general under honorable conditions discharge
- be a Franklin County resident for at least 90 consecutive days
- be in an immediate or emergency financial situation
Any veteran impacted by the shutdown is invited to visit the VSC’s downtown office located at 280 E. Broad St. on Tuesday, January 22 or Tuesday, January 29 for extended office hours from 4-8 pm to meet with staff to determine eligibility and apply for support. Veterans may also visit the VSC office during normal business hours – Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 7:30 am-4 pm and Tuesday from 12:30-4pm.
Click here for a list of items that a furloughed employee needs to apply for financial assistance
